British Gas Smart Meter Warning: Avoid a Bill Shock!
British Gas has issued an urgent warning to thousands of customers about their older electricity meters, called Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) meters. If you're one of the 12,000 affected, you need to act fast to avoid a potentially huge increase in your energy bills.
The problem? British Gas, along with other energy suppliers, is switching off the RTS signal on June 30th, 2025. This means your old meter will stop working correctly, leaving you with higher bills and potentially no hot water or heating.
What is an RTS Meter, and Why is it Being Switched Off?
RTS meters, common since the 1980s, use radio signals to switch between cheaper night-time electricity rates (like Economy 7 or Economy 10) and more expensive daytime rates. They're often found in homes with electric heating systems. However, the technology is outdated, and the signal is being shut down for good.
If you have an RTS meter, there might be a small switchbox near your meter labeled "Radio Teleswitch." You might also have a special tariff like Economy 7, Economy 10, Comfort Plus, or Total Heat Total Control.
The British Gas Warning: What You Need to Do
British Gas is urging its 12,000 remaining RTS meter customers to upgrade to a smart meter before the June 30th deadline. This upgrade is free and will prevent your heating and hot water from failing and ensure your electricity billing remains accurate. If you don’t upgrade, your meter could get stuck on peak-time rates, dramatically increasing your bills.
The company previously managed 61,000 RTS meters, showing the scale of this significant update for consumers. The effort to switch out these legacy meters is industry-wide; other major suppliers, like Octopus Energy, E.ON Next, and EDF, are also facing similar deadlines. Ofgem, the UK's energy regulator, states that approximately 415,000 RTS meters across all suppliers still need replacing, highlighting the urgency.
What are Smart Meters, and What are the Benefits?
Smart meters offer a modern replacement for RTS meters. They send readings directly to your energy supplier, providing more accurate bills and giving you real-time data on your energy usage. This helps you monitor your consumption and potentially lower your bills. Smart meters are digitally connected, eliminating the reliance on the soon-to-be-obsolete RTS signal.
What Happens If You Don't Upgrade?
Failing to upgrade your RTS meter by June 30th, 2025, could result in several serious problems:
- Higher bills: Your meter may stay locked on peak electricity rates.
- Heating and hot water disruption: Your systems may stop working entirely.
- Limited tariff choices: You may have fewer tariff options available.
How to Check if You Have an RTS Meter and What to Do Next
If you're unsure whether you have an RTS meter, check near your electricity meter for a box labeled "Radio Teleswitch." If you have an RTS meter or are unsure, contact British Gas immediately to arrange a free smart meter installation. Don't wait until it's too late – schedule your upgrade today.
The same advice applies for other energy providers. If you are unsure what type of meter you have, contact your energy supplier directly. Early action is crucial to avoid potential disruptions and cost increases.
Conclusion
The British Gas smart meter warning is a critical reminder to act quickly. Don’t let outdated technology leave you facing higher energy bills and potential disruption to your heating and hot water. Contact your energy supplier today to ensure a smooth transition to a smart meter before the June 30th, 2025 deadline.
