Smart Meters
Smart meters are digital devices that record your electricity usage and send the usage data to us electronically.
Basic meters vs Smart meters
Before smart meters were available all meters were called Basic Meters. Basic Meters measure your usage from one point in time to another. Smart meters replace the traditional method of meter reads, where a meter reader would physically visit your property to read your electricity meter. Smart meters automatically record your energy usage at short time intervals (5 minutes, 15 minutes or 30 minutes) depending on your meter configuration and will send your usage data to Lumo daily.
Benefits of smart meters
In the past, if a meter reader was unable to access your electricity meter (maybe because of a dog or a locked gate) your electricity reads were estimated. Having a smart meter solves this, because the smart meter records your usage and sends it through automatically.
The Lumo Energy app gives you access to your usage data and bills to help you understand when and how you use energy. You can also request your historical billed data by contacting us.
Smart Meter Bill and Meter Read Index
Smart meters are designed to give you (and us) more detailed and accurate information about energy consumption.
You may have noticed that you have a ‘Meter Index Read’ on your electricity bill after you have a smart meter installed at your property.
An Index read is the physical reading on the smart meter at a point in time. Your bills are based upon the interval meter data. The index readings show the total energy recorded at the meter since installation and are generally used as a guide only. The Meter Read Index sometimes resets to zero. This can occur when solar panels are installed and the smart meter is reconfigured or if an existing smart meter is replaced/exchanged.
More information about your bill can be found here.
Choose to receive your bill monthly
With a smart meter, you no longer have to wait months for a meter reading. A smart meter gives you the option of monthly billing. This can be a great way to budget and manage your finances. To go onto monthly billing please contact us or call us on 1300 115 866.
Victoria
If you’re in Victoria and are experiencing issues with your smart meter, contact your local energy distributor. To find out who your electricity distributor is click here.
South Australia
In December 2017, new metering rules came into effect in South Australia. Electricity distributors were no longer responsible for maintaining meters and energy retailers took over. This means if you need a meter installed or have to replace your old one, Lumo can take care of you - call us on 1800 931 689 to get started.
If you already have a smart meter, our partnered metering service providers will be responsible for its testing, maintenance and security.
Do I have a smart meter?
There are many different types and models of smart meters. If your electricity meter has a digital display and no dial, then it’s likely a smart meter.
When you have to get a smart meter
If your basic meter needs replacing or you need a new meter installed, it will be exchanged to a smart meter. We will let you know when your meter is too old and/or needs replacing and provide an expected date and time for the meter exchange to take place. You don’t need to be home for us to change over your meter, just make sure any sensitive electronic equipment is switched off at the power point as the power will need to be off for around an hour in most cases.
You’re in safe hands
We’re working with smart meter experts to help us organise the removal of your old meter and the installation of your new smart meter. We have been working closely with our partners to make sure you get the same level of service from them as you do from anyone at Lumo.
At no time will any of our technicians ask you for any sort of direct payment, payment details or your identification.
Remote connectivity
In South Australia, the technology in your meter that allows for reads to be sent to your energy company can be turned off. Keep in mind, doing this would mean a technician will have to read your meter manually. The cost of the technician visiting your property will be added as an extra charge on your electricity account.
Talk to us about Smart Meters
Have a question about Smart Meters in South Australia, then contact us