How to Read a Watt Meter Mechanically
There are two types of electric meters that are used by utility companies; one is the mechanical meter and the other is the digital meter. Over the next few years most mechanical meters, also known as analog meters,will be replaced with digital meters. There are two reasons for this change. First, the digital meter is more accurate. Second, the digital meter transmits its reading to the utility company, thus saving on labor costs for meter readers and eliminating estimated bills. Digital meters are physically read once per year to make sure they are accurate and operating properly. Nevertheless, there are still millions of analog meters in use today. Knowing how to read the meter allows a customer to make sure that the bill is accurate.
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Instructions
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How To Read A Mechanical Electric Meter
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Read the meter dials, in order, from right to left. If the dial pointer is between two numbers, say 8 and 9, record the lowest number.The exception to this is if the pointer is between 9 and 0. If this is the case, record the 9.
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Write the numbers down in left to right format. For example, if your dial readings from right to left are 85246, record it as 64258.
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Subtract the previous reading from the current reading and multiply the difference by the meter multiplier, if you have one. It is found on meters when the monthly or bi-monthly use is more than the meter can record. It is usually 10.
Following is a calculation without needing a multiplier
Current: 64258 minus Prior: 61584 = 2,674 kWh (Kilowatt Hours)
Below is an example using a multiplier
Current: 6425 minus Prior: 6158 = 267 kWh multiplied by 10 = 2,670 kWh
You now have the information needed to track your electric usage and check the utility's billing.
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- Photo Credit electric meter image by palms from Fotolia.com
