The system supporting a Radio Teleswitch Service, or RTS, meter is being phased out. These meters have traditionally controlled off-peak electricity tariffs and timed appliances like storage heaters, but the tech behind them is now really outdated and so they are no longer required.
How to tell if an RTS meter affects your home
Some households aren’t really sure whether they have an RTS meter, but homes with electric heating, Economy 7 or Economy 10 tariffs, or older storage heaters, are the most likely to be affected.
Don’t worry about that though, as suppliers should identify an affected property and contact the account holder before the planned switch-off and arrange a replacement appointment. The change itself is free, so if anyone gets in touch requesting payment, contact your energy supplier directly straight away.
What happens during the replacement?
In most cases, the old equipment will be replaced with a smart meter or another suitable alternative. The aim is to ensure heating systems and off-peak tariffs work correctly after the RTS signal ends. Although some customers may need to discuss tariff options with their supplier, the replacement is intended to minimise disruption.
It’s also worth checking the condition of the electric meter box to see if it’s become damaged through age or weather exposure, and replace it with something like this //www.meterbox.co.uk/electric-meter-boxes if that’s the case.
The most important step, though, is simply responding when an energy supplier gets in touch, so you can ensure your electricity supply continues uninterrupted while you’re moving away from that old technology.
