Meters. Radio Teleswitch Meters

What are Radio Teleswitch Meters?

Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) Meters are controlled by an inbuilt radio which uses signal received through Longwave radio broadcast. It uses the same radio frequency used for delivering radio programming,

There are just over 900,000 RTS meters in Great Britain. RTS is used for some traditional multi-rate meters and was designed to support those who use electricity for their heating and hot water. This may include those who use electric storage systems, panel heaters or immersion heaters in water tanks – some of which typically charge up overnight.

RTS allows energy suppliers to offer different tariff rates; so that consumers can make use of cheaper off-peak tariffs to charge their heating and/or hot water systems up overnight.

What’s happening to Radio Teleswitch meters?

RTS was introduced in the 1980s, and is now reaching the end of its natural operational life. This means that the equipment that produces the radio signal can’t be adequately maintained anymore and therefore the British radio public service provider has announced plans to migrate unique Longwave content to other broadcasting platforms.

This means that the meters will lose their ability to switch between day and night rates, which may impact heating or hot water systems because your meter might get stuck on the last schedule it used. We want to avoid this ever happening so its really important to get your meter replaced as soon as possible.

The switch off is happening all across the UK. It affects everyone with this type of meter, no matter who supplies your energy. Ofgem, the energy regulator for Great Britain, expects all energy suppliers to replace all RTS meters by time the Radio Teleswitch signal is turned off

The great news is that smart meters enable customers to be able to still use day and night rates as before.

Will the new meter be a smart meter?

Yes it will be – this is because smart meters make a good alternative to RTS meters as they have their own communication network that can do the same job as the RTS signal. We also don't install traditional meters because manufacturers aren't making them anymore.

Smart meters come with loads of great benefits. They send your readings automatically, give you more accurate bills, and let you unlock exclusive rewards. You can even see your energy use in real time – helping you find ways to save.

What will happen to my off-peak hours when I get a new meter?

There might be a difference of 30 minutes or less to your peak and off-peak hours. For example, if your off-peak hours are 00:15-07:15 they could change to 00:45- 07:45. Your off-peak hours usually depend on the area you live in.

Will my off-peak hours change during British Summer Time?

No, they stay the same throughout the year.

Will I be able to stay on the same tariff I am on now?

Don’t worry, you’ll stay on the same tariff as you are now. If you’d like to change tariff please contact us for more information.

What do I need to do next?

We are contacting our Radio Teleswitch customers to offer them a smart meter installation appointment. If you haven’t already booked in your appointment you can do so by booking online or calling us on 0330 332 0098.

We can't guarantee a timely appointment if you wait until the last minute to book your smart meter installation and you may find yourself waiting longer than usual for an appointment.