If you want to monitor your electricity usage to be more mindful and save some money, you're going to need to learn a bit about your meter. This device records how much power you use over time, but you don't need to be an electrician to know how it works and how to read it. Review the guide below to become an expert and start lowering your monthly electric bills.

How Electric Meters Work

Electric meters show how much power you're using for each appliance or fixture. Most are either digital, analog, or smart. Whereas analog meters rely on magnetic fields to move dials and track electricity, digital and smart devices rely on sensors to detect voltage.

Everything in your home that relies on electricity is tracked. Whenever your electrician installs lighting, appliances, or other equipment, they send the circuits through your electrical panel, connecting them to the meter.

Electric meters gauge usage in kilowatt-hours (kWh), and your bills are typically based on cost per unit, with one kWh equalling one unit. The electric company takes the reading and multiplies it by their unit costs, adding additional fees for their services.

How to Read One

For analog meters, you'll notice five dials that indicate a number, which represents how much energy your household is using. If the dial sits between two numbers, the reading is based on the lower one. When a dial sits directly over a number, use it only if the dial to the right of it has passed zero.

If your property relies on a digital or smart meter, the reading is a little easier. Take note of the first five numbers and use those to calculate your power usage.

Subtract the reading on your last utility bill from your current reading to determine how much electricity you used this month. Once you have this figure, you can estimate how much you'll be charged based on your electrical company’s cost per unit.

If you need professional help managing your electrical usage, contact Zelek Electric Co. in Old Lyme, CT. With more than 40 years of experience, this family-owned company provides general electrical services and generator options for residential and commercial customers. Call (860) 434-9726 to speak with an electrician 24-hours a day, or visit them online for more information on their offerings.