Have you ever received an electricity bill and questioned the authenticity of its details? If you know what the readings say, you can avoid unnecessary surprises and manage your bills in a very accurate manner.
Having issues paying your electricity bill? You can also visit pescobill.com.pk for the latest updates.
What is a digital electric meter?
A digital electric meter in Pakistan is an electronic device that shows the amount of electricity consumed in kilowatt-hours. It is usually installed outside the home or office.
What Is the Benefit of Checking the Meter Reading?
- You will know whether your bill is being generated correctly or not.
- If the meter reader has written a wrong reading, you can complain and get the bill corrected.
Types of Digital Meters in Pakistan
1. Single-Phase Meters
- Generally installed in homes
- Show a single reading—total electricity usage
2. Three-Phase Meters
- For homes or businesses with high load
- Show separate readings for each phase (L1, L2, L3)
3. Smart Meters
- Currently installed in some cities
- These meters automatically send your data to the company
- Your service provider will not need to come to your place and can get all the information he needs remotely.
How Does a Digital Meter Work?
- This meter continuously counts how much electricity you have used (in kWh)
- The number that appears on the screen is your total usage
Analog vs. Digital Meter
| Feature | Analog Meter | Digital Meter |
|---|---|---|
| Display Type | Rotating dials | Digital screen |
| Readability | Difficult to read | Easy and clear |
Benefits of Monitoring Meter Readings
- Avoid overbilling: You can catch the wrong reading.
- Fault detection: Usage increased suddenly? Maybe an appliance is consuming more power.
- Regulation of electricity usage: If it is known, appliance usage can also be regulated.
Step-by-Step: How to Check Meter Readings
- Find the meter: It should usually be outside on the building wall or beside the master electric panel.
- Understand the display: i.e., the digit highlighted and followed by kWh is the total usage.
- Note the reading: Write down the number that is shown. If you want, you can also take a photo
How to Read a Single-Phase Meter
- The number shown on the digital screen is the total usage
- Example:
If last month’s reading was 5,400 kWh and now it is 5,850 kWh, you used 450 units
How to Read a Three-Phase Meter
- Separate readings of L1, L2, L3 are shown on the screen
- Some meters show the total of two units, in some you have to add
- Always check the meter sticker or manual
How to Read a Smart Meter
From Mobile App
- Download the official app of the electric company
- Register and log in to see readings and usage
From Online Portal
- Every DISCO (Distribution Company) has an online portal
- Go to the provider’s webpage and log in with customer ID to view reading history and consumption patterns alongside service fees.
Common Mistakes in Meter Reading
- Reading wrong number: There can be confusion between 0 and 8
- Ignoring decimal: It is important to write the complete reading
- Not noting the date: Always write the method of taking the reading
How Many Times Should the Meter Reading Be Checked?
| Usage Type | Recommended Frequency |
|---|---|
| Home | Once a month |
| Business/High Usage | Once a week |
If Bill and Meter Reading Do Not Match?
- Contact the Electric Company
- Send a photo of your current reading and meter
- File a complaint:
- Fill an online form
- File complaints online or visit nearby offices.
How to Submit Your Reading Yourself?
Some companies accept self-submitted readings:
- By sending an SMS
- Through the official mobile app
- Through an online portal
👉 Confirm with your electric company if this option is available.
Tips to Reduce Electricity Bill
- Use LED bulbs
- Unplug chargers and devices when not in use
- Run AC at 26°C
- Run heavy appliances (washer, etc.) during off-peak hours
- Inform family members to turn off lights/fans on leaving a room
Also read this: Top 10 Ways to Reduce Electricity Bill in Pakistan
Conclusion
It’s simple to read your electronic electric meter. In just a few minutes, you see clearly how much electricity you’ve consumed—and you’re in charge of your bill.
Electricity is getting expensive, so doing a little bit of activity is a good idea!