A digital electric meter measures the amount of electricity your home is using so the power company knows how many kilowatts you’ve used. Years ago, we had manual meters with a dial that spun around, counting the kilowatts. Now that BGE and Pepco have upgraded all the electrical meters to digital, you can have real-time readings of your usage. This can help you find out what time of day you’re using more electricity and figure out what is running during that time. You can then adjust that appliance to help lower your electricity usage.
JUMP TO: Common Errors | Higher Electric Bills | Do I Need Repairs | Who is Responsible for Repairs
What Are The Common Errors That Occur In An Energy Meter In Maryland?
Digital electric meter problems in Maryland are rare, but when they do occur, they typically involve the malfunction of the meter itself. For example, we’ve received numerous calls from residents where the meter was damaged or faulty, resulting in only partial power being transferred through the meter into your home’s electrical system. This is one of the most common issues we encounter with electric meters.
While you might wonder if electric meters near you can go bad, the answer is yes, but it is not common. If your electric meter is off or reading incorrectly, the problem is often due to a power outage in your area or an isolated issue specific to your home. Sometimes, the wiring or connection from the utility to your meter may become disconnected or damaged, which would prevent the electric meter from functioning properly.
In other cases, the issue could be related to billing or account management. For instance, if you have an overdue bill, the power company may shut off your electricity supply. Before doing so, they will typically send several notifications warning you about the impending disconnection.
Common digital electric meter problems in Maryland include faulty readings, malfunctioning displays, and issues related to wiring and connection problems. If your digital meter is malfunctioning, it’s essential to diagnose the issue promptly. A technician can calibrate or repair the meter, ensuring that your electricity readings are accurate and reliable.
Key Considerations for Electric Meter Issues in Maryland Near You:
- Meter malfunctions can cause inaccurate readings or billing discrepancies.
- Power outages or disconnection of service may affect the functionality of the meter.
- Faulty wiring or damaged connections may result in a lack of power transfer to your home.
How to Troubleshoot and Resolve Meter Problems:
- Check for external issues: Ensure that the wires and connections from the utility company to your meter are intact and undamaged.
- Report the issue: If there are no visible problems, it’s crucial to report the issue to your electricity provider. They can diagnose the problem, inspect the meter, and determine if repair or replacement is necessary.
- Monitor your meter: If you notice discrepancies in your bill or power usage, it’s essential to monitor your meter readings regularly.
Are Smart Electric Meters Causing Higher Electric Bills in Maryland?
There is no clear evidence to suggest that smart meters are causing higher bills in Maryland or elsewhere. While some may wonder, “Do electric meters go bad?” smart meters are designed to provide more accurate readings of your electricity usage and allow for real-time tracking, which can help you monitor consumption more effectively. However, some people may perceive an increase in their bills after the installation of a smart meter due to several factors:
More Accurate Readings
Older analog meters often had mechanical issues or were less accurate, and smart meters provide more precise readings, which can sometimes reflect higher usage that was previously underreported.
Changes in Usage Patterns
The data provided by smart meters can reveal patterns that people might not have noticed before, such as increased electricity use during certain hours or with specific appliances.
Time-of-Use Pricing
Local utility companies like BGE and Pepco have introduced time-of-use pricing options with the implementation of smart meters, where electricity is more expensive during peak hours.
If you’re using electricity during peak times, it may contribute to higher bills. If you have seen sharp increases in your electricity bills but have not changed behaviors or added components to your home (e.g., a hot tub or electric car charger), then having your meter checked out is not a bad idea. There may be something causing inflated readings or energy consumption outside the norm that can be fixed or replaced.
Does My Maryland Digital Electric Meter Need Repair?
Has your electric bill been unusually high this past winter, and are you wondering, can my electric meter be wrong or why is my electric meter off? Normally, no. During the colder months, we use considerably more power to heat the home. Many Maryland residents have heat pumps, myself included, which will run on emergency backup heat if the outside temperature drops too far. This uses massive amounts of electricity. Many of us will use space heaters to help heat individual rooms, which, on their own, use a good deal of power.
Who Is Responsible For Electric Meter Repairs Near You?
In Maryland, the responsibility for digital electric meter repairs typically falls to the utility company that provides your electricity. If you experience problems with your digital electric meter, such as inaccurate readings or it not functioning properly, your first point of contact should be your utility provider. For example:
- BGE (Baltimore Gas and Electric) serves much of the central Maryland area.
- Pepco serves the Washington D.C. metro area.
If the issue is with the electric meter itself, the utility company will generally handle the repair or replacement. However, if the problem is with the wiring or connections leading to the meter, it may be your responsibility as the homeowner to repair or replace those components. In this case, you may need to contact an electric meter electrician, although your utility company will usually guide you on what to do next.
When hiring an electric meter electrician, it’s essential to ensure they are licensed and certified to perform electrical work in compliance with local regulations. An experienced electrician can assess the issue with your electric meter and handle any repairs or upgrades that may be necessary, including the replacement of faulty wiring or connections.
If you are looking to upgrade to a smart meter or need to troubleshoot specific electrical problems, an electrician can help. Smart meters offer enhanced functionality and energy tracking, but their installation requires skilled professionals. Additionally, regular maintenance and safety checks should be done to ensure that the meter and all related electrical components are functioning properly.
Bottom line: If you think your electric meter is not working, call your utility provider first. They can usually fix it. However, they may also suggest that you give us a call, and we would be glad to come out and assist!
