Can I switch supplier with a smart meter?

Yes. Having a smart meter does not stop you switching supplier and you don't need to remove or replace it to switch. With a SMETS2 meter, or an enrolled SMETS1 meter, your smart features transfer automatically to the new supplier.

Will my smart meter stop working if I switch?

It shouldn't. Most smart meters keep working normally after a switch. Some older SMETS1 meters may temporarily lose their smart functions and drop back to manual readings, but the meter still records your usage accurately either way.

Do I need to tell my new supplier I have a smart meter?

You don't usually need to tell them separately — your meter details transfer as part of the switch. It's still worth confirming your new supplier supports your meter type, especially with an older SMETS1 meter.

Should I take a reading before switching?

Yes. Take a meter reading on the day your switch starts and photograph the display. An accurate opening reading protects you from estimated bills and makes it easy to resolve any disputes.

What happens if my SMETS1 meter stops working after switching?

A small number of older SMETS1 meters lose smart functions after a switch. If that happens, the meter still measures your usage — you simply submit manual readings until it reconnects to the network, and your bills stay based on those actual readings.

Are SMETS2 meters better for switching?

Yes. SMETS2 meters were designed to work across all suppliers, so they keep sending automatic readings and keep the in-home display working after you switch. See our SMETS1 vs SMETS2 guide for the full comparison.

Can my new supplier refuse my smart meter?

Almost never. Suppliers support SMETS2 and enrolled SMETS1 meters as standard. In rare cases a very old, un-enrolled meter may operate as a standard meter until it can be reconnected or replaced free of charge.

Why is my new supplier using estimated bills?

This usually happens when your meter hasn't yet reconnected to send automatic readings after the switch. Submit a manual reading to correct the bill, and chase your supplier if estimates continue beyond the first month.

What if my opening reading is wrong?

Send both your old and new suppliers the dated photo of your meter reading from the switch date and ask them to correct the figures. Opening and closing readings should match so you're not charged twice for the same energy.

How long should smart meter setup take after switching?

A switch itself typically completes within about five working days. Automatic smart readings usually resume within a few weeks. If they haven't after four to six weeks, contact your supplier.

Will my in-home display still work after switching?

It should. The in-home display re-syncs to your new supplier's tariff data after a switch, which can take a little time. Keep it plugged in near the meter, and contact your supplier if it still shows no cost data after a few weeks.

Can I switch if my smart meter is faulty?

You can, but it's better to get the fault fixed first. Switching won't repair a faulty meter, and an unresolved issue can complicate your new account. See our smart meter problems guide before you move.

Should I switch if I have energy debt?

If you owe less than a set amount you can usually still switch, but larger debts normally need clearing first. Sort out any debt with your current supplier before switching to avoid complications.

What if my old supplier owes me credit?

Your credit balance should be refunded after your final bill is settled. If it isn't returned automatically within about six weeks, request the refund from your old supplier in writing.

Who fixes the meter after I switch?

Your current supplier is responsible for your meter, including after a switch. If your smart meter isn't communicating, your new supplier arranges any fix or reconnection — there's no cost to you.

Does switching supplier break a smart meter?

No. Switching does not physically break a smart meter. At most, an older SMETS1 meter may temporarily lose automatic readings until it reconnects. SMETS2 meters carry on working across suppliers with no interruption.

What does it mean if my smart meter goes 'dumb'?

A 'dumb' meter has stopped sending automatic readings but still records your energy use accurately. You simply submit manual readings until smart functions are restored, and your supplier remains responsible for accurate billing.

Do I need an engineer visit to switch with a smart meter?

No. Switching supplier is a data process — no one needs to visit your home or touch the meter. An engineer is only involved if a meter needs replacing, which is arranged separately and free of charge.

Will I lose my meter readings history when I switch?

Your new supplier starts fresh from your opening reading, but your old supplier keeps your historical data. Keep your own photos and final bill so you have a record across the switch.

Can I switch to a smart tariff after moving supplier?

Yes, provided your meter supports it. Smart and time-of-use tariffs generally need a SMETS2 or fully enrolled SMETS1 meter that's sending automatic readings.

My gas readings transfer but my electricity doesn't — why?

Gas and electricity meters communicate separately, so one fuel can reconnect to the new supplier before the other. Submit manual readings for the fuel that's lagging and allow a few more weeks for it to re-sync.

Should I keep photographing my meter after switching?

It's a good habit for the first couple of months. Regular dated photos give you evidence if a bill looks wrong while your meter re-establishes its automatic readings.

Can a switch change my standing charge or unit rate?

Yes — your new tariff sets your standing charge and unit rate, and they may differ from your old deal. Check both on your first bill and compare them against what you were quoted.

What are my rights if my supplier ignores my readings?

You have the right to be billed on accurate readings. If your supplier keeps using estimates despite readings you've provided, complain formally, and escalate to the Energy Ombudsman if it isn't resolved within eight weeks.

Is it worth switching supplier if I have a smart meter?

Often, yes — a smart meter makes your usage data accurate, which helps you compare deals precisely. Switching can be well worth it if your tariff is expensive or you're out of contract, but switch carefully if you have an unresolved dispute, energy debt or a meter that isn't communicating.

Where can I check if switching is worth it?

Use our Should I Switch Supplier calculator and Energy Bill Calculator to compare your current costs against better tariffs. Your smart meter data makes those estimates far more accurate.

Do smart meters actually save money?

A smart meter doesn't cut your bills by itself, but the accurate readings and in-home display help you see where energy goes and unlock cheaper time-of-use tariffs that can deliver real savings.

Are smart meters free?

There's no upfront charge to have a smart meter installed — the cost is spread across all energy bills. You can request one from your supplier at no direct cost.

What is the difference between SMETS1 and SMETS2?

SMETS2 is the second-generation standard that keeps working smartly when you switch supplier. Many older SMETS1 meters have now been enrolled onto the national network to restore smart functionality.

Can I switch supplier with a smart meter?

Yes. SMETS2 meters retain smart features across switches. Some first-generation meters may temporarily lose smart functionality, but this is increasingly rare after the enrolment programme.

Do I have to accept a smart meter?

Installation is not currently mandatory for households, but suppliers are rolling them out widely and some of the cheapest tariffs now require one.

Back to HomeSmart Meters Hub

Smart Meter Switching Advice

Switching energy supplier should not normally stop a smart meter from working. But some older meters, supplier systems and communication issues can cause temporary problems with automatic readings or in-home displays. Here's a plain-English, practical guide to switching supplier with a smart meter — and how to avoid billing headaches.

Check If Switching Could Save You Money Estimate My Current Energy Costs

14 min read Last updated 1 July 2026

Which smart meter do you have?

Pick your meter type to jump straight to the advice that applies to you — and see the key risks to watch for when you switch.

Not sure which one you have?

Will My Smart Meter Still Work If I Switch Supplier?

In almost all cases, yes. Switching supplier is a behind-the-scenes data process — nobody visits your home and nobody touches the meter. Here's what to expect:

Most smart meters continue working normally after a switch.
SMETS2 meters are designed to work seamlessly across all suppliers.
Some older SMETS1 meters may temporarily lose their smart functions.
Manual readings may be needed during or shortly after the switch.
Your bills should still be based on accurate readings if you provide them.

The difference comes down to which generation of meter you have. Our SMETS1 vs SMETS2 guide explains how to tell them apart and why it matters when you switch.

What To Check Before Switching Supplier

Tick each item off — 0 of 9 done.

Check whether you have a SMETS1 or SMETS2 meter

Your meter type decides how smoothly your smart features transfer. If you're not sure, your current supplier can confirm it.

Take a meter reading on the day your switch starts

An accurate opening reading protects you from estimated bills and disputes over who charges you for what.

Photograph the meter reading

A dated photo of the display is your evidence if the opening or closing reading is ever questioned.

Save your latest bill

Keep a copy of your most recent statement so you can check the final bill from your old supplier is accurate.

Check whether your account is in debt or credit

Credit should be refunded after switching; debt usually needs settling first. Know where you stand before you move.

Check exit fees or fixed tariff terms

Leaving a fixed deal early can trigger exit fees. Weigh those against the savings from switching.

Confirm your new supplier supports your meter

Almost all suppliers support SMETS2 and enrolled SMETS1 meters, but it's worth confirming before you commit.

Keep your in-home display connected

Leave the in-home display plugged in and switched on so it can re-sync with your new supplier's data.

Watch for estimated bills after switching

If your first bill uses estimates rather than your readings, challenge it early rather than letting it roll on.

Before you commit, see what your energy actually costs today so you can spot a genuinely better deal.

Compare Your Current Energy Costs First

SMETS1 and Switching Supplier

SMETS1 meters were the earlier generation of UK smart meter. Some historically became "dumb" after switching — meaning they lost their smart functions and dropped back to manual readings until they could be reconnected.

Since then, the vast majority of SMETS1 meters have been enrolled into the national smart meter network, which restores supplier-independent smart functionality. If yours hasn't been enrolled, you may need to submit manual readings for a while after switching.

Crucially, the meter itself keeps measuring your usage accurately even if the smart functions stop — so your bills stay correct as long as readings are provided. Compare the two generations in our SMETS1 vs SMETS2 guide, and if yours has gone quiet, our smart meter problems guide explains how to get it working again.

SMETS2 and Switching Supplier

SMETS2 meters were designed for supplier switching from the start. They connect to the secure national network rather than a single supplier's system, so switching is seamless.

They should normally keep sending readings automatically after a switch.
The in-home display should keep working and re-sync to your new tariff.
No engineer visit or meter change is needed to switch.

Problems can still happen occasionally due to supplier data transfer or communication delays — but these are usually temporary and resolve as the new account settles.

Common Switching Problems

Tap an issue to see what it means, why it happens, what to do and when to contact your supplier.

Switching Timeline

What to do and check at each stage of switching supplier with a smart meter.

1
Before switching
Check your meter type, tariff, exit fees and recent usage so you switch from a position of knowledge.
2
Switch request submitted
Your new supplier starts the transfer and agrees a switch date with the old one — no engineer visit needed.
3
Switch date
Take manual meter readings and photograph the display so opening and closing readings can be matched.
4
First 14 days
Check your new account is set up correctly and that the meter is communicating with the new supplier.
5
First bill
Check the readings used, the standing charge, unit rate and direct debit all look right.
6
After one month
Raise an issue if smart readings still aren't working — this is the point to chase it, not ignore it.

What If My Smart Meter Goes Dumb?

"Dumb" simply means it has stopped sending automatic readings.
It should still record your energy use accurately.
You can submit manual readings in the meantime.
Your supplier remains responsible for accurate billing.
Don't ignore estimated bills — challenge them if they look wrong.

Submitting your own readings? Sanity-check what your bill should be so you can spot an over-estimate.

Check Your Bill Manually

Your Rights When Switching With a Smart Meter

Your supplier should bill you accurately, based on real readings.
You can complain if the readings you provide are ignored.
Opening and closing readings should match across suppliers.
Any credit balance should be refunded after your final bill.
You can escalate unresolved complaints to the Energy Ombudsman.

Trusted UK sources

Ofgem
The energy regulator's guidance on smart meters and switching.
Citizens Advice
Independent advice on switching, billing and complaints.
Smart Energy GB
The official smart meter rollout information campaign.
Energy Ombudsman
Where to escalate an unresolved complaint about your supplier.

Should You Switch Supplier If You Have a Smart Meter?

A smart meter shouldn't put you off switching — but weigh it up honestly.

Switching may be worth it if…

Your tariff is expensive compared with the best deals available
You are out of contract or on a standard variable tariff
You are unhappy with your current supplier's service
You can lock in a better fixed deal
You want better app support or billing tools

Check If Switching Could Save You Money

Switch carefully if…

You have an unresolved billing dispute
Your smart meter is not communicating
You have energy debt to settle first
You are on a specialist or protected tariff
Your meter details look incorrect on your account

Fix meter issues first

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Quick answers to common smart meter questions.

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Explore the Knowledge Centre

Find related calculators, guides and reports in our Smart Meters hub — part of the PowerGuardian Knowledge Centre.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Smart meters and billing problems

This page is part of our UK smart meter and energy billing help centre, which sets out how to evidence, raise and escalate a billing problem.

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Smart Meter Switching Advice

Which smart meter do you have?

Will My Smart Meter Still Work If I Switch Supplier?

What To Check Before Switching Supplier

SMETS1 and Switching Supplier

SMETS2 and Switching Supplier

Common Switching Problems

Smart meter stopped sending readings after switching

New supplier says they cannot read the meter

In-home display stopped showing costs

Opening reading does not match final bill

Old supplier sends an estimated final bill

Credit balance not refunded

Direct debit changed unexpectedly

Gas smart meter works but electricity does not

Electricity meter works but gas does not

Meter details appear wrong on the new account

Switching Timeline

Before switching

Switch request submitted

Switch date

First 14 days

First bill

After one month

What If My Smart Meter Goes Dumb?

Your Rights When Switching With a Smart Meter

Trusted UK sources

Should You Switch Supplier If You Have a Smart Meter?

Switching may be worth it if…

Switch carefully if…

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I switch supplier with a smart meter?

Will my smart meter stop working if I switch?

Do I need to tell my new supplier I have a smart meter?

Should I take a reading before switching?

What happens if my SMETS1 meter stops working after switching?

Are SMETS2 meters better for switching?

Can my new supplier refuse my smart meter?

Why is my new supplier using estimated bills?

What if my opening reading is wrong?

How long should smart meter setup take after switching?

Will my in-home display still work after switching?

Can I switch if my smart meter is faulty?

Should I switch if I have energy debt?

What if my old supplier owes me credit?

Who fixes the meter after I switch?

Does switching supplier break a smart meter?

What does it mean if my smart meter goes 'dumb'?

Do I need an engineer visit to switch with a smart meter?

Will I lose my meter readings history when I switch?

Can I switch to a smart tariff after moving supplier?

My gas readings transfer but my electricity doesn't — why?

Should I keep photographing my meter after switching?

Can a switch change my standing charge or unit rate?

What are my rights if my supplier ignores my readings?

Is it worth switching supplier if I have a smart meter?

Where can I check if switching is worth it?

Smart meters and billing problems

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