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Smart meter shows power use in an empty house

The answer

Compare your smart-meter interval data with a known period of absence and check timed loads such as fridges, hot-water systems, routers and pool pumps.

What to do next

  1. Compare your smart-meter interval data with a known period of absence and check timed loads such as fridges, hot-water systems, routers and pool pumps.
  2. If safe, use a household energy monitor or qualified electrician to isolate unexplained circuits.
  3. Ask the retailer or distributor about a meter test before assuming theft or a faulty meter.

Recommended service or product

Your energy retailer’s interval-use portal

Your energy retailer’s interval-use portal is a relevant starting point for this task because it offers the official service, tool or product category used in the steps above.

Open Your energy retailer’s interval-use portal — official website

What to check before deciding

If safe, use a household energy monitor or qualified electrician to isolate unexplained circuits. Ask the retailer or distributor about a meter test before assuming theft or a faulty meter. A fridge, hot-water heater or scheduled appliance can use power in an unoccupied home. Energy Made Easy compares tariffs; it does not diagnose meter readings. Your retailer’s interval-data service is the first evidence source.

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Frequently asked questions

What details should I verify about smart meter shows power use in an empty house?

Compare your smart-meter interval data with a known period of absence and check timed loads such as fridges, hot-water systems, routers and pool pumps.

What is a sensible follow-up for smart meter shows power use in an empty house?

If safe, use a household energy monitor or qualified electrician to isolate unexplained circuits.

What is a sensible follow-up for smart meter shows power use in an empty house (part 3)?

Ask the retailer or distributor about a meter test before assuming theft or a faulty meter.

Which details are most important for smart meter shows power use in an empty house?

Use interval meter data and known baseline before suggesting a faulty meter or electricity theft.