Electrical meters track how much energy your home consumes. Once mechanical and complicated, they’ve become easier to understand and use. Host Kevin O’Connor, master electrician Heath Eastman, and building engineer Ross Trethewey discuss these devices.
First, There Was Analog
The original electric meters were analog. They have spinning discs, dials, and arrows, and the faster those items moved, the more electricity you were using. A meter reader would need to check these in person, record the meter number and readings, and track your electrical usage.
Next, There Were One-Way Digital Models
There has been a significant push toward digital meters, which most utility companies now use. These models feature one-way communication, allowing the utility supplier to read the meter remotely. These models are also easier to understand, enabling homeowners to track their usage.
And Now, Smart Meters
We now have smart meters. These models have more features, but their main benefit is two-way communication. Not only does the meter report energy usage to the supplier, but the supplier can also remotely control the meter. In an emergency, the supplier can shut off power to the house to keep everyone safe.
The Future? Real-Time Data
The future will bring even more advanced meters with real-time data monitoring. This will help utility companies track outages and emergencies while also allowing homeowners to log in to their accounts and view their usage in real time.
