Dubious Meter Unit Usage - Faulty meter??

princesscutiepie

Hi Guys,
We've just got a dual fuel bills through from Southern Electric.
They claim that for the 6 month summer period this year (Apr-Oct 2008), we have used the same units of gas as we did in the last 6 month winter period (Oct-Apr 07/08).
The only gas used in the summer is our gas hob, in winter we obviously have the heating as an extra. We don't think this unit usage can be correct and are wondering if the meter is faulty. Can we ask for a replacement meter if we are dubious as to whether it's working correctly? Any thoughts?
Thanks for your help

Magentasue

Doesn't sound right. Could it be that one of the readings was estimated and so the unit usage for one period is not accurate? A leak?

Can't think of anything else. I think most suppliers check your meter for free if it turns out faulty but you pay if it's not.

Pssst

A gas leak would not account for any great increase in meter readings. The leakage volume required to significantly increase a meter reading would be so great that you would be very much aware of it. For eg,if you released just 1 unit (1 cubic foot) into the average living space,the smell would be alarming!

You cannot ask to swap your meter. However,you can request for it to be tested. It will be removed,taken to an authorised testing facility,tested and if it is found accurate,you will be billed for the test.

Cardew

princesscutiepie wrote: »

Hi Guys,
We've just got a dual fuel bills through from Southern Electric.
They claim that for the 6 month summer period this year (Apr-Oct 2008), we have used the same units of gas as we did in the last 6 month winter period (Oct-Apr 07/08).
The only gas used in the summer is our gas hob, in winter we obviously have the heating as an extra. We don't think this unit usage can be correct and are wondering if the meter is faulty. Can we ask for a replacement meter if we are dubious as to whether it's working correctly? Any thoughts?
Thanks for your help

Do you not heat your water with Gas?

Almost certainly this has occured because one(or more) of the meter readings has been estimated.

This would mean your winter bills were too low, or your present bill too high.

There is virtually nothing that can cause a gas meter to read 'fast'.