No mobile reception for smart meter - what do?

mark_cycling00

My meter is under the stairs which is the part of the house that is built into the hillside. 
So my new meter can't get mobile reception. There is one mobile network here. My neighbours are in the same situation I don't think we'll be able to create a "mesh" between us or whatever it is

I did notice that the meter aerial has quite a long wire that is unfurled and could be long enough to reach a level above the soil level and get network. The aerial part has been nailed to plywood just above the meter unit. 

Am I allowed to do that or would it be viewed as "tampering" with their kit?

Thanks 

[Deleted User]

Hi,

what type of meter are you talking about, can you post a photie?

Rodders53

https://www.smartme.co.uk/smets-2.html 

Depending on where you are it may not be a mobile network connection.  (02, currently or Vodafone in future) but UHF long range radio.

That page shows some meters and some antennas (aerials) that can be fitted to improve things... that would be for your energy company to request/fit though.

A picture of what you have / are referring to would not go amiss and should help clarify things a lot.

mark_cycling00

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Netexporter

No harm in fixing the antenna as high as you can as there's a fair bit of cable. Looks like just one screw fixing it to the wall, You won't be able to disconnect it from the comms unit, because it has a seal on it.

mark_cycling00

Thanks I'll give it a go

Netexporter

I'm assuming the antenna is correctly orientated (vertical) but it might also be worth trying  fixing it horizontally as that would give it a bit more height above ground, overall. However, that could make things worse if the antenna you are trying to reach has only a vertically oriented signal but it is worth experimenting.