Households have been issued a stark warning: act now or face the risk of losing heating this winter.
A significant number of British households and businesses could find themselves without heating and hot water in the colder months if they fail to replace their outdated meters.
Over 153,000 customers with RTS meters are being strongly encouraged to contact their energy supplier promptly to organise a meter replacement.
This proactive step will ensure that their heating and hot water systems continue to function normally during the winter season, and also allow customers to take advantage of lower off-peak electricity rates.
Since the start of 2025, energy suppliers have successfully replaced more than a quarter of a million RTS meters nationwide. However, there remains a total of 172,000 RTS meters across Great Britain yet to be replaced, with only 19,000 appointments currently scheduled.
Peter Senyk, a retired prison officer from East Renfrewshire, had his meter replaced in just 40 minutes.
“There were no issues at all and it was a really good experience. The engineer even called me later on to check that everything was working as it should,” he shared.
Following the installation of the smart meter, Peter has been able to benefit from automatic meter readings and near real-time energy tracking via his mobile phone. He’s also begun saving money by participating in a flexible energy-use reward scheme.
“If anyone still has an RTS meter, I’d recommend getting it replaced sooner rather than later. It’s understandable that people might be apprehensive, but it’s definitely a change for the better,” he added.
Smart meters are fitted free of charge, enabling households to monitor energy consumption and benefit from money-saving initiatives.
RTS technology was launched in the 1980s and is now nearing the end of its working life.
The system that supports the RTS signal is increasingly vulnerable to breakdown and if it fails, customers could find themselves without heating or hot water during the coldest months.
In locations where the RTS signal has already been discontinued, customers may only discover the impact when they switch on their heating as the temperature falls.
Any customers facing such an issue should get in touch with their supplier straight away for support and guidance.
Ned Hammond, deputy director, policy (customers) at Energy UK, said: “With ageing infrastructure at increasing risk of failure, the signal will be switched off for all customers before too long.
“At this time of year, with colder weather setting in, heating and hot water are more important than ever. Our message to customers is simple: please take action. Don’t risk being left without warmth when you need it most.”
You may have an RTS meter if: You’ve received letters, emails, texts or calls from your electricity supplier.
There’s a switch box near your energy meter labelled “Radio Teleswitch” or “RTS”.
You have electric or storage heaters.
There’s no gas supply in your area – you might live rurally or in a block of flats.
You receive cheaper energy at different times of day. Your tariff could be: Economy 7, Economy 10 or Total Heat Total Control.
