Hundreds of thousands of UK households are being urged to check their electricity meters as a crucial energy upgrade deadline approaches. The outdated Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) meters, many of which date back to the 1980s, will become obsolete from 30 June 2025, potentially leaving homes without heating or hot water if not replaced in time.
Here’s what you need to know, who’s affected, and how to act now to avoid disruption.
Why RTS Meters Must Be Replaced
RTS meters rely on a longwave radio signal to automatically switch between peak and off-peak electricity rates, often linked to Economy 7, Economy 10, or Total Heat Total Control tariffs. These meters are commonly found in homes with electric-only heating—especially those without a gas supply, such as rural properties or high-rise flats.
However, the radio signal that powers RTS meters will be switched off between 1 July and 30 September 2025, rendering them non-functional. This could lead to serious problems like:
- Heating or hot water systems failing to turn on
- Radiators stuck on full in summer
- Loss of control over energy usage and billing
An awareness campaign fronted by Lorraine Kelly warns that unless these meters are upgraded, thousands could be left facing heating chaos.
How Many Households Are Affected?
According to government and energy industry estimates:
- Nearly 300,000 households across England, Scotland, and Wales still use RTS meters.
- 1,000 meters per day are currently being replaced—but at that pace, thousands could be missed.
- To meet the deadline, suppliers need to replace 5,000 meters per day.
Despite the urgency, many customers are still waiting months after requesting replacements, according to consumer reports.
How to Check If You Have an RTS Meter
Not sure if your home has an RTS meter? Here are common signs:
| Indicator | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Label near meter says “Radio Teleswitch” | Confirms RTS equipment |
| Property uses electric heating only | High likelihood of RTS meter |
| No gas supply to home | RTS is often used in all-electric homes/flats |
| You’re on a dual-rate tariff like Economy 7 or Economy 10 | RTS likely controls time-based switching |
If in doubt, contact your electricity supplier immediately to confirm and book a replacement.
What Happens If You Do Nothing?
Failing to replace your RTS meter in time could result in:
- Inability to control heating or hot water
- Unexpectedly high bills
- Total heating failure
- Billing disputes with suppliers
Energy regulator Ofgem has said it is monitoring the situation closely, and industry body Energy UK admits that meeting the June deadline will be “challenging”.
What Should You Do Now?
- Check your meter for an RTS label or unusual switch boxes.
- Contact your electricity supplier directly—even if you haven’t received a letter.
- Request a meter upgrade as soon as possible to avoid delays.
- Ask your supplier whether the replacement will be a smart meter, which allows better tariff control and monitoring.
FAQs:
What is an RTS meter?
A Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) meter uses longwave radio signals to switch between peak and off-peak energy rates, often linked to electric heating systems.
Why are RTS meters being phased out?
The radio signal that powers them will be permanently switched off between July and September 2025, making the meters inoperable.
What will happen if I don’t replace my RTS meter?
You could lose control of heating and hot water, face faulty billing, or see energy systems stop working entirely.
How do I know if I have one?
Look for a switch box labeled “Radio Teleswitch,” or contact your supplier if you have electric heating and no gas connection.
