If your business has an RTS meter, you might have heard that from 30th June 2025, the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) will be switched off for good. It might sound a bit daunting, but don’t worry, Ruby Energy has got you covered. We’re here to make sure your business stays powered up without any hassle.
Let’s break down what this means for you and how to get sorted without a hitch.
What Is a Radio Teleswitch Service Meter (RTS)?
An RTS meter is an old-school device that uses radio signals to switch between peak and off-peak rates. These were mainly used with multi-rate meters, like those linked to:
- Electric storage heaters
- Immersion heaters in water tanks
- Panel heaters
RTS meters were introduced back in the 1980s and have been ticking along for decades. But they’re now nearing the end of their life, and the equipment that transmits those radio signals can no longer be maintained. That’s why they’re getting the axe.
There are still about 900,000 RTS meters in use across the UK, but come 30th June 2025, they’ll no longer function as intended. So, it’s time to look at an upgrade!
How to Tell If You Have a Radio Teleswitch Meter
Not sure whether your business has an RTS meter? Here are a couple easy ways to check:
Look for a Label: Some meters have a “radio teleswitch” label on a separate switch box near your meter.
Ask Your Supplier: Give your energy supplier a quick call to confirm your meter type.
If any of these sound familiar, it’s worth double-checking with your supplier to see if you’re affected by the switch-off.
How Will the Switch-Off Affect My Business?
If your business relies on an RTS meter and you don’t upgrade before the deadline, you could face a few hiccups:
- Your heating or water systems might get stuck on or off, or they may charge up at the wrong time of day.
- Your energy bills might become inaccurate because your supplier can’t track your usage correctly.
- You could end up overpaying for energy or struggling to budget effectively.
No one wants unexpected costs or cold mornings, so getting ahead of the upgrade is a smart move!
What’s the Positive Side of the RTS Switch-Off?
You might be thinking, “Hang on, if it’s still working, why change?” The good news is that switching from an RTS meter can actually be a great opportunity for your business.
Upgrading to a smart meter means:
No More Estimated Bills: Smart meters send your actual usage directly to your supplier, so you only pay for what you use.
Energy Insights: See when and how you’re using energy to spot opportunities to save.
Automatic Readings: No more manual meter readings—your meter does the legwork.
Potential Cost Savings: By tracking your usage, you can make smarter decisions that cut your energy bills.
Flexibility: If you’re switching from an RTS meter, you’re in the perfect position to shop around and find the best deal for your business.
How to Upgrade Your RTS Meter
Your energy supplier should contact you to arrange an upgrade, but if they haven’t yet, it’s worth giving them a nudge. You may be eligible for a free smart meter installation, and it’s a straightforward process that won’t disrupt your business.
Future-Proof Your Business with Ruby Energy
Why wait? If you’ve got an RTS meter, let Ruby Energy take care of the upgrade for you. Switching to a smart meter is simple, hassle-free, and could save you money in the long run.
Book your free smart meter upgrade today! Click here to get a no-obligation quote and experience the Ruby Way, with top-notch customer service backed by our Excellent Trustpilot rating from over 17,000 reviews.
