Can You Have Two Electricity Meters in One House?
Having two electricity meters in one house is a topic that can confuse many homeowners.
In certain cases, you might be wondering if it’s feasible to install two meters in your property.
This article will unravel the complexity of this subject, taking into account different scenarios and the regulations of both the UK and US.
Contents
Understanding the Dual Meter Setup
Before we delve into the core topic, let’s comprehend the notion of double meter electricity.
Simply put, it’s a situation where a single property has two separate electricity meters installed.
This usually happens in homes converted into flats or when homeowners want separate energy usage readings for different sections of their home.
Now, let’s address the question: Can you have two electricity meters in one house?
The Possibility of Multiple Meters
Yes, you can technically install two electricity meters in one property, both in the US and UK.
However, the rationale behind such an installation can vary greatly, and it must align with local regulations and policies of the utility company.
For instance, property owners may need separate meters to manage electricity billing for different units like a home office, granny flat, or a tenant’s space.
You may also prefer this setup if different energy tariffs apply to different areas of your house.
Several forums discuss the idea of installing multiple meters.
For instance, ElectricianTalk hosted a discussion where users explored adding a second meter for a property, citing situations like a home business or separate living quarters.
Similarly, the Building Code Forum had users debating about the number of electricity meters permissible for a single-family dwelling, with the conclusion that local regulations play a crucial role.
Costs Associated with Merging Two Meters
Merging two electricity meters into one is a complex procedure.
It involves a thorough rewiring of your property and significant collaboration with your utility company and potentially local authorities.
The cost of such a procedure can range widely, depending on the complexity of the task, local labour costs, and potential permit fees.
Based on online discussions and industry averages, you may have to shell out anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand pounds or dollars.
What is a Multi-Rate Meter?
Multi-rate meters are a specific type of electricity meter.
They charge different rates based on the time you use the electricity.
In the UK, the ‘Economy 7’ tariff is an example that offers cheaper rates for seven hours, typically at night.
This meter type can be an excellent alternative to having two meters in one property.
It enables homeowners to enjoy the benefits of different tariffs without needing to install separate meters.
Placement of the Electric Meter
Whether in the US or UK, you can place the electric meter inside or outside the house.
However, the specific location usually depends on local building codes and regulations from your utility company.
If you have an indoor meter, it’s typically located in easily accessible areas like a utility room or basement, facilitating easy readings and maintenance.
Insights from Online Discussions
The topic of having two electricity meters in a single house has found space in numerous online discussions.
A thread on Quora dives deep into this question.
Here, a licensed electrical contractor confirmed the feasibility of this setup but highlighted the need to adhere to local regulations and utility company rules.
Similar thoughts were echoed in discussions on the NoBroker forum and Reddit, with users sharing personal experiences of managing two meters in their homes.
A question posted on DIY Stack Exchange discussed the merging of two electricity meters in one property.
Most users here recommend engaging a licensed electrician for the job to ensure safe and accurate work.
Concluding Thoughts
While it’s technically possible to have two electricity meters in one house in both the US and UK, be aware of potential complexities.
The governing factors include local regulations, the rules of your utility company, costs, and the specific requirements of your property.
Whether you are considering installing a second meter, merging two existing meters, or looking at alternatives like multi-rate meters, seeking advice from professionals is crucial to ensure safe and compliant electricity installations.
