RTS meter switch off update: You could lose reliable control of your heating and hot water if your home still uses an older Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) electricity meter.
The Radio Teleswitch Service shutdown is now a confirmed industry change, not just a future possibility. Energy suppliers and Ofgem have warned affected customers to arrange replacement meters before the signal is fully withdrawn.
If your RTS meter is not replaced in time, your heating system may stop switching correctly between peak and off-peak periods. That could lead to heating problems, hot water issues or incorrect billing.
RTS Meter Switch Off: What has actually been confirmed?
The Radio Teleswitch Service is being retired because the technology that supports it is reaching the end of its operational life.
The shutdown affects older electricity meters that use a radio signal to switch between different electricity rates and control some heating systems.
You can read Ofgem’s official guidance here: Ofgem RTS meter replacement guidance.
RTS Meter Switch Off: What is an RTS meter?
An RTS meter is an older electricity meter that uses a longwave radio signal to switch automatically between different electricity rates.
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RTS meters are commonly linked to Economy 7 tariffs, Economy 10 tariffs, electric storage heaters, electric-only properties and some rural heating systems.
The signal helps control when cheaper off-peak electricity becomes available. Without it, some systems may stop switching correctly.
RTS Meter Switch Off: Why this matters for your household bills
If your meter stops switching correctly, you may lose the benefit of off-peak electricity periods.
You could also face heating and hot water disruption if your system depends on RTS technology to control charging times.
In some homes, heating may run at the wrong time, fail to activate properly, or become harder to control. You may also receive inaccurate bills if your meter setup no longer works as expected.
RTS Meter Switch Off: How do you know if you have an RTS meter?
You may have an RTS meter if your home uses storage heaters, receives cheaper overnight electricity, has an Economy 7 or Economy 10 tariff, or has older electric heating controls.
Your meter may also have a “Radio Teleswitch” label or a separate switch box near the main meter.
However, some RTS setups are difficult to identify visually, so you should contact your supplier directly if you are unsure.
RTS Meter Switch Off: Will you have to pay for a replacement?
In most cases, suppliers are replacing RTS meters without charging customers directly upfront.
The replacement is usually a smart meter or another compatible metering solution.
You should ask your supplier to explain whether your tariff, heating controls or meter setup will change after replacement.
RTS Meter Switch Off: What should you ask your supplier?
Ask whether your property has an RTS meter, when your local signal will be affected, what replacement options are available, whether your tariff will change, and whether your heating controls will remain compatible.
You should also ask for written confirmation of any proposed tariff or meter changes.
RTS Meter Switch Off: What happens if you ignore the warning?
If your RTS meter is not replaced before the signal ends in your area, your heating and hot water may stop working as expected.
The exact effect depends on your heating setup. Some homes may experience incorrect switching times, heating that stays on too long, heating that fails to charge, or billing issues.
The safest step is to contact your supplier and arrange a replacement appointment as soon as possible.
RTS Meter Switch Off: Your practical next steps
Check whether your property uses electric storage heating or Economy 7 tariffs.
Contact your supplier immediately if you are unsure whether you have an RTS meter.
Book any offered replacement appointment as early as possible.
Ask your supplier to explain whether your tariff, heating controls or billing arrangements will change after replacement.
Keep copies of appointment confirmations and supplier communications in case problems arise later.
Useful official guidance: Ofgem RTS replacement guidance, Energy UK RTS consumer guidance, and Smart Energy GB RTS information.
People Also Asked…
What is the RTS meter switch-off?
It is the retirement of older radio-controlled electricity meter technology used in some homes with electric heating systems.
Could your heating stop working properly?
Yes. Without a replacement, some systems may lose proper heating and hot water control once the RTS signal ends.
Do you have to pay for a replacement meter?
In most cases, suppliers are replacing RTS meters without direct upfront charges to customers.
How do you check whether you have an RTS meter?
Contact your energy supplier if your home uses storage heaters, Economy 7 tariffs or older electric heating systems and you are unsure.
Should you wait for your supplier to contact you?
No. If you think you may have an RTS meter, contact your supplier now and ask for confirmation.
