By learning how to read you meter, you will be able to verify the readings and usage on your bills. Below is an example of a pointer style electric meter. To read this style of electric meter correctly, begin with the dial at the right. Write down the number the pointer is directly on, or has last passed. If the pointer is between two numbers, use the smaller number. Every other dial turns clockwise. Therefore, 0 is higher than 9, but lower than 1. Repeat this procedure for the remainder of the dials from right to left. Write down the number from right to left. The result you obtain is the meter reading.

This meter reading would be 2165. This meter reading would be 3027. By subtracting the first (previous month) reading from the second (current month) reading, you get the kilowatt hour usage, 3027 - 2165 = 862 kWhs. If your meter is a cyclometer style, the digits will scroll to show the amount registered. Write down all digits directly as they appear on the register.

KWh is the standard unit of electric measurement used in computing your electric bill. Watts are the units used to measure the rate at which a lamp or an electric appliance uses electricity. Lamps and appliances normally carry a stamp or metal plate that shows wattage information. In some instances, appliance name plate data will show 1,000 watts as 1 kilowatt. A kilowatt hour (kWh) is equal to 1,000 watt hours, or the amount of electricity used to light a 100 watt lamp for 10 hours.