Smart meters are all the rage right now—and what’s not to like? They’re an easy hack for energy savings and give you 24/7 data on your facility’s power usage. So how do you get one installed? Well, that’s when the pros come in. Smart meters are fast to install and are non-invasive, but they require advanced training and knowledge to install correctly.
Let’s take a look at what smart meters are, why they’re a no-brainer investment for any business, and how you can get one installed in your facility.
What is a smart meter?
Smart meters offer real-time insights into the electricity usage of your facility. This detailed information on energy consumption (often referred to as “energy data”) reveals patterns in usage. This energy data can allow you to identify areas of waste and make informed decisions to save energy and reduce costs. Most smart energy meters resemble traditional utility meters but with additional features and a digital display screen that provides real-time information. Some smart meters will even transmit usage data wirelessly to the owner.
Benefits of smart meters
Smart meters are becoming a popular choice for businesses aiming to save energy and reduce utility costs. They provide comprehensive energy data, offering detailed insights into metrics like power factor and usage patterns. Unlike traditional meters, smart meters deliver real-time updates, allowing businesses to monitor and adjust their energy usage promptly, leading to immediate energy conservation and cost reduction. Additionally, smart meters offer tailored solutions by analyzing specific usage patterns and suggesting personalized energy reduction strategies. Their installation is non-invasive and doesn’t require expensive overhauls of existing infrastructure.
How to get a smart meter installed for your business
While the process of installing a smart meter isn't overly complicated, installation should always be done by a trained technician. So are you ready to have a professional install a smart meter in your facility? Let’s walk through exactly what you can do from contacting the pros to utilizing your smart meter to its fullest.
1. Contact a Professional to Schedule an Appointment
The first step toward getting your own smart meter is to schedule an appointment with a professional. Generally, the cost for installing a smart meter can range from $40 to $200 per connection, depending on your location and the specific requirements of your business. Reach out to your energy supplier or a trusted third-party provider. At Electripure, we specialize in smart meter installation and we will even continue to keep in contact with you after installation to make sure you’re getting the most out of the new data you’re receiving.
2. Prepare for the Appointment
Once you’ve scheduled your appointment, it’s time to prepare for the installation. Ensure that the area around your existing meters is clear of any obstructions like bushes or debris. You should know that the installation process typically involves a brief power outage lasting 20 to 30 minutes, so plan your business operations accordingly to minimize disruptions. Finally, make sure you have someone planned to be present during the installation to facilitate any necessary communication with the technician.
3. Appointment Day
On the day of the appointment, a professional technician will arrive at your business premises to carry out the installation and will replace your existing meters with the new smart meters. This process usually takes about an hour per meter, during which you will likely not have power. After the installation, the technician will take away your old meters for proper disposal or recycling.
4. Get Connected
After installation, it may take up to two weeks for your smart meters to start communicating and producing data. This period allows the meters to sync with the system and begin transmitting information. Once the meters are operational, you can view your energy usage data. Depending on the type of smart meter installed, you might access this information through a smart screen, mobile apps, or a web portal provided by your energy supplier or third-party provider.
And there you go! With professionals doing the installation for you, most of the hard work is out of your hands. Not only will this upgrade help you monitor and manage your energy consumption more effectively, but it will also contribute to greater energy efficiency and potential cost savings in the long run.
Not to toot our own horn, but at Electripure we specialize specifically in smart meter technology. We even have our own proprietary smart meter called the CleanPQ that doubles as a harmonics filter to clean up your energy while also reading data on your facility. <inline-link>Give us a call <inline-link>and we can hook you up with a smart meter that could help you save up to 20% each month on your energy bill. Let us help you get your money out of the power you’re paying for.