RTS switch off implications

15 May, 2025

If you have an old electricity meter that runs on the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS), you need to know that this system is being turned off very soon. RTS has helped control older meters for years, especially for people using Economy 7 and similar tariffs. But now it's coming to an end.

If you don't upgrade your meter in time, you could face problems with your bills, heating, and even the value of your home. This blog explains what the RTS switch-off means, what you should do, and how it might affect homeowners, landlords and people looking to sell their property.

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What Is RTS and Why Is It Being Switched Off?

RTS is an old system that lets energy suppliers change your electricity rates from day to night remotely. It’s often used with older meters and heating systems that rely on cheaper off-peak electricity at night.

This system is now being shut down for good. Once it’s gone, meters that rely on it may stop working properly. That could lead to higher bills, incorrect heating times, or no switching between rates at all.

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What Happens If You Don’t Upgrade Your Meter?

If you don’t replace your RTS meter before the switch-off, here’s what could happen:

• Your off-peak tariff may stop working, meaning you pay more for electricity.

• Electric heating and hot water systems may not turn on at the right times.

• You could be charged incorrectly or struggle to understand your bills.

Also, without a smart meter, you won’t be able to take advantage of newer tariffs and energy-saving tools.

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What It Means for People Selling Their Homes

Trying to sell a property with an old RTS meter could make things harder. Here’s why:

• Buyers today are more aware of energy costs and might see it as a problem.

• Surveyors could flag the meter as outdated or faulty.

• Some buyers might lower their offer if they think they’ll have to replace the meter later.

It might not ruin your sale, but it could reduce the interest in your home or lead to lower offers.

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What Landlords Should Know

If you’re a landlord, this is something you should deal with quickly, especially if your tenants use electric heating:

• If the heating stops working, tenants may complain or even take legal action.

• Tenants might face bigger bills if their off-peak tariff fails.

• Your property’s energy rating could go down, which might affect your ability to let or remortgage.

Switching to a smart meter now can help avoid these problems and make your property more appealing.

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Does It Cost Anything to Upgrade?

In most cases, no. Upgrading to a smart meter is free. Your energy supplier should do it for you. Some homes may need a little extra work, depending on the setup, but most people won’t have to pay anything.

Just get in touch with your energy provider to book the change.

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Why Are Some People Wary of Smart Meters?

Even though smart meters are better in many ways, some people are still unsure. Here are a few common worries:

• Privacy: Some fear smart meters will share too much information. But you can choose how much data is shared and when.

• Health: There’s no proof that smart meters are harmful. They give off less radiation than a mobile phone.

• Switching suppliers: Some people think smart meters stop working when you change energy company. That was true for older models, but the latest meters (called SMETS2) work fine with all suppliers.

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Don’t Wait Too Long

The RTS switch-off is happening soon. If you leave it too late, you could end up with higher bills or heating issues, and your property might even lose value.

Whether you’re living in your home, renting it out, or thinking about selling, it’s a good idea to upgrade your meter now. Speak to your energy supplier to book your free smart meter installation and avoid any problems when RTS is turned off.

Need help selling your home or getting it ready for buyers? Get in touch with the team at GetAnOffer. We're here to help you move forward with confidence.

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