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Update March 2026:
It is now expected that the switch-off will be completed in summer 2026. The RTS switch-off will progress through a 'controlled phase out'. Any households who have not yet upgraded should not face any immediate unexpected disruption to their heating or hot water. However, the national signal which controls RTS meters will still be switched off in due course.
The equipment is old and could stop working on its own. If this happens, it can’t be repaired. The national signal will only be completely switched off when Ofgem, government and suppliers are comfortable that all appropriate measures have been taken to minimise the impact on remaining RTS customers.
Will my heating/hot water be affected when the signal is phased out?
There is a high likelihood that your heating/hot water will be affected if you do not change your RTS meter. If you have already replaced your RTS meter, you should not experience any issues. If you are still waiting, please ensure you book your appointment as soon as possible, as this is the only way to guarantee heating and hot water will continue to work.
You could see:
- Your heating and hot water remain continually on or off, or charging up at the wrong time of day.
- Your supplier incorrectly charging you. Without the RTS, your supplier might not be able to tell when you used your electricity, meaning it could bill you incorrectly for off-peak and peak usage.
- A more limited choice of tariffs. As the service is being switched off, you'll find fewer (or no) tariffs being offered for those with an RTS meter.
If you experiencing an issue with your heating/hot water and still have an RTS meter, contact your supplier as soon as possible to be able to investigate if this is related to the phasing out of the RTS signal.
I've not heard anything - what should I do?
Suppliers will contact all affected customers - if you have any questions or are concerned, please reach out to your supplier as soon as possible. If you do not know who your supplier in, you can find out more online at Find My Supplier.
How do I know if I have an RTS meter?
You may have an RTS meter if:
- your home has a separate switch box near your meter with a Radio Teleswitch label on it
- your home is heated using electricity or storage heaters
- there is no gas supply to your area, including households in rural areas and high-rise flats
- you get cheaper energy at different times of day
Please get in touch with your electricity supplier if you’re not sure which meter is in your home. If you do not know who your supplier is, you can follow this find your energy supplier link to learn more.
Do I need to switch?
After the switch off, the meters may no longer work properly. This could mean that your heating and hot water supply stops functioning as normal or electricity bills could be higher.
What will my meter change to?
It is likely that you will be given a smart meter which will give you a similar service to your RTS meter. Find out more about getting a smart meter.
If your supplier is not be able to offer you a smart meter yet, they must make sure you have a suitable meter installed, and that your service is not disrupted. Please speak with your supplier for more information.
Where I can learn more?
Find out more information and advice on energyadvice.scot.
You can also read more replacing your old RTS meter.
