RTS Switch-Off on 30 June 2025: What It Means for UK Households and How Electricians Can Prepare
The RTS Switch off is fast approaching (Radio Teleswitch Service), also known as the Dynamic Teleswitch Service (DTS), and is set to be permanently switched off on 30 June 2025, marking the end of a technology that has been in use since the 1980s. This change will impact over 900,000 households across Great Britain that currently rely on RTS meters to manage their electricity usage, particularly for heating and hot water systems.
What Is the Radio Teleswitch Service?
RTS is a system that uses radio signals to control certain electricity meters, allowing them to switch between peak and off-peak rates. This functionality has been especially beneficial for customers on tariffs like Economy 7 or Economy 10, enabling them to take advantage of lower rates during off-peak hours to heat their homes or water tanks. However, the infrastructure supporting RTS is now reaching the end of its operational life, necessitating a transition to more modern solutions.
Why the RTS Switch-Off Matters
After 30 June 2025, RTS meters will no longer receive the necessary signals to operate correctly. This could result in:
- Heating and hot water systems not functioning as intended
- Inability to switch between peak and off-peak rates, leading to higher energy bills
- Lack of accurate billing due to the meter’s inability to record usage correctly
To avoid these issues, energy suppliers are urging customers to upgrade to smart meters, which can replicate the functionalities of RTS meters and offer additional benefits like real-time usage data.
Opportunities for Electricians
The mass transition from RTS to smart meters presents a significant opportunity for electricians across the UK. With hundreds of thousands of households needing upgrades, electricians can position themselves as essential service providers in this nationwide initiative.
How Di-LOG Products Can Assist:
- DL9120/30EV Multifunction Testers: Ideal for verifying the correct installation and operation of new smart meters.
- DL6508: Allows for non-intrusive current measurements, ensuring safety during meter installations.
- DL6780/90 Voltage Tester: Either of our CombiVolt indicators is a crucial bit of kit when confirming the presence or absence of voltage during meter replacements.
- DL6414 Clamp Meter: Versatile high-current testing with inrush detection—ideal for checking heating loads after smart meter upgrades.
- DL107/8 Non-Contact Voltage Indicator: These indicators can detect live voltage instantly, making it ideal for quick safety checks before touching a single cable.
By equipping yourself with reliable testing tools, all electricians can ensure safe and efficient installations, build trust with clients and potentially expand their customer base.
Enquire now on 0161 877 0322 or email Sales@dilog.co.uk
Next Steps for Households
If you’re unsure whether you have an RTS meter, look for:
- A separate switch box near your meter labelled “Radio Teleswitch”
- Electric heating systems like storage heaters or immersion heaters
- Tariffs that offer cheaper rates at certain times (e.g, Economy 7)
Contact your energy supplier to confirm and schedule a smart meter upgrade. Upgrading is typically free and ensures continued, efficient energy usage. Di-LOG is a part of the Di-LOG group, for more information, click the link to view our group divisions. You can even shop now for exactly what you need without having to call, simply visit our Energy Division www.dilogenergy.co.uk
It’s easy to enquire with us today.
Call Di-LOG at 0161 877 0322 now to make the most of our great prices, or alternatively you can email our incredible sales team at Sales@dilog.co.uk
Di-Log Test Equipment
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Tel. 0161 877 0322Fax. 0161 877 1614
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