Which? The most common energy problems - and how to fix them
Nov 12, 2025
A new survey reveals that 37% of energy customers face significant problems with their providers. Discover common mishaps with smart meters, including signal failures that prevent access to cheaper tariffs. Learn about gas and electricity smart meters having communication issues and what it means for your bills. Tips on challenging rising direct debits and ensuring accurate readings are shared, empowering listeners to take control of their energy costs. Plus, hear about upcoming regulations aimed at improving customer service and compensation!
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Smart Meters Help — When They Actually Work
- Smart meters can deliver accurate billing and smarter tariffs when they work correctly.
- But signal failures and network limitations often stop them fulfilling that potential.
Smart Meter Stayed Dumb Despite Fixes
- A Which member in Scotland had a smart meter installed by Octopus in 2021 that never sent readings despite many engineer visits.
- Even a 4G hub install couldn't make the meter send data, leaving them unable to access cheap overnight tariffs.
Gas And Electricity Meters Not Talking
- One member's indoor electricity smart meter couldn't receive signals from their outdoor gas meter, so the gas readings failed to transmit.
- Octopus agreed to send an engineer to extend the signal range to 50 metres after Which intervened.