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How to Read a Digital IHD with Your Smart Meter

Have you ever wanted to know exactly how much energy your household uses? You can now see live energy use and costs by using a handy In-Home Display (IHD), paired with a Smart Meter. 

This convenient duo gives you real-time insights into your energy usage, empowering you to make informed choices and potentially save money. Making the most of these potential benefits requires you to be able to read your Digital IHD which this handy guide will share with you.

What is an IHD Smart Meter?

Think of the IHD as your personal energy assistant, It's a small, portable touchscreen device that wirelessly connects to your smart meter (usually located outside your home).

The IHD then displays a wealth of information about your energy use, allowing you to:

person changing the display of their smart meter

See your current energy consumption:

This is typically displayed in kilowatts per hour (kWh) and can be really insightful for identifying peak usage times and inefficient electricals. 

person holding their smart meter

Track your energy use over time:

Many IHD smart meters allow you to view your energy use by day, week, month, or even year. This historical data is perfect for spotting trends and areas for potential reduction. 

smart meter on a table

Monitor your energy costs:

Some IHDs can even estimate your energy bill based on your current usage, allowing you to budget better.  

smart meter on a counter

Understanding your IHD Smart Meter Display

While the specifics might vary slightly depending on your IHD model, most will display similar information. Here's a breakdown of some common features:

Home Screen:
This is usually the first screen you see when you turn on your IHD. It often displays your current energy usage (kWh), along with estimated costs and perhaps even the outside temperature.

Menu Navigation:
Most IHDs have menus you can navigate through using a touchscreen. These menus might include options to view historical data, set budgets, or customise display settings.

Cost Indicators: 
Some IHDs might use coloured lights or symbols to indicate your energy usage level (e.g., green for low, red for high). This can be a handy visual cue to see if you are demanding a lot from your home energy at a glance.
person holding their smart meter

Tips for Using Your IHD Effectively

Explore the Features: 
Take some time to get familiar with your IHD's functionalities. Most models like the IHD3 and IHD6, come with a user guide that explains the specific features and menus.

Set Usage Goals:
Use the historical data to identify areas where you can potentially reduce your energy consumption. Setting realistic goals can help you track your progress.

Compare Usage:
Many IHDs allow you to compare your energy use with similar households. This can be a helpful benchmark to see if you're on the right track.

Consider Off-Peak Usage:
If you have a time-of-use energy plan, your IHD can help you identify off-peak hours when energy costs are lower. This can help schedule energy-intensive activities like laundry or running the dishwasher.

By understanding your IHD smart meter monitor and utilising its features, you can take control of your energy consumption and potentially save money on your bills. So, explore your home energy data – your wallet and the planet will thank you!

IHD Smart Meter FAQs: Unlocking Your Home Energy Data

I don't have an IHD, can I get one?

Availability depends on your energy supplier. Many suppliers in the UK are now offering IHDs with smart meter installations. Contact your supplier to see if they offer IHDs and if there are any associated costs. Customers of Your Co-op Energy can opt-in for one when they're switching to us for 100% renewable energy.

My IHD screen is blank, what's wrong?

First, check if your IHD is properly charged (if your model is rechargeable). Then, ensure it's within range of your smart meter (usually around 10 meters and with minimal walls in between). Consult your user guide for troubleshooting steps specific to your IHD model. If all else fails, contact your energy supplier for assistance.

My IHD shows high energy usage, what can I do?

The IHD data can be a great tool to identify areas for improvement. Look for peak usage times and consider switching off appliances during those periods. Explore features like historical data to see if specific appliances are energy guzzlers. Remember, even small changes can make a difference!

My IHD displays readings in kWh, how do I understand that?

kWh stands for kilowatt-hour. It's a unit of energy consumption. Think of it like how you measure distance in kilometres or weight in kilograms. Your IHD might also display estimated costs based on your current usage and historical data.

Is the data on my IHD secure?

IHDs use secure wireless protocols to communicate with smart meters. Your energy supplier is responsible for data security, so check their privacy policy for details.

Can I use my IHD to control my energy usage directly?

Currently, IHDs primarily focus on displaying information. However, some advanced models might offer features like setting usage budgets or controlling specific smart home devices (depending on your setup).

My IHD shows a message about a "communication error," what does that mean?

This could indicate an issue with the connection between your IHD and the smart meter. Check if they're within range and ensure no thick walls are blocking the signal. Restarting both the IHD and your smart meter (if possible) might resolve the issue. If the problem persists, contact your energy supplier.

Is there an app for my IHD?

While some IHD models might have companion apps, it's not universally applicable. Check with your energy supplier to see if an app is available for your specific IHD model.

My IHD seems outdated, can I get a newer model?

Upgrading your IHD might depend on your supplier's policy and the availability of newer models. Contact your supplier to inquire about upgrade options.