Reading Our Meter
Our gas meter measures the amount of natural gas flowing into your home in thousands of cubic feet, or MCFs. The meter dials work something like a car's odometer. The pointer on each dial advances one number when the pointer on the dial to the right makes a complete revolution. Each dial accounts for one digit of the meter reading.
Meter Readings & Billing
- Our trained meter readers take readings with hand-held computerized equipment.
- Your gas usage is determined by subtracting last month's reading (actual or estimated) from the current reading.
- A normal billing period can vary from 26 to 35 days.
- The dates used to calculate your bill, and your next scheduled meter reading date, are printed on your bill.
When we read your meter:
- Whether our meter is inside or outside, clear a three-foot area around it, making sure it's visible and accessible. Don't tie your pet to it, or use it as a hanger, a bike post, or for any other purpose. Servicing a blocked meter is difficult and can be a safety hazard in an emergency.
- Meter readers, customer service representatives, mail carriers and delivery people risk dog bites daily. Bites can cause injury, unnecessary medical and legal expense, and missed work time. Protect your dog, yourself and others by keeping your pet restrained.
Enter Meter Readings Online
--> Sign in or register to enter your own meter readings or check the next company meter reading date for your area.
Reading our meter is easy:
- Always read and record the readings from left to right.
- If the dial is anywhere between two numbers, use the lower number. The only exception is when the dial is between the 9 and 0. In that case, 9 is the lower number.
Automated Meter Reading
Dominion East Ohio is currently updating or exchanging mechanical meters with new automation technology for its 1.2 million customers in Ohio. The replacement or updated meters use computerized technology and a small device to transmit gas usage information to specially-equipped company vehicles driving through neighborhoods.
If you have questions or concerns, call us at 1-800-362-7557.
Frequently Asked Questions About Automated Meter Reading
- What is automated meter reading?
Automated meter reading (or AMR) is computerized technology that allows Dominion East Ohio to read your meter remotely. With this technology, your gas meter data will be transmitted by a small device and gathered by specially equipped vehicles driving through your area.
- Why did the company switch to automated meter reading?
For Dominion East Ohio customers, AMR:
- reduces the need for estimated meter reads,
- improves meter reading accuracy,
- is more convenient when customers must provide access to meters, and
- means one less reason the company needs to enter a customer's property.
For the company itself, AMR is more efficient, more flexible and more cost effective.
- When will I get this new technology?
Dominion East Ohio is installing the new technology in two phases:
- First, we are targeting addresses based on the age and type of existing meter. When you call for service, we may ask you allow us to schedule the upgrade or we may contact you by letter.
- Secondly, we are working in specific neighborhoods.
- Can I call and request the upgrade?
Yes, but we will honor the request only if we are currently working on the installations in your neighborhood.
- Will this change how often my meter is read?
Yes, eventually. For now, we will continue to read your meter every other month. Once we finish the AMR upgrades in your neighborhood, we will read meters monthly.
- Can the AMR meter interfere with my home security system, garage door opener, pacemaker, computer, radio, TV or other electronic equipment in my house?
No. AMR technology operates at a special low-power frequency and should not interfere with any of your electrical equipment.
- How is the AMR device in my meter powered?
A battery powers the AMR device.
- Does this new system affect my bill?
No. However, after the AMR meters are installed, some customers’ meter reading routes and billing dates may change. Affected customers will be notified.
- Has the AMR technology been tested for accuracy?
Yes. AMR technology has been tested by Dominion and its manufacturers to meet Dominion East Ohio specifications. Also, this technology is being used to read millions of meters at other large utilities throughout the United States.
- Will I still be able to read my meter myself?
Yes.
- How many meters will be equipped with AMR technology?
By the end of 2011, nearly 1.2 million Dominion East Ohio meters will be read by remote technology.
- Will a meter reader still visit my property if I have an AMR device?
A meter reader still may continue to read your meter initially for operational efficiencies. In addition, future periodic visits will be required by other Dominion personnel to perform inspections, service connections/disconnections and various maintenance tasks.
