FESCO Meter Reading Guide

Learn how to read your fesco electricity meter, submit self-readings, and ensure accurate billing with this complete 2025 guide.

🔍 How to Read Your FESCO Meter

Digital Meters (Most Common)

FESCO digital meter with display highlighted
  1. Locate the LCD display on your meter
  2. Wait for the screen to cycle to "kWh" reading
  3. Record all 5-6 digits (ignore red digit or decimal)
  4. Example: 12568 means 12,568 units consumed

Analog Meters (Dial Type)

FESCO analog dial meter with reading guide
  1. Read dials from left to right
  2. If pointer is between numbers, record the lower number
  3. When pointer is exactly on a number, check next dial:
    • If next dial is past 0, use that number
    • If not, use previous number
  4. Example reading: 3-5-9-2-1 = 35,921 units
Smart Tip: Take a photo of your meter reading every month - this serves as proof if disputes arise.

📲 How to Submit Self-Readings

Method 1: Online Portal

  1. Login at FESCO Self-Reading Portal
  2. Enter your 14-digit reference number
  3. Input current reading with date taken
  4. Upload clear photo of meter
  5. Get instant confirmation SMS

Method 2: WhatsApp Service

  1. Save 0335-4141414 in contacts
  2. Send message format: FESCO [Ref#] [Meter#] [Reading]
  3. Example: FESCO 12345678901234 123456 45890
  4. You'll receive verification reply
Deadline: Submit readings between 25th-30th of each month to avoid estimated bills.

⚠️ Common Meter Problems & Solutions

Problem Diagnosis Solution
Blank digital display Power outage or faulty meter Check neighborhood power. If only yours is out, call 118
Fast-spinning dial (analog) Possible power leak Turn off all appliances - dial should stop completely
Reading much higher than usage Meter error or theft Request meter testing (Rs. 500 fee, refundable if faulty)
"TAMPER" message Meter tampering detected Immediately contact FESCO to avoid legal action

Bill

❓ Meter Reading FAQs (15+ Answers)

Q1: What if I can't access my meter?

A: Contact FESCO to:

  • Request meter relocation (fee applies)
  • Arrange special reading appointment
  • Get shared meter access solution for apartments

Q2: How often does FESCO read meters?

A: Officially monthly, but:

  • Urban areas: 90% get actual readings
  • Rural areas: Often estimated every 2-3 months
  • You can identify estimated bills by "E" mark

Q3: Can I reject an estimated bill?

A: Yes! Submit an actual reading via:

  1. Online portal within 7 days of bill receipt
  2. Visiting FESCO office with meter photo
  3. Email to readings@fesco.com.pk
Corrected bill issued in 3-5 working days.

Q4: Why does my meter show two readings?

A: Time-of-Use (TOU) meters display:

Display Meaning
R1 / Peak 7AM-11PM (higher tariff)
R2 / Off-Peak 11PM-7AM (lower tariff)
Add both for total consumption.

Q5: How to check if my meter is faulty?

A: Conduct a 24-hour test:

  1. Record reading at 8AM
  2. Turn off all appliances at mains
  3. Check after 24 hours - should be same reading
  4. If changed, meter is defective
FESCO charges Rs. 500 for official testing (refunded if meter is faulty).

Q6: What's the difference between kW and kWh?

A:

kW (KiloWatt) kWh (KiloWatt-hour)
Measures instant power Measures energy used over time
Shows appliance demand What you're billed for
Example: AC uses 1.5kW Running it 2 hours = 3kWh

Q7: How do solar meters differ from regular ones?

A: Solar net meters:

  • Show import (grid power used) and export (solar power fed back)
  • Have reverse flow capability
  • Display net consumption automatically
  • Require bi-directional calibration

Q8: Can I install my own meter?

A: Only FESCO-approved meters are allowed:

  1. Purchase from licensed vendors (list at fesco.com.pk/meters)
  2. Submit installation request
  3. FESCO technician will seal and register it
Unauthorized meters incur Rs. 50,000 fine plus back billing.

Q9: Why does my meter number not match my bill?

A: Possible reasons:

  • Meter replacement wasn't updated in system
  • Database error (verify at billing office)
  • Property transfer issues
Submit meter photo and CNIC to correct records.

Q10: How long does FESCO keep meter reading records?

A: Official retention periods:

  • 7 years for billing records
  • 3 years for monthly readings
  • 1 year for complaint histories
Request copies at FESCO head office with written application.

📞 Need More Help?

Meter Issues Helpline: 0800-23400 (Press 3 for meter department)

Emergency Faults: SMS "FESCO [your address]" to 8118

Office Visits: Find your nearest FESCO center

 

Fesco Online Bill