Check your retailer’s app or online portal regularly to see when you use the most electricity, then target high-use appliances such as heating, cooling and hot water. Ask your retailer how your smart meter records interval data, whether your plan has time-of-use rates, and how usage information is stored or shared. Compare plans using your actual consumption pattern rather than assuming a smart meter will reduce bills by itself. Never interfere with the meter, and contact your retailer or electricity distributor if readings look unusual or the meter appears damaged.