The RTS Switch-off

What It Means for Your Heating, Hot Water, and Energy Bills

If your home uses electricity for heating or hot water, especially on tariffs like Economy 7, Economy 10 or Total Heat Total Control, there’s an important change coming that could affect you.

Since 30 June 2025, the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS), sometimes called the Dynamic Teleswitch Service (DTS), have begun to phase out across the UK. This long-running service has been quietly working in the background of many homes for decades. But as the technology reaches the end of its operational life, it’s now time to upgrade.

What Is the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS)?

The RTS was introduced in the 1980s as a way to help homes using electricity for heating and hot water save money. It works by sending a radio signal to certain electricity meters, telling them when to switch between peak and off-peak rates. This allows energy suppliers to offer cheaper electricity during the night, ideal for charging up storage heaters or heating water tanks while demand is low.

If your home:

• Has no gas supply,
• Uses electric-only heating or storage heaters,
• Benefits from cheaper energy at night,
• Or has a separate switch box labelled “Radio Teleswitch,”

then there’s a good chance you’re using RTS without even realising it.

Why is RTS Being Switched Off?

Simply put, the technology behind RTS is no longer sustainable. The equipment used to send out the national radio signal can’t be properly maintained anymore. Like other legacy systems, RTS has served its purpose well, but it’s now time for a modern solution.

Starting from 30 June 2025, the RTS signal will be gradually phased out. This won’t be a sudden national switch-off; instead, groups of customers will be moved off the system in stages. If you’re affected, your electricity supplier will contact you directly, by letter, phone, or other methods.

What Does This Mean for You?

If you’re still using an RTS meter, you’ll need to upgrade to a smart meter. That’s because smart meters are the only technical replacement capable of delivering the same kind of service, letting your heating and hot water systems operate efficiently and at the right times.

Without an upgrade, you might experience:

• Heating or hot water that comes on at the wrong times, or not at all,
• Constantly-on systems that waste electricity,
• Higher bills due to incorrect tariff settings,
• Or loss of visibility over peak and off-peak usage.

In short: the longer you wait, the more disruption you might face.

What If I’ve Already Booked an Upgrade?

Good news: if you’ve already spoken to your supplier and have an appointment, even if it’s scheduled after 30 June 2025, there’s no need to worry. Your supplier knows the timeline and will ensure your meter continues to work until your switch is complete.

Still waiting to book? It’s best to act now. Booking early ensures you’ll have time to sort everything before your home is impacted by the RTS phase-out.

What if I Was Previously Told a Smart Meter Wasn’t Available?

You may have been told in the past that a smart meter couldn’t be installed in your home, perhaps due to low signal, rural location or a technical complication. The good news is that solutions for these issues are now in place. Many suppliers now have options to install smart meters in areas where they previously couldn’t.

So even if you were turned down before, now is the time to try again.

Will I Still Get the Same Tariff?

That depends on your supplier, but many offer smart meter-compatible tariffs that work similarly to your current one. Your supplier should help you choose a tariff that suits your home’s setup, especially if you rely on overnight charging for heating or hot water.

Remember: you have a right to ask questions and understand your options. Don’t feel pressured into a tariff that doesn’t feel right for your needs.

The Benefits of Upgrading to a Smart Meter

While it may feel like a hassle, moving to a smart meter offers real advantages:

• Accurate bills – no more estimates.
• Automatic readings – no need to submit them manually.
• Real-time usage tracking – helping you keep an eye on costs.
• Access to smart-only tariffs – which may offer better deals.
• Future-proofing – your home is ready for future energy improvements.

Not Sure If You Have an RTS Meter?

Here are a few signs:

• Your home uses electric-only heating or storage heaters.
• You’re on a time-of-use tariff like Economy 7 or Economy 10.
• There’s a separate box near your electricity meter labelled “Radio Teleswitch.”
• You’ve never had a smart meter installed.

Still not sure? The easiest way to find out is to contact your electricity supplier. They’ll be able to confirm and guide you through the next steps.

 

In summary, the RTS system is being phased out because it’s outdated and can no longer be maintained. If your home still relies on an RTS meter, upgrading to a smart meter is the only way to ensure your heating and hot water continue to work reliably, and that you’re billed correctly.

There’s no need to panic, but don’t delay either. Book your smart meter upgrade as soon as possible and speak to your energy supplier if you have any questions. This isn’t just a technical swap, it’s about keeping your home warm, your water hot, and your bills under control.

Looking to the Future? You Might Qualify for a Free Heating Upgrade

If your home runs on electric heating and you’re affected by the RTS switch-off, this could be the perfect moment to think beyond just a meter upgrade. If you’re on a low income or receive certain benefits, you could qualify for a brand-new heating system, including solar panels or heat pumps, completely free of charge under the government-backed ECO4 scheme.

These modern systems don’t just replace what you had, they can cut your bills, reduce your carbon footprint, and heat your home more efficiently. And you won’t pay a penny upfront.

It only takes a minute to check if you’re eligible. If you qualify, your home could be warmer, greener, and more affordable, all without the stress of managing the change yourself.