Submetering systems are essential tools for accurately tracking utility consumption in multi-tenant properties. They help promote fairness, encourage conservation, and reduce overall utility costs. However, like any mechanical or digital system, submeters can occasionally experience issues. Understanding how to identify and troubleshoot these problems can save property managers time, money, and frustration.

Here’s a guide to the most common submetering issues and how to troubleshoot them.

Inaccurate Readings

Symptoms:

• Sudden spikes or drops in utility usage

• Tenant complaints about unexpectedly high bills

• Readings that don’t align with historical usage

Troubleshooting Steps:

• Check for Calibration Issues: Meters may need recalibration to ensure accuracy.

• Inspect for Water Leaks or Electrical Faults: Leaks or faulty wiring can skew data.

• Verify Meter Type and Placement: Ensure the correct meter is being used for the right application and installed in the proper location.

No Data or Missing Readings

Symptoms:

• Gaps in utility data reporting

• Monitoring system fails to show usage for certain units

• Monthly bills missing usage data

Troubleshooting Steps:

• Check Power Supply or Battery Life: Dead batteries or power loss can halt data transmission.

• Inspect Connections: Loose wires or disconnected pulse outputs can interrupt signal flow.

• Reset the System: Sometimes a simple reboot of the reading system can restore functionality.

Communication Errors with Remote Systems

Symptoms:

• Data doesn’t upload to the central software platform

• Delays or failures in remote meter readings

• Alerts from the submeter gateway or communication module

Troubleshooting Steps:

• Check Internet or Network Connectivity: Ensure the gateway has a strong, reliable connection.

• Review Software Settings: Incorrect configurations may block data uploads.

• Update Firmware: Outdated firmware can cause compatibility issues with new systems.