We know how annoying and frustrating it could be when you want to use your prepaid meter to perform a certain function but you get invalid meter response. This is usually annoying? Right!
Well, you’re not the only one, as many electricity consumers are in the same shoe as you. So, if you find yourself in such scenario, there is no cause for alarm. All you need to do is chill and relax as I walk you through this guide.
Although there are many reasons why you may get an invalid meter response when using your prepaid, the most common among them is omitting a digit when inputting your meter number. So, if you get this response, it is either because you omitted a digit in your meter number or because of other external factors. Whichever way, we are here to guide you on how you can go about it.
Read also: Why is my prepaid meter showing failed
Reasons why you may Get an Invalid Meter Response
There are many reasons why you may get an invalid response when you want to use your prepaid meter. Some of which include:
- Network issues
- Technical fault
- Faulty meter connection
- Omitting of a digit when entering a meter number
- Physical damage to the meter, etc.
Things to do When you Get an Invalid Meter Response in Nigeria
If you are using a prepaid meter in Nigeria and get an invalid response when operating the meter, all you need to do is to verify your meter number and ensure that you entered it correctly. If you didn’t input all the digits of your meter numbers correctly when operating it, you may likely get an invalid meter response. As you may have known, the meter number is usually 11 or 13 digit number, ensure that you enter them correctly when operating your meter to avoid issues.
What you Should do When you get an Invalid Meter Response Online
Some of the invalid meter responses are caused by temporary network issues or other minor technical challenges. They may also be caused by other persistent factors, such as physical damage, among others.
So, if you get an invalid meter response from your meter, the first thing to do is to wait for a short period of time and check if the meter will function properly. If it persists, then do this:
Document the error
If the error persists, the first thing to do is to document the exact error message that is displayed on the meter. This documentation is important because your electricity providers may ask you to provide it should the need arise. After documentation, you can take any of the troubleshooting measures below;
- Check your prepaid meter’s physical connection to ensure that it is secure and undamaged.
- If you entered a meter number and got an invalid meter response, then re-check the number to ensure that you entered it correctly and didn’t omit any digits.
- Power cycle the meter by turning it off, waiting for a few minutes, and then powering it on again. This will help resolve communication issues within the meter.
- Inspect the meter keenly to ensure that there is no physical damage to it.
Contacting Your Electricity Provider
If none of the measures outlined above work, then you will need to contact your electricity provider for assistance. Follow these procedures when contacting them.
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- Contact your electricity distribution company through the channel they provide.
- Provide detailed information about the invalid meter response, including the error displayed and troubleshooting measures you have taken.
- Their customer care unit will guide you on what to do and if need be, they will send an experienced technician that will assist you.
Conclusion
When you get an invalid meter response, you will need to wait for a few minutes to know whether the issues will resolve itself. However, if the response persists, you will need to document it and try out a few troubleshooting measures, like power cycling the meter, inspecting it for physical damage and ensuring that the meter wires are properly connected. If these measures don’t work out, then you will need to contact your electricity provider for assistance.
