Smart meters are being rolled out apace in Eastcote, west London, but not everyone is happy. The UK Government aims to roll out smart meters to 30 million homes and two million small businesses by 2020 in what is considered to be the largest programme ever undertaken, but not everyone is happy.

“Simply put, a smart meter is an electronic device that records consumption of electric energy and communicates the information to the electricity supplier for monitoring and billing,” explains Dave, Director of dkp Electrics. “Smart meters generally record energy hourly or more frequently, and report at least daily.”

Most households will have smart meters installed by their energy company before 2020, however, many consumers don't want to switch to the new meters despite pressure from energy companies. Smart meters offer benefits in terms of greater opportunities for energy saving. The disadvantage is that the cost of the meters is being passed on to consumers through higher energy bills.

Dave from dkp Electrics explains that there are a variety of devices that can be installed to improve the energy efficiency of a home. A significant saving can be achieved by switching to LED lights, installing an A-rated high efficiency condensing boiler, installing a thermostat or heating controls, turning down the thermostat by one degree and using a real time electricity consumption monitor.

According to the Energy Saving Trust, smart heating controls are the latest innovation to help control heating and understand home energy use. These allow home owners to control heating remotely via a mobile app, meaning that they can manage the temperature of their home from wherever they are, at whatever time of day.

“There are many different devices available for you to consider, so if you are interested in finding out how you can save money or would like to install larger scale equipment such as Solar Panels, we are skilled in carrying out all Energy Efficient Installations,” says Dave.

Other examples of energy saving devices installed by dkp Electrics include photo voltaic solar panels, Vphase voltage optimisers, Economy 7 meters, Low Energy Systems and light sensors. But many energy saving devices are far more efficient when installed in conjunction with adequate insulation, draught-proofing and water saving measures such as lower flow taps and shower heads.

“We work with other suppliers to ensure the best energy efficiency solution for your particular situation,” says Dave. “Smart meters are really only one small part of conserving energy and saving consumers money from the word go while ensuring long term economic benefits for the country and a lower environmental impact on the planet long into the future.”

dkp Electrics is happy to help out no matter how big or small the job. “We understand how daunting it may be to call up a tradesman for something you know nothing about, but no matter how small the job, we can cater for all your needs. Whether it's something you don't want to do or a job which has left you confused, don't waste your time, we can fix it and make sure it's safe,” Dave assures.

All Eastcote electricians at dkp Electrics are NICEIC registered to give customers full confidence that the level of electrical service and workmanship they receive will be of the finest standard, and will always comply with the required health and safety standards and regulations.

“If you do decide to choose our services, you can rest assured you've made the best choice and you can rely on us to give you a professional, friendly, reliable and competitively priced service from beginning to end,” Dave concludes.

dkp Electrics is a friendly, local NICEIC approved electrical company which undertakes all types of electrical work, from fault finding to installing or upgrading. Customers can rely on a professional, honest and competitively priced service. dkp Electrics provides a one stop shop for all, from wiring a kitchen, installing audio, CCTV, energy saving devices or simply taking over an unfinished job, every electrical job is their speciality. All work is carried to the latest 17th edition wiring regulations and Part P Building Regulations. dkp Electrics is fully insured and offers free quotes. Experience and planning expertise enables dkp Electrics to approach each electrical installation job in the right way and avoid unnecessary mistakes. Organisation, planning and communication are key tools brought to every job which in turn saves the customer time and money. For more information or to contact your local dkp Electrician, please visit: www.dkpelectrics.co.uk.