Radio Teleswitch (RTS) project

New weather compensation switch

New weather compensation switch installed.

Radio Teleswitch (RTS) meters were introduced in the 1980s. They are older electricity meters that utilise radio signals to switch between peak and off-peak rates. These meters have now reached the end of their operational life. The radio signal and its supporting infrastructure was decommissioned on 30 June 2025.

The RTS project entailed replacing these meters. They managed approximately 5,000 electrically supplied council properties.

The replacement featured a more efficient weather compensation system. This will reduce the amount of heat that is wasted and help to save residents money on their bills.

The work was conducted in electrical cupboards in communal areas of housing blocks, resulting in minimal downtime.

Frequently asked questions SHOW

Why did we do these works?

The Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) was introduced in the 1980s by the BBC and is now reaching the end of its natural operational life. This means that the equipment that produces the radio signal can no longer be adequately maintained. The RTS was designed to support those who use electricity for their heating and hot water. This equipment will stop functioning by the end of 2025. However, over the past few months, Southampton City Council has been replacing all of these RTS switches in their properties and this is now complete.

Why did this need to be replaced?

Those with RTS meters may have lost all heating control and hot water where it was controlled by RTS. There could also be an unlimited amount of heating that is uncontrolled, which could result in significant overheating.

Will my charges increase for heating and hot water?

No, the intention of the new RTS meters is to reduce energy consumption in the building and our collective carbon footprint. Your bills will not change as a direct result of changing the RTS meter.

What does this mean for me?

The provision of your heating and hot water will continue as normal.

How does the Smart Load Switch work?

The Smart Load Switch acts as a gate between the meter and the heaters. It either allows the signal to pass to the heaters or stops it. This reduces the charging period of the heaters during warmer weather and prevents energy from being wasted.

What is weather compensation?

Weather compensation uses the future weather forecast to determine the charge needed for the storage heaters to provide optimum heating. This technology was previously used by the old RTS. However, the new Load Switch is more efficient and accurate.

Will I still get hot water regardless of the weather at no extra cost?

Yes – hot water is provided regardless of the external weather temperature. The system will operate and perform as per the previous one. The system will always provide one full tank of water per day, which is sufficient for normal household consumption. If you require more you can use the boost button to turn on the immersion heater, but this is powered by your own electricity supply and not included in the heating charge.