Smart Meters: A Help or Hindrance?

Emma Elston MBE • April 24, 2025

Some people think I’ve “moved over to the dark side” by switching to a smart meter, but with energy prices escalating, it’s actually been a game-changer for me. With a full house, it’s easy for others to overlook the costs of gas and electricity, but the smart meter helps me keep track of our household spend. It’s given me peace of mind, knowing I’m neither over nor under-paying. In these times of rising costs, it’s comforting to have that control over our energy usage.



That said, smart meters come with their own set of pros and cons. So, are they truly a benefit or a hindrance?

Benefits of Smart Meters:


  1. No More Estimates: Smart meters send accurate readings directly to your supplier, so you won’t get estimated bills.
  2. Real-Time Tracking: The in-home display shows exactly how much energy you’re using, helping you spot ways to cut back.
  3. Cost & Energy Control: Seeing your energy usage helps you make better decisions to reduce consumption and save money.
  4. Environmental Impact: By promoting energy efficiency, smart meters help reduce your carbon footprint.
  5. Better Tariffs: Which could lower your energy costs.


Downsides:



  1. Connectivity Issues: While older smart meters relied on mobile signals, newer models are much more reliable and work with a dedicated wireless network, ensuring better connectivity.
  2. Not Automatic Savings: A smart meter alone won’t lower your bills, it’s up to you to actively manage your energy usage.
  3. Over-monitoring: Some people may find themselves obsessing over every unit of energy used.

 

Conclusion:


Smart meters provide real-time insights into your energy use, ensuring accurate bills and offering control over household consumption. While they’re not a magic fix for lowering bills, they are a valuable tool for managing costs and reducing energy waste. For me, it’s all about staying in control during a time when every penny counts.

What Do Interest Rate Cuts Really Mean?

By Emma Elston MBE • August 28, 2025
The Bank of England has cut interest rates. But what does that actually mean for most of us? I n simple terms: Mortgage and loan payments might come down a little. Credit cards could be slightly easier to pay off. Savings in the bank will likely grow more slowly. Good news if you’re borrowing, not so great if you’re saving. But here’s the reality - An interest rate cut doesn’t reduce the cost of living. Energy, broadband, mobiles, and insurance bills don’t get cheaper just because the Bank of England changes rates. And that’s where the biggest savings are often hiding. At Miss Money Savvy, we offer a free, no-obligation review of your household bills to see where you could save. 9 out of 10 people save when we carry out a review. The average saving is around £70 a month (figures as of 20th August 2025). While interest rates go up and down, the one thing you can control is making sure you’re not overpaying on your everyday bills. What’s Behind Miss Money Savvy? We started Miss Money Savvy with one simple belief: people deserve to keep more of their hard-earned money. Too often, households end up paying more than they need to for everyday bills without realising it. Our job is to shine a light on where savings can be made, in a way that’s clear, friendly, and pressure-free. If we can help you cut your bills, brilliant. If not, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you’re already on a good deal. Because at the end of the day, it’s about making life a little easier and helping you feel more in control of your money. Book your free, no-obligation Household Bills Review today Free Review - Household Bills or call 0161 505 0979 and one of our team will be able to help.
A woman is sitting at a table using a calculator trying to ease her financial worries and regain control.

Small Steps to Ease Financial Worries and Regain Control

By Emma Elston MBE • March 16, 2025
As we juggle life, work, family, and all the other challenges that come with the current economic climate, it’s important to remember that we’re not alone.
Wilmslow Girls FC sponsored by Miss Money Savvy

Making a Real Difference

By Miss Money Savvy • March 1, 2025
Here at Miss Money Savvy we are commited to giving back to the local community.
How Online Shopping Boosts Mood and Can Create Addiction

How Online Shopping Boosts Mood and Can Create Addiction

By Emma Elston MBE • February 16, 2025
In today’s digital world, it’s easier than ever to open an app on your phone, scroll through social media, or browse an online shop and order something you’ve seen on TV or recommended by a friend. It takes just a few taps, and before you know it, a purchase is made—sometimes on impulse—without much thought. Then, the waiting begins.