How To & Troubleshooting

How To: Complete an Initial Meter Reading

Learn how to enter an initial meter reading on a site.

Summary:

When managing utility charges for guests, establishing a base reading on the site's utility meter is crucial. This guide provides step-by-step instructions for setting up a base reading in Campspot, ensuring accurate future calculations.

Uses:

This process is used to record the initial reading on the utility meter for a specific site, serving as the baseline for all future readings for that guest on that site.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Select the Site

  1. Navigate to Utility Metering
  2. From the Utility Meters tab (default landing page), click on the Site requiring the initial reading

On this form you will find a list of Meter Readings. If this is a site that has had readings in the past, there will be existing readings listed, if not, there will be no readings listed.

Screenshot 2023-10-10 at 3.24.31 PM

Step 2: Enter New Reading

  1. Click on New Reading
  2. Enter the base meter reading (from the example above, this would be 1200 kWh)
  3. Select the Reading Date (please see note below)
  4. Zero out the Total
    1. This indicates a baseline reading with no balance owed.
  5. Leave the Add to Invoice button unselected, as this $0 charge will not be applied to an invoice.

Please Note: Initial Reading Date

  • The initial, baseline reading cannot be posted on the same date as a first reading.
  • Select the day prior to the charge date when posting the Initial Reading.
  • Best practice is to set the date to the Check-In date for better records.

For example, if you have a reservation invoice due on 10/11 and you want to apply a meter reading, you will want to make sure the initial reading date is set to a date prior to the charge date - best practice would be set to the Check In date for better records. This way, the reading will be accurately reflected on the invoice for payment.

(See blank form below)

New Meter Reading Form

Step 3: Add Reading

  • Click the Add Reading button to add the reading to the meter.

Common FAQ:

Q: Why is setting up a base reading important?

Establishing a base reading is crucial for accurate utility charge calculations for guests, providing a starting point for all future readings.

Q: Can I post the initial reading on the same date as a first reading?

No, it's recommended to select the day prior to the charge date when posting the Initial Reading to ensure accurate reflection on the invoice.