FAQ
TL;DR: OTUS3 export stuck? If 2.8.0 shows 0.6 kWh, "you just didn't give anything to the network"—or wiring is wrong. To check, compare 1.8/2.8, PV output, and use a brief PV disconnect test. [Elektroda, PUH_HESTA, post #18629684]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps Apator OTUS3 owners and PV prosumers read export data and troubleshoot wiring or configuration issues fast.
Quick Facts
- OBIS codes: 1.8.x = import kWh; 2.8.x = export kWh; check 2.8.0 for total export. [“Kody licznika dwukierunkowej”]
- A miswired tie-in before the meter can bypass readings; export won’t increment until corrected. [Elektroda, piotrrs, post #18655699]
- Pre‑meter connections risk being treated as electricity theft, with penalties to the owner. [Elektroda, Slawek K., #18657925]
- OTUS3 diagnostics are limited: recessed kWh LEDs, no USB host for local reads. [Elektroda, PUH_HESTA, post #18657237]
- Some OTUS3 installs expose two scroll buttons; long‑press access may be disabled. [Elektroda, piotrrs, post #18625000]
How do I read exported energy on an Apator OTUS3?
Use the OBIS code list. Exported energy total appears under 2.8.0 on bidirectional meters. Cycle the display using the scroll buttons until 2.8.0 shows. If tariffs are used, additional export registers may exist. Record start and end values to compute export. [“Kody licznika dwukierunkowej”]
What if 2.8.0 stays at 0.6 kWh for weeks?
That often means you have not exported energy. One expert noted, "you just didn't give anything to the network." Confirm by checking other registers and your inverter output. If loads are low during high production but 2.8.0 does not change, investigate wiring. [Elektroda, PUH_HESTA, post #18629684]
How do I quickly verify whether I’m exporting correctly?
Do this controlled three-step check during steady sunlight.
- Note 1.8 import indication and your inverter’s live production.
- Briefly disconnect the PV at the isolator or inverter switch.
- Recheck 1.8 and 2.8.
"The easiest way is to check the power consumption… then disconnect the PV." [Elektroda, PUH_HESTA, post #18631381]
What does code 2.6.0 show on this meter?
Users reference 2.6.0 as a "maximum" register. If it reads zero, a maximum may not be recorded yet. Or the register is unused in your configuration. Check 2.8.0 first for export totals, then your DSO’s list. [Elektroda, PUH_HESTA, post #18629684]
Could a miswired PV system send energy straight to the grid, bypassing the meter?
Yes. In the thread case, the inverter output was connected before the meter. All generated energy flowed to the grid and never incremented 2.8.0. The utility and installer corrected the wiring after coordination. Watch for lack of export accumulation when production is high. [Elektroda, piotrrs, post #18655699]
How can I detect that kind of bypass without opening sealed enclosures?
Observe behavior during production. Turn off the home’s main supply and watch the inverter status. Note whether production stops or displays a grid error. This field check helps locate where the PV ties in relative to the meter. Do not break seals. [Elektroda, edziu, post #18631438]
Who is liable if PV is tied in before the meter?
One contributor warned, "this is treated as theft of electricity," with penalties. He also said the owner is responsible. Contracts may assign paperwork to the installer, but verify obligations. Keep records and notify the DSO promptly if you discover miswiring. [Elektroda, Slawek K., #18657925]
My meter shows two scroll buttons and long-press does nothing. Normal?
Yes, configurations differ by utility. Some registers are locked. One user reported two buttons and that holding the scroll did nothing. Read-only access is common on utility meters. Cycle with short presses to reach 2.8.0. [Elektroda, piotrrs, post #18625000]
Why are LED pulse tests unreliable on the OTUS3?
The kWh LEDs sit deep and are not clearly separated. Another limitation is the lack of a USB host for diagnostics. Use OBIS readings or inverter data instead of pulse counting. [Elektroda, PUH_HESTA, post #18657237]
What simple data should I log to resolve disputes with the installer or DSO?
Log daily start and end of 1.8.x and 2.8.x. Take inverter screenshots during steady sun. Record dates, times, and photos of seals. In the thread, coordination between PGE and the installer led to a fix. [Elektroda, piotrrs, post #18655699]
During midday I saw 2.7 kW production and only small loads. What next?
With 2.7 kW production and just a fridge and laptops on, expect export. If 2.8.0 does not increase, escalate with your installer and DSO. Share readings and photos. This scenario matched the thread’s early symptoms before wiring was corrected. [Elektroda, piotrrs, post #18630389]
Any takeaways for supervising installation work?
The summary notes the installer tied in at an open pre‑meter fuse box. The door opened without breaking a seal. Supervise critical connections and verify closure integrity with your DSO. Document everything during commissioning. [Elektroda, piotrrs, post #18821716]
Where can I find a code list for my bidirectional meter?
Use a bidirectional meter code guide. It explains standard OBIS entries, including 1.8.x and 2.8.x for totals. Keep it handy during diagnostics. [“Kody licznika dwukierunkowej”]
