FAQ
TL;DR: Seeing 560 kWh PV production but odd meter splits? “12–14 kWh/day” usage plus wiring or register mix-ups can mislead. Check 1.8.0 (import) and 2.8.0 (export), then test by isolating loads before calling your operator. [Elektroda, nieprzysiadalny, post #18829517]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps PV owners with bi‑directional meters diagnose unexpected high consumption and resolve wiring or reading errors.
Quick Facts
- 1.8.0 = grid import; 2.8.0 = grid export. Read both before comparing to inverter output. [Elektroda, bryko, post #18770244]
- Reversed wiring on one phase can invert counts; 2.8.0 rising at night with loads is a red flag. [Elektroda, rfneo, post #18830860]
- Confirmed fix: operator corrected reversed phase wiring; readings normalized afterward. [Elektroda, rfneo, post #20336513]
- Example snapshot: 560 kWh produced, 400 kWh exported, 160 kWh imported over ~two weeks. [Elektroda, nieprzysiadalny, post #18829517]
- Some users saw 20–30% higher recorded use post‑PV; keep daily logs and escalate. [Elektroda, Slak68, post #18772107]
Why is my two‑way meter showing higher usage after installing PV?
Two‑way meters track import and export separately. 1.8.0 shows energy drawn from the grid. 2.8.0 shows energy sent to the grid. Self‑consumption from PV never appears under 2.8.0. Reading only 1.8.0 can look like higher use. Always compare 1.8.0, 2.8.0, and inverter production together. [Elektroda, bryko, post #18770244]
What do 1.8.0 and 2.8.0 mean on my bi‑directional meter?
On most smart meters, 1.8.0 = imported energy and 2.8.0 = exported energy. Read both on the same timestamp. Use differences between consecutive readings to get period values. Combine with your inverter’s production to estimate self‑consumption. [Elektroda, bryko, post #18770244]
Could my meter be wired incorrectly (reversed phase)?
Yes. One confirmed case had phase‑1 wires reversed. The operator corrected the wiring, and readings became accurate. If you suspect this, record readings with the inverter on and off, then contact your DSO for a visit. [Elektroda, rfneo, post #20336513]
How can I test if the meter is counting export as import?
Use this 3‑step isolation test:
- Turn off all household loads for a few hours; let only PV run.
- Turn off the inverter and energize one known load.
- Watch which register increases to confirm import or export direction.
This isolates wiring or counting issues. [Elektroda, starob, post #18829989]
Should I check P+ and P‑ by turning off the inverter?
Yes. “Turn off the inverter for a moment and see if the meter shows consumption (P+) or production (P-) of energy.” Compare with inverter logs. This quick check can reveal reversed flow indication. Note register values before and after the test. [Elektroda, bryko, post #18770413]
My inverter shows 560 kWh, meter shows 400 kWh export and 160 kWh import—does that add up?
Yes. Production equals export plus self‑consumption. With 560 kWh produced and 400 kWh exported, self‑consumption is 160 kWh. An import of 160 kWh suggests similar demand timing. Total consumption equals 160 kWh self‑consumed plus 160 kWh imported, or 320 kWh. [Elektroda, nieprzysiadalny, post #18829517]
The meter shows 20–30% more since PV went live. What should I do?
Log daily 1.8.0, 2.8.0, and inverter output. Capture a night baseline with PV off. If a 20–30% jump persists, file a formal complaint with your DSO. Provide dated logs and photos of readings. Request a meter check or witness test. [Elektroda, Slak68, post #18772107]
Can phase sequence or 3‑phase inverter wiring affect readings?
Yes. Incorrect phase orientation can flip import and export on a phase. A user confirmed phase‑1 wires reversed, and readings normalized after correction. Ask your DSO to verify phase order and polarity at the meter if you suspect miswiring. [Elektroda, rfneo, post #20336513]
How do I interpret early readings on an Iskra AM550 after PV install?
Record 1.8.0, 2.8.0, and inverter production on the same day. Example: 319 kWh produced, 122 kWh imported, 194 kWh exported. That user also observed about 20.5 kWh average daily usage. Compare sums to validate self‑consumption and grid exchange. Large gaps can flag wiring or logging errors. [Elektroda, rfneo, post #18829880]
Should I complain to the operator or install a check meter?
Yes. “Complain and request a meter check or install a borrowed meter… as a control.” A temporary reference meter helps document discrepancies. Share the comparison and logs with your DSO to speed resolution. [Elektroda, theo33, post #18769840]
What should I log daily to diagnose PV metering issues?
Log 1.8.0 and 2.8.0 readings, inverter production, and times when big loads run. Note inverter on/off events. “Give it precisely, e.g., daily,” to spot patterns and support a complaint. Consistent logs strengthen your case. [Elektroda, starob, post #18829602]
What if 2.8.0 increases at night when I turn on loads?
That edge case indicates reversed phase wiring. A user saw 2.8.0 climb at night when switching on the oven and kettle. Report this to your operator, such as Enea, for inspection. Ask to verify phase polarity at the meter. [Elektroda, rfneo, post #18830860]
I have a 4.48 kWp system; an early import of 350 kWh—normal?
Take it as a single data point, not a target. One 4.48 kWp owner reported 350 kWh imported early after commissioning. Compare with your 2.8.0 export and inverter totals to estimate self‑consumption. Investigate large mismatches using the checks above. [Elektroda, rengur, post #18770212]
My meter shows 5,246 kWh in three months. Could it be wrong?
First, confirm whether that figure is cumulative or just the period’s usage. Compare with your prior annual totals. If implausible, request a meter test and document 1.8.0 and 2.8.0 with photos. Escalate promptly to your DSO. [Elektroda, przemo500, post #20045293]
