- Wednesday 04 February 2026
Do You Have a Nightsaver Meter? How to Check in Ireland
A Nightsaver meter (also called a Day/Night meter) charges two different electricity rates — a higher daytime rate and a cheaper night rate. Many Irish homes have these meters but don’t realise it.
If you use appliances overnight, a Nightsaver tariff could lower your electricity bill.
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What is a Nightsaver meter?
A Nightsaver meter records electricity usage in two periods:
- Day rate – higher electricity price
- Night rate – lower electricity price
The cheaper rate typically applies:
- Winter: 11pm – 8am
- Summer: 12am – 9am
This allows households to save money if they shift electricity usage into the night period.
How to check if you have a Nightsaver meter
There are several ways to check:
- Check your electricity bill – look for two readings labelled Day and Night
- Look at your meter display – it may cycle between two readings
- Check your tariff name – it may say “Day/Night”
- Ask your electricity supplier
If your bill shows two readings, you almost certainly have a Nightsaver meter.
When a Nightsaver tariff can save money
Day/Night tariffs work best if you can move a meaningful amount of electricity usage into night hours.
Examples include:
- Running the dishwasher or washing machine overnight
- Charging an electric vehicle
- Using night storage heating
- Heating water overnight
Learn more here:
Day vs Night Electricity Tariffs: Which Is Cheaper?
When a Nightsaver meter might not be the best option
If most of your electricity usage happens during the day, a day/night tariff may not reduce your bill. The daytime rate is usually higher than a standard tariff.
In these cases a standard plan or smart tariff could be better.
Smart Meter Tariffs in Ireland
How Nightsaver compares to other electricity tariffs
| Tariff Type | How It Works | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | One rate all day | Simple usage patterns |
| Day / Night | Cheaper electricity overnight | Homes that can shift usage |
| Smart Tariffs | Multiple time-of-use rates | EV, solar or flexible usage |
Should you switch electricity supplier?
If your discount has expired or you haven’t compared plans in the last 12 months, you could be paying more than necessary.
Switching electricity supplier does not change your power supply — the electricity still comes through the same ESB Networks grid.
How to Switch Energy Supplier in Ireland
Related electricity guides
- Cheapest Electricity in Ireland (2026)
- Electricity Rates Ireland
- Best Electricity Provider in Ireland
FAQs
What is a Nightsaver meter?
A Nightsaver meter records electricity separately for day and night usage. The night rate is cheaper and usually applies overnight.
What time does the night rate start in Ireland?
The night rate typically runs from 11pm to 8am in winter and from midnight to 9am in summer.
How do I know if I have a day/night tariff?
Your electricity bill will show two meter readings labelled Day and Night if you have a Nightsaver meter.
Is Nightsaver cheaper than a normal electricity tariff?
It can be cheaper if you move enough electricity usage into the night period.