Sometimes Nicor Gas estimates your meter reading instead of taking an actual reading. When this happens, your bill is based on projected usage rather than measured consumption. Understanding how estimates work helps you manage your bills and catch potential issues.
Estimated readings are indicated on your bill with an "E" notation. While estimates are designed to be accurate based on your usage history, they can sometimes differ significantly from actual usage, especially during unusual weather or changes in household patterns.
Why Meters Get Estimated
Nicor may estimate your meter reading for several reasons:
- Access issues: Locked gates, snow accumulation, or obstructed meters
- Weather conditions: Severe weather preventing safe meter reading
- Indoor meters: No one home during scheduled reading
- Meter problems: Damaged or malfunctioning meter displays
Northern Illinois winters can make meter access particularly challenging, leading to more estimates during January-March.
How Estimates Are Calculated
Nicor calculates estimated readings using sophisticated algorithms that consider:
- Your usage during the same month in previous years
- Recent actual readings to establish current patterns
- Heating degree days (weather-based adjustment)
- Regional usage patterns for similar homes
While estimates are generally accurate, they may not account for changes in your household—new appliances, different occupancy, or changes in heating habits.
Correcting Estimated Bills
When an actual reading is taken after an estimate, your bill is automatically adjusted. If the estimate was too high, you'll receive a credit; if too low, you'll owe the difference.
Multiple consecutive estimates can lead to a large "catch-up" bill when an actual reading is finally taken. If you notice your bill has been estimated for 2+ months, consider submitting your own reading to prevent surprises.
Submitting Your Own Reading
Nicor allows customers to submit their own meter readings through their website or mobile app. This is especially useful if:
- Your bill has been estimated multiple months in a row
- You believe an estimate is significantly wrong
- Your meter is difficult to access (indoor, locked area)
To read your meter, record all digits on the display (ignore any red numbers). Submit this reading through Nicor's customer portal before your billing date.