In the past, the common electricity meter was a mechanical energy meter. Over time, the mechanical parts of a mechanical energy meter, such as bearings and iron cores, will gradually wear out. In addition, dust will accumulate on these parts, increasing the rotational resistance of the mechanical parts. As a result, the meter will run slower, and with the extension of usage time and the increase of aging, the meter's measurement accuracy will decrease, thereby undercounting the electricity.
The emergence of smart meters has changed this situation. Smart meters are not only more sensitive, but also have good stability, a wide range and high sensitivity, and can accurately measure tiny currents. When the appliances in the home are not turned on but are in the power-on standby state, their central control board will continue to consume power. Smart meters can capture this tiny amount of electricity and measure it, and this part of electricity cannot be ignored when accumulated over a long period of time.
Therefore, compared with traditional mechanical energy meters, smart meters appear to "go faster", which makes many people feel that the electricity consumption at home has increased. In fact, this change is because smart meters are more sensitive and can monitor the power consumption that mechanical energy meters could not measure before.