The Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) has clarified the cause of the “bypass” error usually seen on the Customer Interface Unit (CIU).
When the error occurs on the CIU, customers are unable to load a token or perform any related activities on the device.
KPLC states that when the message appears on the CIU, the electricity meter is usually in tamper mode
“Your meter is currently in tamper mode, which is why it’s unable to operate normally, said Kenya Power,” KPLC replied to a costomer query.
Why Bypass Error Usually Appears on KPLC’s CIU
According to KPLC, the message display usually occurs due to tampering, a faulty meter, or connection issues.
Also Read: KPLC Manager Lists Top Token Consumers at Home and Tips to Save Your Power
“The ‘bypass’ message on your CIU (Customer Interface Unit) typically indicates that the meter is not functioning correctly and may have been tampered with or bypassed,” said KPLC.
The error is usually caused by technical faults, meter security interference, or incorrect household wiring.
“Tampering – The meter may have been tampered with, which is a serious issue.
Faulty Meter -The meter itself may be faulty and needs to be checked or replaced.
Connection Issues – There may be issues with the wiring or connections,” added KPLC.
If the error occurs, KPLC states that the customer should contact them immediately for assistance by providing the meter number or account number.
Kenya Power emphasizes that customers should avoid fixing the issues themselves or loading new tokens when the meter is in bypass mode.
For connection issues, the error happens when the neutral and earth wires are connected together in a socket.
- Neutral (N) carries current back to the grid
- Earth (E) protects users from electric shocks by safely grounding excess electricity
If the two are linked, the meter interprets the situation as a power diversion, triggering tamper mode.
This type of wiring fault can also result in:
- Immediate locking of the meter
- Failure to load electricity tokens
- Damage to appliances due to voltage instability
- Risk of electric shocks
Also Read: Kenya Power Posts Ksh 10.4 Billion Profit as Interim Dividend Rises to Ksh 0.30
How To Resolve the Bypass Error
To restore normal service, Kenya Power recommends that customers not attempt to fix the issue and instead, contact them immediately for assistance.
“Do Not Attempt to Fix It Yourself. This indicates a serious issue with the meter’s security. Contact KPLC Immediately Call us at 97771 or use the *977# USSD code for assistance. Our technical team will need to investigate the issue,” stated KPLC.
Affected customers can also visit the offices and get sorted, where a tamper code will be issued to clear the error.
A Kenya Power technician will also have to assess the issue by visiting the home where the connection was made to check on the tempered wiring.
Tips to Reduce Power Consumption
To reduce power consumption and save on tokens, KPLC advises its customers to employ practices including:
- Unplug devices when not in use to reduce power consumption
- Cooking in bulk and using energy-saving appliances for cooking
- Minimizing electric shower time
- Ironing clothes once or twice a week
- Regular maintenance of refrigerators and electrical wiring can also prevent unnecessary power losses
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