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What to Do if Kenya Power Token Meter Gives “Reject Error” While Trying to Load Tokens

kenya power token meter

Encountering a “Reject Error” message on your Kenya Power token meter can be a frustrating experience, especially when you need to recharge your electricity. This error typically indicates that the meter is unable to process the token you’re trying to load, which can be due to several reasons. Understanding how to troubleshoot and resolve this issue is crucial to ensuring that you can successfully load your tokens and maintain a continuous power supply. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to take if you encounter a “Reject Error” while trying to load tokens.

Understanding the “Reject Error” on Token Meters

The “Reject Error” on a Kenya Power token meter usually indicates that the meter has rejected the token number you’ve entered. This can happen for various reasons, such as entering the wrong token number, communication issues between the meter and the CIU (Customer Interface Unit), or internal errors within the meter itself. Knowing how to address this issue promptly can help you avoid the inconvenience of being without power.

Step 1: Check and Replace the CIU Battery

One of the common causes of token meter errors, including the “Reject Error,” is a weak or depleted battery in the CIU. The CIU, which is the device you use to input tokens, relies on batteries for power. If the battery is low, the CIU might struggle to communicate effectively with the main electricity meter, leading to errors.

To resolve this, start by replacing the battery in the CIU:

  1. Open the battery compartment on your CIU.
  2. Remove the old batteries and replace them with brand-new heavy-duty batteries.
  3. Ensure the batteries are inserted correctly, matching the polarity indicated in the compartment.
  4. Close the battery compartment securely.

Step 2: Ensure the CIU Is Connected to a Powered Socket

After replacing the battery, make sure that the CIU is plugged into a powered wall socket. This is essential because even with a new battery, the CIU needs to be connected to a power source to function correctly and communicate with the main meter.

To check the power connection:

  1. Plug the CIU into a reliable and powered wall socket.
  2. Confirm that the socket is functioning by testing it with another device.
  3. If the socket is not supplying power, try a different socket or reset the circuit breaker if necessary.

Step 3: Input the Meter Reset Code

If the error persists after replacing the battery and ensuring a proper power connection, the next step is to input a reset code into the CIU. This code can help reset the communication between the CIU and the main meter, clearing any temporary glitches that might be causing the “Reject Error.”

To reset the meter:

  1. On the CIU keypad, enter the code 59698686.
  2. Press the “Enter” button.
  3. Next, input your meter number and press “Enter” again.

This process will reset the communication link between the CIU and the main meter, potentially resolving the “Reject Error.”

Step 4: Input the Default Key Change Code

After resetting the meter, you may need to input a key change code, which re-establishes the secure link between your CIU and the main meter. This code is crucial for ensuring that the meter can accept and process tokens correctly.

To input the key change code:

  1. Enter the code 1275 4194 1448 6450 5970 on the CIU keypad.
  2. Press the “Enter” button.

This sequence will update the meter’s encryption keys, which are necessary for accepting new tokens. If successful, your meter should be ready to accept new tokens.

Step 5: Confirm the Meter Is Ready and Load the Token

After inputting the key change code, the CIU should be ready to accept your token. You will know the CIU is ready if the display shows dotted lines or indicates that it’s awaiting input.

To load the token:

  1. Enter the 20-digit token number on the CIU keypad.
  2. Press the “Enter” button.
  3. Wait for the CIU to process the token and update your electricity balance.

If the token is accepted, your meter should show the new balance, and the electricity supply should be uninterrupted.

Step 6: Press the Red Button to Finalize the Process

Once the token has been successfully loaded, press the red button on the CIU. This action confirms the process and ensures that the token is fully loaded into the meter. The display should show your updated balance and the remaining units available.

Step 7: Troubleshoot Persistent Errors

If you’ve followed all the steps above and are still encountering the “Reject Error,” it may indicate a deeper issue with your CIU or electricity meter. In such cases, consider the following actions:

  • Recheck the Token: Ensure that you have entered the correct 20-digit token number without any mistakes.
  • Retry the Process: If you’ve made a mistake in any step, restart the process from the beginning.
  • Contact Kenya Power: If the error persists, it’s advisable to contact Kenya Power customer service for further assistance. They may need to reset your meter remotely or send a technician to inspect the meter and CIU.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Future Errors

To minimize the chances of encountering a “Reject Error” in the future, consider the following preventive measures:

  • Regular Maintenance: Regularly check the battery in your CIU and replace it when necessary. Always use heavy-duty batteries for optimal performance.
  • Keep Your CIU in Good Condition: Avoid dropping or exposing your CIU to water or extreme temperatures, which can damage the device.
  • Store Tokens Safely: Store your tokens securely and double-check them before entering to avoid input errors.

Conclusion: Ensuring a Seamless Token Loading Experience

Dealing with a “Reject Error” on your Kenya Power token meter can be an inconvenience, but by following the steps outlined in this article, you can resolve the issue and successfully load your tokens. From checking and replacing the CIU battery to inputting reset codes and key change codes, these steps are designed to troubleshoot common issues that cause the “Reject Error.” If the problem persists, contacting Kenya Power is the best course of action. By maintaining your CIU and following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and uninterrupted electricity supply in your home.