Setting up electricity

Electricity in Israel is run by the Israel Electric Company (Hevrat Hashmal). You need to be set up before you move in, or the account stays in the previous tenant's name. STEPS • Ask your landlord for the account number and meter number. • Contact the company to transfer the account into your name. You can usually do this online, by phone, or with the company's app. • Take a photo of the meter reading on the day you move in. • Choose how to pay: bank direct debit, credit card, or bill pay. TIPS • You will receive a bill about every two months. • Keep your meter photo as proof of your starting reading. • If you share an apartment, put one person's name on the account and split the cost. • Note the 103 hotline for outages. GOOD TO KNOW • Israel uses 230V and plugs with two or three pins. Bring or buy adapters, and check that your electronics are dual-voltage. • Heating water often uses a solar water heater (dud shemesh) with an electric boost. Ask how to switch on the electric heater when needed.