Understanding Gas Meters: What Every UK Homeowner Should Know
At Gas-Go Heating, we believe that when it comes to your gas supply, knowledge is power — and it all starts with your gas meter.
Whether you're a homeowner, landlord, or business owner, knowing how your gas meter works (and what to watch out for) can help you spot problems early, avoid billing issues, and stay safe.
🔧 What Is a Gas Meter?
A gas meter is the device that measures how much gas you're using in your home or property. It sends readings to your energy supplier, who uses this information to calculate your bill.
In most UK homes, the gas meter is usually found:
- Outside in a wall-mounted meter box
- Under the stairs
- In a utility cupboard or kitchen
🔢 Types of Gas Meters in the UK
There are a few common types of gas meters you'll come across:
-
Standard (Imperial) Meters
Measure gas in cubic feet. These are older-style meters often found in older homes.
2. Metric Meters
Measure gas in cubic meters. They have a digital or dial-type display and are more common in newer properties.
3. Smart Meters
Automatically send readings to your supplier, so you don’t have to. They come with an in-home display to help you track usage in real time.
4. Prepayment Meters
Work on a “pay-as-you-go” basis using a key or card. Ideal for budgeting but can sometimes be more expensive.
⚠️ Gas Meter Safety: What to Look Out For
Your gas meter is a critical part of your gas installation – and like any gas appliance, it should be treated with care.
Keep an eye out for:
- Smell of gas – This is urgent. Call the National Gas Emergency Service immediately on 0800 111 999.
- Corrosion or rust – Especially on older outdoor meter boxes.
- Loose pipework or fittings – Can lead to leaks or pressure issues.
- Obstructions – Your meter should always be accessible in case of emergency or servicing.
If in doubt, always have a Gas Safe registered engineer, like Gas-Go Heating, inspect your meter.
🧾 How to Read Your Gas Meter
Knowing how to read your gas meter is useful — especially if you don’t have a smart meter.
- Imperial meters: Read the first 4 black numbers from left to right (ignore red numbers or those after the decimal).
- Metric meters: Read the first 5 numbers from left to right (ignore numbers after the decimal).
Submit readings regularly to avoid estimated bills.
🔄 Should You Upgrade to a Smart Meter?
Smart meters are becoming the new standard across the UK. They:
- Send automatic readings
- Help you monitor usage
- Can reduce estimated billing
- Work with both credit and prepay plans
We can help you understand if a smart meter is right for your home, or troubleshoot existing meter issues.
👷 Gas Meter Installation, Relocation & Repairs
At Gas-Go Heating, we don’t just service boilers – we also handle gas meter-related work, including:
- New gas meter installations (domestic and commercial)
- Meter relocations – inside or outside
- Gas pipe upgrades or rerouting
- Gas meter inspections & leak detection
All work is carried out by Gas Safe registered engineers, and we’ll always provide clear advice and fixed quotes upfront.
📞 Need Help With Your Gas Meter?
Whether you’ve got a leak or need to move your meter, Gas-Go Heating is here to help.
✅ Safe.
✅ Reliable.
✅ Local.
📱 Call us: 02393 782351 | 🌐 Visit: https://gas-go.uk
Gas-Go Heating – We Keep the Heat Flowing, Safely and Smartly.