Not everyone knows that gas meters come in different sizes. Which one a business should get depends on its individual needs. From this guide, you can find out everything you need to know about gas meter sizes, including how they measure gas and what gas meters in different sizes can do. Understanding which gas meter size is the best for your business is crucial when setting up energy supplies and installing new meters at the business’s premises.
Basics of gas meters
A gas meter can be described as a specialized flow meter that measures the volume of fuel gases. These fuel gases include propane and natural gas. Gas meters can only measure Actual Volumes. There are three different Actual Volumes. If pressure and temperature are known, the actual volume can be converted to standard volume. There are three Standard Volumes that are the same.
When it comes to natural gas, one quantity of gas can occupy different volumes depending on temperature and pressure. That means that gas density changes when pressure and temperature change. That’s why the use of regulated volumes when referring to gas quantities is extremely important. The two common standardized volumes are:
- standard cubic feet (scf) – 1 cubic foot of gas at 0 °C and 14.6959 PSI
- normal cubic meters (Nm3) – 1 cubic meter at 20°C at 101.325 kPa
Based on the type and size of the meter they have different pressure, flow rates, and rangeability. The rangeability is also referred to as turndown and it describes the range in which a particular meter can accurately measure gas.
Types of gas meters
The volumetric flow rate of gas can be measured with many different gas meters. Each meter type can detect the type of gas and various flows. An overview of how the common types of gas meters are built can be found in the table below.
| Type of Meter | Description |
|---|---|
| Diaphragm Meters | have four measurement chambers linked together the measurement chambers form a whole separated by a deformable wall that is a diaphragm |
| Rotary Displacement Meters | consist of two rotating impellers that are placed opposite each otherthe impellers are placed inside a housingthe impellers don’t touch each other during the rotation |
| Turbine Meters | consist of a gearwheel system, a turbine wheel, an extrusion section and a sealed housing unitthe gearwheel system leads the meter’s index |
How does each type work?
- Diaphragm Meters
In Diaphragm Meters, both diaphragms are connected to each other and, through a rotating piston, they lead to the counter. If the volume of each chamber is known beforehand, the quantity of gas that passes through the meter can be measured directly.
Diaphragm meters are mainly used by domestic customers as they have low pressure (0-100 PSI) and low flow rates. They also have large rangeability (Qmax/Qmin = 160).
If a measurement error ever occurs it is likely to be caused by the leakage of both the moving parts and the diaphragm. The potential leakage can lead to a low flow range and cause lower meter readings.
Diaphragm meters sometimes come with pulse generators that transmit meter readings.
- Rotary Displacement Meters
The impellers in Rotary Displacement Meters are positioned so that the gap between them and housing is very small, no matter what position they are in. Similarly to the Diaphragm Meters, if the volume of each chamber is already known, the quantity of gas can be measured directly. Most of the time, you will know exactly what is the volume of each chamber in Rotary Meters.
Rotary Displacement Meters have medium Pressure (0-175 PSI in most models), and medium to high flow rates. They can also reach high rangeabilities (Qmax/Qmin = 250).
The downside of this type of gas meters is that they pulsate during measurement. That’s because gas molecules constantly run through the meter during calibration. The pulsations can sometimes result in measurement errors. To avoid that, you can use silencers. Another drawback of Rotary Meters is that they are sensitive to dust particles and their parts are very fragile. That’s why being careful during installation is very important.
- Turbine Meters
When gas flows through the meter, the turbine wheel starts to rotate. The rotation of the turbine wheel is proportionate to the velocity of the flow, so the quantity of gas can be measured according to the rotation of the turbine wheel.
These types of meters can include multiple pulse generators. Turbine meters have the highest Pressure (up to 1480 PSI) amongst all the meter types, and they also have high flow rates. Their turndown is poor compared with other meters.
Any measurement errors can be a result of the small mechanical damages caused by friction in the gearwheel system. Turbine meters are typically installed at premises where large gas quantities are used.
Meter sizing
Each of the discussed meter types comes in different sizes. The overview of the sizing for each meter type can be found in the table below.
| meter type | sizing |
| Diaphragm meters | sized based on the actual gas flow ratesized using delivery pressure and required flowhave limited connection size optionsmost meters only have one possible connection size |
| Rotary meters | sized based on actual gas volume flowrate minimum flow rate is required to measure gas to save costs a smaller meter at a higher pressure can usually be used |
| Turbine meters | sized by volumetric flow rate have specified minimum and maximum flow rates |
To determine what size of the gas meter you need, you have to take into consideration several factors:
- Type of your premises – is it, for example, an office, a commercial building, or a small shop?
- Your highest demand for gas at any given moment – is also referred to as a gas load or maximum capacity.
- Distance from the gas meter to appliances – gas pressure lowers the more gas has to travel.
- The number and type of appliances that use gas – it’s possible that if you have a lot of appliances you will need a bigger meter.
What size gas meter do I need?
The gas load is different for each customer. Nevertheless, the highest demand for gas of a typical household is 30 kilowatts (kW). That varies, however, if a house has more rooms and more radiators.
Small businesses can have requirements similar to domestic customers. Commercial buildings, on the other hand, typically use much more gas. Medium-sized businesses often use between 70 kW and 150 kW, and the biggest ones 1000 kW or even more.
Diaphragm meters are the most commonly used. Almost all residential and small commercial customers use them. Diaphragm meters come in 7 sizes:
| Meter Type | Flow Rate kW | Capacity (SCMH) Standard m3 | Capacity (SCFH) Standard cf |
|---|---|---|---|
| U6 | 0-65 | 6 | 212 |
| U16 | 66 – 173 | 16 | 565 |
| U25 | 174 – 271 | 25 | 883 |
| U40 | 272 – 430 | 40 | 1412 |
| U65 | 430 – 704 | 65 | 2296 |
| U100 | 705 – 1083 | 100 | 3511 |
| U160 | 1084 – 1733 | 160 | 5650 |
Why is it important to get the right size of the gas meter?
When choosing a meter size, it is recommended that the maximum flow rate is no more than 80% of the maximum capacity of the meter. Otherwise, it might not work properly. It is impossible to choose one size of the meter that would be appropriate for all businesses. It is important that a meter can pass through the volume of gas your premises require. If you have the wrong size of the meter installed, the functioning of your business can be negatively affected. Replacing the wrong meter can be expensive and take a lot of time so before you install the first one, make sure it’s the right size.
Common Questions
Is a U16 gas meter domestic?
A U16 is a small diaphragm meter. It is usually used for commercial applications, but it can sometimes be installed also at domestic properties. The name consisting of ‘U’ and a number is applied to all Diaphragm Gas Meters and explains what the meter capacity is. It’s expressed in Standard Cubic Metres per Hour. That means that the capacity of a U16 meter is 16 cubic metres per hour.
What is a U6 gas meter?
U6 is a diaphragm meter that is the most common domestic meter. U6 refers to the capacity of the meter, which is 6 cubic metres per hour. It’s a low-pressure meter that has a flow rate of 0 – 65 kW.
How do I know what size gas meter I have?
When your meter is being installed, engineers will determine its size. They will calculate it based on the total capacity of the premises gas appliances. You can ask them about the size once the installation is finished. Later on, the gas meter’s capacity can be checked by looking at its label. It’s expressed in cubic feet per hour (cf/h). Typically installed gas meter sizes range from 175 cf/h to 275 cf/h.
What happens if gas meter is too small?
If the meter is too small, your appliances might not be getting enough gas and they might not function properly. Similarly, your options to buy new appliances might be limited.
How do I upgrade a gas meter?
If you want to upgrade your gas meter, you need to call your utility provider. They can send a technician who will come and replace your old meter with a new, bigger one. Your utility provider can also help you calculate your total gas demand and based on that advise you what size of the meter will be the best.
What size gas meter do I need?
Determining the appropriate size gas meter is crucial to ensure your gas supply meets your needs efficiently. Several factors, such as gas flow, pressure, and the types of appliances you use, influence the selection of the right gas meter size. An experienced engineer can assist in the installation process and evaluate your gas demand accurately.
When considering gas meter size, take into account the gas load of your premises, including appliances like boilers, ovens, and heaters. The distance from the gas meter to these appliances and the gas pressure in your area are essential considerations. A diaphragm gas meter, such as a u6 meter, is commonly used for various gas load requirements, accommodating both residential and small commercial setups.
Calculating the volume of gas needed per hour, measured in cubic metres or cubic feet, aids in determining the optimal gas meter capacity. If your gas demand exceeds the capacity of your current meter, you might require a larger meter to prevent issues such as insufficient supply and pressure drops.
To ensure safety and compliance, consult a gas safe engineer who can accurately assess your gas needs and recommend the right gas meter size. By taking all these factors into account and selecting the appropriate meter, you can effectively manage your gas consumption, avoid excessive standing charges, and maintain efficient gas supply in accordance with industry standards.
Why is it important to get the right size of the gas meter?
Getting the right size gas meter is of paramount importance for several reasons, especially when considering various factors related to gas supply, usage, and safety. An appropriately sized gas meter ensures that your gas appliances, whether in residential or commercial settings, can function optimally and efficiently.
The size of the gas meter, often referred to as the meter size or gas meter size, directly affects the volume of gas that can pass through it. If the meter is too small for your gas load, it can lead to insufficient gas supply, reduced pressure, and inadequate performance of your appliances. On the other hand, using a meter that is too large may result in unnecessary costs and wasted energy.
An experienced engineer, familiar with different meter types such as diaphragm gas meters like the u6 model, can help calculate the gas flow, pressure, and load to accurately determine the right size. This calculation involves factors like the distance from the gas meter to your appliances, the type of gas being used, and the expected gas demand in cubic metres or cubic feet per hour.
Choosing the correct size of the gas meter ensures that your gas supply matches your usage needs, preventing issues such as pressure drops, insufficient gas flow, and potential safety hazards. It also helps you avoid unnecessary costs, as the right meter size can contribute to more accurate billing based on your actual gas consumption. Therefore, getting the right size of the gas meter is crucial for maintaining a reliable and efficient gas supply in accordance with safety regulations and industry standards.
What do you know about your business gas meter?
Understanding your business gas meter is essential for managing your energy usage effectively and ensuring the smooth operation of your commercial activities. The gas meter size, or meter size, plays a crucial role in determining the capacity of your gas supply and how much gas can pass through it per hour.
Whether you’re dealing with a diaphragm gas meter like the u6 model or other types of gas meters, the right size is key. An experienced engineer can help calculate the gas flow, pressure, and load to ensure your meter accommodates your gas demand. This calculation takes into account factors like the distance from the gas meter to your appliances, the type of gas being used, and the volume of gas needed.
Proper installation of the gas meter and the associated gas pipe is vital to maintain the safety and efficiency of your gas supply. An appropriately sized meter ensures that appliances such as turbines, which require a certain gas flow in cubic metres or cubic feet per hour, function optimally.
Additionally, understanding the pressure, kilowatt (kw) usage, and capacity of your meter is crucial for accurate billing. Having a gas meter that is too small can lead to insufficient gas supply and increased pressure, potentially affecting the performance of your gas equipment.
Regular monitoring and checking of your gas meter’s readings, flow rates, and usage patterns are important to avoid any discrepancies in your gas bill. By staying informed about your business gas meter and its specifications, you can make informed decisions about gas usage, equipment upgrades, and energy-saving measures, ultimately contributing to more efficient and cost-effective operations.
Why is it important to check my electric or gas meter?
Regularly checking your electric or gas meter is of paramount importance for maintaining efficient energy usage and accurate billing. Your gas meter, be it a diaphragm gas meter like the u6 model or other types, comes in various sizes, each designed to accommodate specific gas flow rates and pressures.
By understanding the meter size and gas meter size, you can ensure that your gas supply meets the demands of your appliances and equipment. A properly sized gas meter prevents issues like insufficient gas supply, pressure imbalances, and overuse, ultimately saving you from unexpected gas bills and ensuring smooth operations.
Whether you’re dealing with commercial gas or residential electricity, an engineer’s expertise during installation ensures the right meter type and size are chosen for your premises. Accurate calculations based on factors such as gas load, pressure, and distance from the gas meter are vital to determine the right size and capacity.
A gas meter that’s too small can lead to increased pressure, affecting the performance of gas equipment. On the other hand, oversized meters can result in unnecessary standing charges and higher bills. Monitoring the gas meter’s performance helps you gauge your gas demand, and detecting issues like leaks or inefficiencies in appliances.
By staying informed about your gas meter’s capacity, flow rates, and gas usage, you can make informed decisions about energy consumption, equipment upgrades, and cost-saving measures. This proactive approach, involving regular checks and adherence to meter specifications, ensures efficient energy use, reduced wastage, and accurate billing – contributing to both environmental sustainability and financial savings.
Why Should You Get A Gas Meter Installed?
Getting a gas meter installed is a fundamental step for effective energy management, especially when dealing with commercial gas usage. Understanding the gas meter size, such as the u6 diaphragm gas meter or other types, and its capacity is crucial to ensure a consistent and adequate gas supply for your needs.
An experienced engineer handles the installation process, taking into account factors like gas flow, pressure, and appliance compatibility. They’ll determine the right meter type and size based on your specific requirements. Calculating the gas load and volume of gas consumed helps choose the appropriate meter that can accommodate your usage patterns.
Proper sizing of the gas meter prevents issues like insufficient gas supply and potential pressure imbalances. It’s essential to consider factors such as gas demand, the distance from the gas meter to your appliances, and the right pressure levels to guarantee optimal performance.
Having the right gas meter size also ensures accurate billing, as it reflects your actual gas consumption. This is particularly important for commercial settings where efficient energy usage impacts the bottom line. Monitoring gas flow rates, pressures, and ensuring the meter’s proper function help you avoid unnecessary expenses and manage costs effectively.
A well-installed gas meter, whether it’s a diaphragm gas meter, rotary meter, or other types, allows you to track gas usage, optimize consumption, and make informed decisions about energy-efficient equipment and practices. By getting the right gas meter installed and maintaining its proper function, you can effectively control gas usage, reduce wastage, and save on costs – all while contributing to a more sustainable energy approach.
Are there different types of meters?
There are various types of gas meters available to suit different gas supply needs, each with unique features and capabilities. When considering meters, it’s important to take into account factors like gas flow, pressure, and usage patterns to ensure you choose the right one for your specific requirements.
One common type is the diaphragm gas meter, such as the u6 meter, which is often used for small commercial settings. Diaphragm meters are known for their accuracy and reliability in measuring gas consumption. They accommodate a range of gas loads and are suitable for medium pressure applications.
Another type is the rotary meter, which measures gas flow using rotating mechanisms. These meters are often used for larger gas demands and can handle higher flow rates. They are commonly found in industrial and commercial settings where gas demand is significant.
Turbine meters are designed for precise measurement of high gas flow rates, making them suitable for applications where gas usage varies widely. They work by using a turbine to measure the flow of gas, and they are often used in scenarios where accurate measurement is crucial.
Different gas meters, whether diaphragm, rotary, or turbine, come in various sizes to accommodate different levels of gas consumption. It’s important to choose the right size gas meter based on factors like the volume of gas needed, the types of appliances you have, and the maximum flow rate required.
Selecting the appropriate gas meter type and size, along with proper installation by a qualified engineer, ensures an efficient and reliable gas supply. This choice impacts your gas bill accuracy, equipment performance, and overall energy management. It’s essential to work closely with a gas safe engineer to assess your gas demand and make an informed decision on the right meter for your premises.