Upgrading a gas meter in NSW is a simple process handled by your gas provider. It involves a technician visiting to replace your meter, taking 15-40 minutes with no service interruption.
Upgrading your gas meter is a key step towards enhancing the efficiency and safety of your home’s energy consumption.
Advancements in metering technology ensure a new gas meter provides accurate usage tracking, potential leak detection, and greater control over energy expenditures.
Consider replacing your existing gas meter for the following key reasons:
To ensure a proper changeover, upgrading your gas meter involves collaborating with qualified gas technicians. This article guides you through the process.
There are a few key situations where upgrading your gas metre may be necessary or recommended:
If you are installing any new gas appliances in your home, such as a new gas stove or hot water system, you may need to upgrade your gas meter to meet the heightened gas demand. Older metres may not be adequate for supplying multiple high-demand appliances.
It may be time to change your mechanical gas meter as it can lose accuracy and fail to provide correct usage readings over time. Upgrading to a smart digital metre gives you precise measurements of your household’s gas consumption.
Significant home makeovers frequently necessitate relocating your electricity meter and gas connection points. During renovations, a gas meter replacement may be offered under a replacement program, ensuring your new meter aligns with current standards.
New smart gas metres allow for remote monitoring and leak detection, providing an added level of safety. They give you more control over tracking your gas usage as well.
Upgrading your outdated or faulty gas metre ensures optimal supply to your home while giving you access to new smart metre capabilities. Consult a licensed gas technician or further investigate whether an upgrade to your meter is warranted.
Upgrading your gas metre requires applying through your gas provider and getting approval before the upgrade can proceed. Here is an overview of what’s involved in the application and approval process:
To commence the upgrade, you’ll be required to fill out a gas meter upgrade application form from your gas provider. In the application we’ll ask for particulars like your name, your address, current meter number, and your reasons for needing an upgrade.
The gas company will review your application and may contact you for any additional information needed. They’ll assess your situation and determine if you’re eligible for an upgrade.
The gas company may inspect your property to understand any changes needed for installing a new meter.
Once your application is approved, the gas provider will let you know in writing. This gives the green light to proceed with the metre upgrade.
With approval granted, you can then hire a qualified licenced gas fitter to purchase and install the new metre. Using a trained professional who can adhere to gas safety codes is critical.
Allow up to 20 business days for the approval process, which confirms that your gas infrastructure can support a meter upgrade.
Maintain the required clearances around the meter: at least 50cm in front, 30cm at the sides, and keep flammable items 1m away.
Make technicians aware ahead of time if there are any special access requirements like gate codes, dogs on the property, or height restrictions. This allows them to come prepared with the right equipment.
There may be upfront costs associated with the metre upgrade that you will need to pay the technician or plumbing company directly when they are on site.
Adequate preparation for installation leads to a faster, safer, and more efficient gas meter upgrade. Inform our customers of any preparation that’s not required at home, or if they have questions regarding the new meter installation.
During the gas meter upgrade, a skilled technician will replace your old meter with a new digital one. Here’s what to expect during the process:
The gas technician will arrive at the scheduled time, introduce themselves, review the work to be performed, and answer any questions you have. They will be in uniform and carry official identification.
The technician will assess the space between meter and fixtures and take photos for documentation. They will check that all safety clearances are met and that the piping appears in good condition.
Your gas supply to your home will need to be shut off at the meter before removal. The technician will let you know before turning off the gas so you can be prepared.
After turning off the gas, the technician will disconnect and remove your outdated mechanical meter. They will temporarily cap the gas line during the upgrade process.
Following the removal of your gas meter, the technician will install the new digital gas meter, perform leak tests, and confirm that it meets all specifications.
After installing the new smart meter, the technician will restore your gas supply. The technician will conduct safety inspections and relight your appliances where necessary.
Upgrading to a contemporary digital gas metre is a straightforward process carried out by qualified professionals. Let us know if you have any other questions or want to know more about what to expect during your meter installation!
Typically, a gas meter upgrade can be completed within 1-2 days. The usual timeline is:
Mortdale Plumbing will provide a tailored estimate for your specific upgrade and ensure an efficient process with minimal home disruption.
Upgrading your gas metre does involve some costs. Here are the main expenses to expect:
Your local gas provider may charge an application fee to submit a meter upgrade request. Approval and site inspection fees can also apply.
The new digital smart metre hardware itself will be a cost. Prices can range from $200 - $500 or more depending on the model.
Hiring a qualified gas fitter to install the new metre typically costs $150 - $300, varying based on complexity.
Extra parts like pipes, fittings, or regulators to upgrade old gas connections may be needed, at an additional cost.
At Mortdale Plumbing, we provide free on-site quotes so you know exactly what to budget for your metre upgrade. For a precise quote tailored to your specific needs, contact us via phone or email.
After the new gas metre installation is complete, there are some important steps the technician will take to ensure proper and safe operation:
The technician will perform pressure tests on the gas piping to check for leaks and confirm there are no issues. This involves pressurising the system and using a specialised device to detect any escaping gas.
After reinstating the gas, technicians will test appliances to verify that flames, pilot lights, and controls are functioning properly.
Vents and chimneys will be inspected to ensure there is adequate airflow for safe combustion and exhaust.
For smart digital metres with in-home displays, the technician will provide a briefing on how to read the metre, monitor usage, and access data.
You will be given a phone number to call in case of any gas leak or safety issue after the technician leaves. This number is monitored 24/7 by qualified personnel.
A follow-up check by your gas fitter after 30 days is advisable to confirm safe operation. Contact your provider if you detect performance irregularities.
The metre and piping should be shielded from weather exposure that could create slick surfaces or electrical hazards. Check that the metre area is covered and technician has safe footing.
Technicians will ensure the metre and service pipes are properly supported and guarded to prevent damage or stress on gas connections. Let them know about any support or guarding needs.
All potential ignition sources like pilot lights, cigarettes, lighters etc. must be extinguished or removed while the gas supply is shut off during the upgrade. This prevents any gas buildup from catching fire.
Technicians will wear appropriate protective gear like hard hats, gloves, eye protection, and steel-toe boots for their safety while working on or around the metre.
At Mortdale Plumbing, we prioritise both technician and homeowner safety through proper access, precautions, and adherence to all gas industry safety regulations throughout the metre upgrade process.
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