Gas Meters

Gas meters measure units using one of two different methods, a metric unit count or an imperial unit count.

Accurate calculation of your gas bill relies on the type of meter you have installed in your home.

However, if you are unsure of which gas meter you have, below, we’ve outlined the meter types to help you identify which one you are using.

Imperial Gas Meters

Imperial gas meters measure units in cubic feet (ft3) and typically display the words ‘cubic feet’ or ‘ft’ on the front.

There are also two forms of imperial gas meter. The first is a digital type with odometer interface and the second using a dial or clock style reading interfaced.

Both forms are displayed below:

Imperial Gas Meters - Dials Imperial Gas Meters - Digital

Metric Gas Meters

Metric gas meters measure units in cubic meters (m3) and are much easier to identify.

Characteristics of metric meters often include the words ‘cubic meters’ or ‘m3’ on the display interface and they can often look more modern than their imperial counterparts.

The unit count of the metric meter below would be ‘14’ as partial units (displayed in the red border) are not included in your final bill calculation.

Metric Gas Meters

How To Read Your Gas Meter

Reading your gas meter is a quick and simple way to keep track of the units of gas you are using.

A digital meter reading includes all the digits before the decimal point. If your gas meter doesn’t include a decimal point, the decimal figures will be the numbers in the red portion of the interface (as shown in the above image).

Often, for ease of reading, the numbers you need are either white on a black background or black on a white background – with no red outline.

Gas meters with a dial interface should be read as a clock face. Remember to ignore the larger dial and dials marked ‘100 per rev’.

Furthermore, ignore any red dials and ensure you read all other dials from left to right.

Locating Your Gas Meter

Gas meter locations vary based on the type and age of your property.

If you’re living in a flat, you may find your meter in a cupboard or communal area such as a hallway or garden. Also, look for white boxes attached to the wall outside.

For most modern houses and converted flats, gas meters can be found either in the garden or a cupboard.

Older properties may have their gas meter under the stairs.

If you can’t find your gas meter, knock and ask a neighbour.

Other Tools

Need to calculate your other bills? Why not try our easy to use Electric Bill Calculator for estimating your electricity costs.

Or, try our brand new Water Bill Calculator which will help estimate your water bills.