4.7-Stars based on 216 Reviews

24/7 Emergency

Introduction to Gas Meter Upgrades

Upgrading gas meters is a crucial process that can lead to increased efficiency and reduced energy costs. Kenthurst Plumbing specialises in gas meter upgrades and installations, tailoring our services to meet your property’s requirements with expertise. Based in Kenthurst, Sydney, we have comprehensive knowledge about new technologies and extensive experience servicing homes and businesses in the region.

Reasons to upgrade your gas meter include:

  • Your current meter is outmoded and no longer efficient
  • You wish to switch to a smart meter to enhance reading accuracy and streamline billing
  • You’ve made significant changes to your gas supply or appliances
  • Routine replacement as mandated by your gas provider’s meter replacement program

The latest models are more precise, indicating the necessity to upgrade your meter to minimize the likelihood of being overcharged for your gas use. Smart metres also allow for remote readings, eliminating the need for manual metre readings. Most importantly, Upgrading an outdated gas meter enhances safety and ensures reliable gas flow to your appliances.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll detail all you need know about the process of upgrading your residential or commercial gas metre. Whether you choose to upgrade proactively or are notified by your gas provider, we’re here to help make the transition smooth and painless.

We’ll outline the step-by-step procedure, what to prepare for at your home when upgrading, the projected timeline, associated costs, and more insights.

Reasons for Upgrading Your Gas Meter

There are various compelling situations where you’ll need to consider upgrading your gas metre:

Enhanced Accuracy

Newer gas metres utilise advanced technology to provide more precise measurements of your household’s gas usage. This helps ensure you are billed accurately for the gas you consume.

Improved Safety Features

Modern gas meters enhance safety with features such as automatic shutoff valves. You can read more about the strict testing that new metres undergo to ensure your safety and their dependability.

Potential Energy Savings

A more precise gas meter can lead to energy savings by helping you identify and curtail wasted energy. Upgrading to a smart meter is a forward-looking choice for homeowners.

Reliability

Mechanical components in older meters can deteriorate over time, affecting functionality. An upgraded meter promises long-term reliability with precise measurements.

Remote Reading

Digital gas meters support remote readings by the utility company, facilitating convenience. This eliminates the need for a technician to manually check your metre every billing period.

At Kenthurst Plumbing, we are devoted to our customers, offering seamless replacement of outdated metres with new, feature-rich models. Please contact us today for a comprehensive understanding of gas metre upgrades!

Safety Concerns with an Outdated Gas Meter

An outdated or faulty gas metre can present serious safety hazards. Here are some of the main risks to be aware of:

Gas Leaks

Old metres may develop cracks or seal failures that allow gas to leak out. Gas leaks are extremely dangerous as leaking gas can accumulate undetected and lead to explosions or poisoning.

Inaccurate Readings

Metres that are outdated or deteriorating can necessitate the need to change your household’s gas usage measurements. This means you could be significantly overpaying or underpaying your utility provider.

Fire Risk

Faulty metres may cause fluctuations or interruptions to your gas supply. This can result in your appliances operating unpredictably, increasing the risk of fire.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

If an old metre is providing inconsistent gas flow, it could cause your appliances to produce excessive carbon monoxide. Exposure to carbon monoxide is life-threatening.

Regular inspections and timely upgrades are essential; ensure your electricity and gas needs are managed effectively and worry-free. Our licenced gas fitters can swap out your outdated unit with a modern, safe option when you’ll need an upgrade.

We also offer full safety inspections of your entire gas system. Don’t take risks with outdated equipment - contact Kenthurst Plumbing to upgrade today!

Overview of the Gas Meter Upgrade Process

Upgrading your residential or commercial gas metre is a straightforward process that involves just a few key steps:

  1. Application Submission - The upgrade journey begins when you ask yourself, 'do I initiate contact with my gas provider?' and proceed with submitting a request for a metre upgrade. This can usually be done online, over the phone, or by email.
  2. Site Inspection - In some cases, your gas provider may send an inspector to examine your existing metre setup and ensure there are no obstacles to upgrading.
  3. Scheduling - Your gas provider will schedule a time with you for a licenced technician to come and replace your old metre.
  4. Metre Replacement - On the scheduled date, a technician will turn off your gas supply, remove the old metre, install the new metre, and restore your gas service.
  5. Inspection & Relighting Appliances - You or the technician will relight your gas appliances and ensure there are no leaks. The technician will also Record the final meter reading.
  6. New Metre Activated - It can take up to 20 business days for your new metre to fully activate in the utility billing system. You may get an estimated bill until the new readings begin.

Although the steps can differ among providers, this summary gives you an understanding of the upgrade process. In the following sections, we’ll break down what to expect during each stage and discuss how to prepare your home or business for a seamless gas metre upgrade.

Preparing and Submitting an Application

Here are the key steps involved in this initial application stage:

Check Eligibility

First, contact your gas provider to determine if you’re eligible for a metre upgrade. They may have specific requirements in order to qualify.

Gather Necessary Information

Make sure you have all the required information on hand before starting your application, such as:

  • Your account details
  • Service address
  • Details of your existing gas metre
  • Proof of identification

Complete Application

Your gas provider will have a specific application process to follow, which may involve:

  • Filling in online forms
  • Providing the required documentation
  • Booking an inspection if needed

Await Approval

Once submitted, your gas provider will review your metre upgrade application and notify you if it’s been approved. The approval process, part of the meter replacement program, can take up to 20 business days.

At Kenthurst Plumbing, once you submit your initial application we’ll assist you through all subsequent stages. We’ll ensure all required information is in order, liaise with your gas provider, and help fast-track your application. Contact us today to get started upgrading your gas metre!

First, contact your gas provider to determine if you’re eligiblesing by the Gas Provider

Once your application for a gas metre upgrade is submitted, it will undergo an assessment and approval process by your gas provider before installation can proceed. Here is an overview of what to expect:

Review of Application

Your application will be reviewed by the gas provider to confirm eligibility and the required details, such as account standing, historical gas usage, and verification of address and meter type.

Site Inspection (If Needed)

For specific upgrades, an inspection may be necessary to assess your meter setup and gas lines. This helps identify any issues that need addressing or obstacles to installing the new metre.

Safety Checks

Part of the assessment includes conducting safety checks, especially crucial for homes with life support equipment that depends on a stable gas supply. They will evaluate whether upgrade work would disrupt gas service to households who rely on uninterrupted supply for medical reasons.

Approval Process

The gas provider will complete their evaluation and either approve or deny your application based on eligibility, safety, and resource availability. Approval can take between 5 to 20 business days.

Scheduling the Upgrade

After approval, a technician will contact you to schedule the meter change, usually within 1 to 4 weeks.

At Kenthurst Plumbing, our gas fitting team can expedite the assessment and approval process using our strong relationships with local gas providers. Contact us today to upgrade your gas metre quickly and hassle-free.

Once your application for a gas metre upgrade is submitted, it will undergo an assessment and approval process by your gas provider before installation can proceed.

Clear Access to Metre

Make sure the area around your gas metre is free of clutter or obstructions. This ensures technicians have clear access, crucial for the streamlined removal and installation process.

Secure Pets

Secure pets to prevent interruptions during the installation. This precaution ensures they don’t need to be at home potentially disrupting the technician’s crucial work.

Turn Off Appliances

Switch off and unplug any gas appliances like water heaters, stoves/ovens, and fireplaces. The technician will need to shut off gas supply during the upgrade.

Ventilate Area

Ensure natural airflow by opening windows and doors near the gas metre, a small but significant step to safeguard your energy system during the installation. This allows for proper ventilation when gas needs to be shut off.

Have Payment Ready

If there are costs associated with your meter upgrade, have a payment method ready for the technician’s service.

Taking these preparatory steps allows the gas metre installation to go smoothly and safely. Let us know if you have any other questions as you get ready for your upcoming metre upgrade!

The Installation Process

On the scheduled day, a licensed gas fitter will perform all necessary safety measures before commencing the installation. This includes putting up safety barriers around the work area and using gas detection equipment to check for leaks.

The area around the gas lines will be inspected and any issues resolved before installing the new metre.

They will then unbolt the old metre and remove it, taking care not to damage any connected gas lines or pipes.

The new gas metre will be securely fitted in place and connected to the gas supply line. While we oversee the complex aspects, the fitter will employ specific methods to ensure integrity. Once the new metre is installed and all safety checks are completed, the gas supply will be turned back on.

The technician will relight any extinguished appliances and conduct the final meter reading. You’ll be requested to certify the completion of the installation. And with that, your upgraded gas metre is installed and ready to go!

Timeframes and Costs

The timeframe for a gas metre upgrade can vary depending on your provider and location, but the typical process takes 4-8 weeks from application to completion. Here are some general timeframes to expect:

  • Application Processing: 5-20 business days for your gas provider to review and approve the upgrade request.
  • Installation Date: The gas provider will schedule the upgrade 1-4 weeks after the application is approved.
  • Metre Replacement: The installation process generally takes between 2 and 4 hours from the technician’s arrival.
  • Final Activation: It takes up to 20 business days after install for the new metre to fully activate in the utility billing system.

As for costs, there is typically no charge for a standard gas metre replacement when initiated by your provider as part of their regular maintenance programmes. However, fees can range from $500-$1500 if you request a premium smart metre upgrade.

At Kenthurst Plumbing, our gas fitting team can provide a more accurate timeline and quote tailored to your specific upgrade requirements. Contact us today to learn more about upgrading your gas metre!

After Installation and Final Checks

After installation, a series of checks will ensure your new gas meter functions correctly:

Gas Supply Restored

The gas fitter will restore your gas supply and carefully relight all gas appliances.

Leak Checks

The fitter will use leak detection fluid or electronic gas detectors to thoroughly check for any leaks in the system.

Appliance Function

All gas appliances will be tested to verify they are igniting and operating normally without any flame issues.

Final Metre Reading

The gas fitter will take a reading of the new metre and provide documentation of the completed work.

At Kenthurst Plumbing, our licenced professionals complete all necessary checks and testing to ensure your new gas metre is fully functional and compliant with all safety regulations. Contact us for comprehensive installation and post-upgrade support.

Upgrading to Smart Meters

Upgrading to a smart gas metre offers several key benefits:

Real-Time Monitoring

Smart metres allow both you and your gas provider to monitor gas usage in real-time. This enables better energy efficiency and leak detection.

More Accurate Billing

Smart metres precisely track your gas consumption and automatically send usage data to your provider. This eliminates estimated billing and ensures you only pay for gas used.

Outage Alerts

Smart metres can notify both you and the gas provider immediately if an outage occurs. This allows for faster response and restoration of gas service.

No Manual Metre Reads

Upgrading to a smart metre is easy with the help of Kenthurst Plumbing’s licenced gas fitters. We handle the entire installation process and ensure your smart metre is activated and communicating properly. Contact us today to upgrade and unlock the many benefits!

Upgrading to a smart gas metre offers several key benefits:

Smart metres allow both you and your gas provider to monitor gas usage in real-time.

Smart metres precisely track your gas consumption and automatically send usage data to your provider. This eliminates estimated billing and3>

Smart metres can notify both you and the gas provider immediately if an outage occurs. Thi

News & Information

Sustainable gas solutions future
Sustainable gas solutions for the future

There are several promising options for sustainable gas solutions to power the future while reducing emissions. These include renewable gas, green hydrogen produced from renewable electricity, and biomethane from organic waste.

Questions Hiring Gas Fitter
Questions for Hiring a Gas Fitter

When looking to hire a qualified gas fitter, make sure to ask if they are properly licensed, insured, experienced, offer warranties and can provide references. Getting estimates, specialties and details on what’s included in writing is key.

Consequences Neglecting Blocked Drain
Consequences Of Neglecting A Blocked Drain

Neglecting a blocked drain causes water damage, mold growth, bacteria buildup, foul odors and health issues. Call Kenthurst Plumbing to professionally clear blocked drains before permanent damage.

Do you need a Kenthurst plumber?

Shield

Address

Kenthurst, 2156 NSW

Contact Our Plumbers

We will call back as soon as possible.

Plumber
Footer
Call Now!