Working Pressure of Gas Meter

Here’s a detailed breakdown:

1. Common Gas Meter Pressure Ratings

Gas systems are categorized by pressure, and meters are built to match these categories.

User Type System Pressure Category Typical Max. Meter Working Pressure Common Actual Operating Pressure

Residential / Domestic Low Pressure 0.5 bar / 7.25 psi / 50 kPa ~1.3 kPa (0.2 psi) to 2.8 kPa (0.4 psi)

Commercial / Light Industrial Medium Pressure (MP) / Intermediate Pressure (IP) 2 bar / 29 psi / 200 kPa, or 4 bar / 58 psi / 400 kPa Varies by application (e.g., 7-14 kPa for large boilers)

Large Industrial / Utility High Pressure (HP) 7 bar / 100 psi / 700 kPa, or higher Varies significantly

Key Point: The Maximum Working Pressure (MWP) is the highest pressure the meter is designed to safely withstand continuously. The operating pressure is the pressure at which the system actually runs, which is always significantly lower for safety and proper appliance function.

2. How to Find the Exact Pressure Rating of Your Meter

The most accurate way is to check the nameplate or label on the gas meter itself. It will state the maximum working pressure clearly. Look for:

"MWP" or "Max. Working Pressure"

The value will be in kPa (kilopascals), bar, or psi (pounds per square inch).

3. Why is this Pressure Important?

Safety: The meter is a pressure vessel. Its design, materials, and manufacturing are certified to handle the MWP safely, preventing leaks or ruptures.

Accurate Metering: Gas meters are calibrated to be accurate within a specific pressure range. Operating outside this range can lead to inaccurate billing.

System Compatibility: The meter must be rated for the pressure in the gas main it's connected to. A low-pressure residential meter would be dangerously unsuitable for a medium-pressure line.

4. Who Controls the Gas Pressure?

You don't need to worry about the pressure being too high. The pressure is rigorously controlled by the gas utility company:

Regulators: Gas is transported in mains at a higher pressure for efficiency. Before it enters your home, it passes through a pressure regulator (often located on the gas service line or at the meter itself) that reduces it to a very low, safe pressure for your appliances.

Appliance Requirements: The regulator is set to provide the correct inlet pressure that your gas appliances (furnace, water heater, stove) are designed for. Tampering with regulators is extremely dangerous and illegal.