gas meter location

smu_diddly · Sep 18, 2012

I looked at a job today to add a new shower circuit. The c.u is close to the gas meter, less than the 150mm recommended. It is not going to be possible to move it as the customer won't pay the cost. Seeing as im altering an existing circuit not changing the c.u does anyone know if I have to put in a barrier or not? If so any ideas what to use?

Many thanks

Octopus · Sep 18, 2012

If its built like that I'd venture to suggest that its OK.

telectrix · Sep 18, 2012

agree^^^^

rsp84 · Sep 18, 2012

Have rang gas safe before, on the basis from the gas meters view, and its down as ncs. Or to rectify this, adequet electrical insulation placed inbetween the two would be ok. If it posses no risk of danger, it should be ok.

chris murphy · Sep 19, 2012

smu_diddly said:
I looked at a job today to add a new shower circuit. The c.u is close to the gas meter, less than the 150mm recommended. It is not going to be possible to move it as the customer won't pay the cost. Seeing as im altering an existing circuit not changing the c.u does anyone know if I have to put in a barrier or not? If so any ideas what to use?

Many thanks

"Hello smu_diddly,

From a Gas Engineers point of view the Gas Safety Regulations / Installation practices pertaining to this distance between the Consumer Unit and a Gas Meter / Gas Meter Regulator [`Governor`] are regarding a possible Fire at the Consumer Unit.

Obviously a Fire at the Consumer Unit could still affect the adjacent Gas Meter in many situations whether it was 150mm away from the Gas Meter or any other distance - especially in an understair cupboard or other enclosed area / cupboard - but that is the minimum requirement / distance without a partition.

Although it is stated that a partition must be both ` Non Combustible` AND `Electrically Insulated` - So there is obviously an Electrical reason also - I have never seen this Electrical requirement explained / defined in any written form.

Regards,

Chris - Heating Engineer and Gas Safe Registered Gas Engineer

lamb · Sep 19, 2012

Fix a sheet of paxoline cut to size, corner braces bolted thru sheet and screw and plugged to the wall. Just add the cost to you bill to cover costs (eg. £20 nominal charge).