Fitting a new gas connection isn’t always as straight forward as you might think. That’s why 1Gas exists, to help make the process smoother. In this guide, we’ll offer hints about what we think you need to know to make the process as stress-free as possible.

Identify if an existing gas service pipe exists. A new gas pipe can be expensive and timely to connect. Therefore it’s worthwhile having a look around a building to check if an existing supply may exist which could be used. If there is a suitable pipe that could be used, it would save time and money. If not, we can help with quotes for new connections.

Decide if the meter will be sited internally or externally. Every property is different. You will need to decide whether the meter position will be inside the building or outside. Internal meters remove the requirement for an unsightly meter box however the benefit of external meters mean they are easier for meter readers to access and safer to turn off in the event of a fire or gas leak.

Choose a location for the gas meter. Normal requirements mean that gas meters should be on the front or back of a property nearest to gas mains access. If this isn’t suitable, the meter may be situated down the side of the property. In most cases, a gas meter must not terminate more than 2 metres down a side external wall, or no more than 2 metres into a property internally. Internal positions must be on an external (usually brick) wall.

Check the meter position is safe and complies with regulations. Some places are not suitable to install gas meters. These include internal walls of properties, less than 15 cm away from an electric meter, close to heat sources or sparks, subject to very high or low temperatures (including ice and snow), floors which are often wet, bathrooms or wet rooms, rooms where food is kept, under stairs (especially where it is the only fire escape), in boiler rooms, and where corrosive substances could have an impact. It is also crucial to ensure gas meters or their housing are not dangerous, an obstruction, or could be caused by damage to people or vehicles.
 Meters must also have enough ventilation to outside atmosphere.

Calculate your maximum demand of gas in kW (kilowatts)
. To work out your peak demand you need to add up the input rating or maximum kilowatt usage of each gas using appliance which you have installed or intend to in the future. If you’re not sure, you may need to consult with a device manufacturer or a Gas Safe engineer.

Choose a housing if the gas meter will be sited outdoors. External gas meters need to be housed in a box for protection from vandals and the weather. There are different types of meter boxes including bolt on, built in, semi concealed and free standing. More information can be viewed in our guide.

Pick a gas supplier. To fit a meter, a supply agreement must be in place prior to installation. This is to ensure that gas taken from the national grid is paid for. We can help you obtain gas supply prices.

Trench excavation
. If you opt to dig the trench for a gas service on private land (which can save money), this needs to be carried out correctly before our engineers arrive on site to prevent delays. Further information can be found by clicking here.

Arrange for site access on days of work. Engineers normally work between 8am and 6pm on weekdays. Occasionally weekend working can be provided for an extra fee if this will cause less disruption on site or if the council insist due to local conditions such as a school.
 An approved representative needs to be on site to greet engineers and approve works being carried out. Occasionally it may be necessary to grant approval to alterations in light of any unexpected changes.

Arrange an engineer to install and connect to appliances. When 1Gas completes the job, you will have a fully operational gas pipe connection to the mains and a meter which can be connected to by your plumber. They will be able to connect pipework to appliances and then commission apparatus for heating, cooking, drying such as boilers, fires, hobs, grills, driers, heaters etc.

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