Meter Reading and Measurement Flashcards

What is the purpose of a meter bypass valve?

Answer: To allow gas to flow around the meter for meter replacement or testing without interrupting customer service

A meter bypass valve allows gas to continue flowing to the customer through an alternate path while the meter is removed, tested, or replaced.

What federal regulation governs the accuracy requirements for natural gas meters used in billing?

Answer: State public utility commission regulations and ANSI/AGA standards

Gas meter accuracy for billing is primarily governed by state public utility commission regulations and industry standards such as ANSI B109 and AGA measurement standards.

What is the 'index' on a natural gas meter?

Answer: The register or display showing accumulated gas volume consumed

The index is the meter's register or display—a series of dials or a digital counter—showing the cumulative volume of gas that has passed through the meter.

What does it mean when a gas meter 'registers zero' or fails to advance?

Answer: The meter may be stuck, bypassed, or there is a connection issue that requires investigation

A non-advancing meter index when gas is being consumed indicates a possible meter malfunction, bypass, or theft of service that requires field investigation.

What is 'meter set assembly' in natural gas distribution?

Answer: The combination of meter, inlet and outlet valves, regulator, and associated piping at a customer location

A meter set assembly is the complete installation at the customer service point, including the meter, shutoff valves, pressure regulator, and connecting piping.

At what pressure is a residential natural gas meter typically tested for accuracy by most utilities?

Answer: At or near the normal operating pressure of the meter (typically around 0.25 to 2 psig for residential)

Residential meters are tested for accuracy at pressures representative of their normal operating range, typically in the low-pressure distribution range.