Noise near Gas meter when heating is on?

Question

I've noticed lately that when I put the central heating on, there is a tapping sound coming from where the gas meter is. My gas and electric meters are in a cupboard in my living room (small terraced house). After the heating has been on for an hour or so, there is a tapping sound coming from that cupboard. It's very intermittant - sometimes constant tapping, other times nothing for a few minutes then starts. I thought it might have been water dripping from a pipe (as it sounds like that), but can't find any water near the pipes. And also it doesn't happen all the time so can't be a leaking pipe. What could it be?

Answer 1

It sounds like you have an old meter with a spinning dial, this would make the noise that you refer to, the more gas you are burning the faster it will go, if your worried about it call BG and let them know you have this problem.

Answer 2

Noisy Gas Meter

Answer 3

Sounds like the numbers in the dials changing. To find out for sure, just put a heavy blanket around the meter the next time you fire up the furnace and if the noise is quieter or not hear it at all, then that is what it is. Don't leave the blanket on the meter too long. It won't vent properly.

Answer 4

It could easily be the mechanism in the gas meter, they can make a clicking or ticking noise when operating as the flow of gas turns the mechanism.

Not usually anything to worry about, you can always call your gas supplier if you have any concerns. Remember that when your heating is on the burners do not run constantly, as they are controlled by a thermostat, so this is why it is intermittent.

Answer 5

That's the sound of the dials spinning around at 7000 rpm Revolutions Per Minute

Answer 6

Nigel has it right , if its a grey coloured meter it will be old and possibly worn and will be replaced anyway as part of our replacement programme (every 10 years now) .

No need to worry but if its getting on your nerves,give your supplier a call and they will arrange to get it changed,20 minute job.

Answer 7

It could be the meter spinning. If your concerned, just call the gas company and have them check it.

Answer 8

sounds like you may need to bleed your radiators, that could be down to the noise that you are hearing. get a cloth and bucket and bleed them, ring cloth out as you go.

Answer 9

Nigel is correct. Nothing to worry about; it is normal.