Why a Split-Meter Gas System May Be the Right Choice for Your Generator InstallationExpert Advice from Meyer Electrical Services
As homeowners across the Washington, D.C. metro area invest in natural gas-powered generators for emergency backup, it’s important to understand how these appliances affect your home’s gas system. Modern generators and other high-efficiency gas appliances often have greater fuel demands and stricter pressure requirements than older systems. That’s where a split-meter system may come in—and Meyer Electrical Services is here to walk you through every step of the process.
Why Upgrading Your Gas Service May Be Necessary
When you install a new gas generator or upgrade your existing natural gas appliances, it’s essential to verify whether your current gas line and meter can handle the additional load. Many new appliances have higher BTU (British Thermal Unit) input ratings and may require higher gas pressure than your home’s existing system can provide.
At Meyer Electrical, we take a thorough and safety-first approach to every installation:
- BTU Load Verification: We start by verifying the total BTU input rating for your existing appliances and the new generator.
- Gas Pressure Check: Next, we determine the pressure requirements recommended by the generator manufacturer.
- Service Line Assessment: We then work with Washington Gas to assess your service line’s capacity and pressure to ensure your home can safely accommodate the additional load.
If the existing infrastructure falls short, a split-meter system may be the best solution.
What Is a Split-Meter System?
A split-meter system is an advanced configuration where Washington Gas installs an additional meter—or reconfigures the existing one—with two separate regulators. This allows for dual pressure outputs:
- 2 PSIG (pounds per square inch gauge) for high-demand equipment like gas generators.
- 7.0 inches water column for standard household appliances such as water heaters, stoves, and furnaces.
This setup ensures that each appliance gets the correct pressure it needs to operate safely and efficiently, without compromising the existing gas system.
When Is a Split-Meter System Recommended?
A split-meter gas system isn’t necessary for every home, but in many cases, it’s the smartest and safest option for generator installation. Here are three key reasons Meyer Electrical may recommend it:
- Inadequate Existing Piping
Older or lower-pressure gas lines inside your home may not be adequately sized to handle the added demand of a new gas generator. A split-meter allows us to bypass this limitation by running a new line directly from the meter to the generator. - Higher Pressure Requirement
Many modern generators require higher gas pressure (2 PSIG or more) than your current system delivers. A split-meter enables this increased pressure without disrupting the existing low-pressure piping for your other appliances. - Easier and More Cost-Effective Installation
In some cases, running new gas piping directly from a new meter is simpler, faster, and more affordable than modifying the home’s existing system. It also minimizes disruption to your household and reduces the need for extensive retrofitting.
The Process: What to Expect When You Work with Meyer Electrical
Here’s a look at how we manage the installation process from start to finish:
- Evaluation & Consultation
Our team evaluates your current gas setup, reviews appliance specifications, and discusses your generator needs in detail. - Communication with Washington Gas
We coordinate with Washington Gas to confirm service line capacity and pressure. If a split-meter is deemed necessary, we handle the request process. - Submission of Forms
Either Meyer Electrical or the homeowner submits the Added Load / Split-Meter Request Form to Washington Gas for review. - Scheduling & Installation
Once approved, Washington Gas will contact the homeowner to schedule the meter installation and advise whether any additional costs apply. - Final Installation & Testing
We complete the gas line installation to the generator, perform pressure tests, and ensure everything is running safely and efficiently.
Trust Meyer Electrical for Safe & Efficient Generator Installations
At Meyer Electrical, we pride ourselves on offering expert solutions tailored to each client’s needs. Whether you’re installing a new generator or upgrading your home’s gas system, our licensed technicians ensure every step meets local codes, safety standards, and manufacturer requirements.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out if a split-meter gas system is right for your home. Our team will handle the technical details—so you can enjoy peace of mind with a reliable backup power system in place.