Unauthorized Devices Near Meters
UGI Utilities has become aware of the installation of uncertified data gathering devices on or near customer natural gas meters. These devices are marketed as a service to help customers verify usage and billing; however, they pose a serious safety risk and must be removed immediately.
Why These Devices Are Unsafe
- Not Certified for Hazardous Locations
Natural gas meter locations are classified as Class I, Division 2, Group D hazardous areas under the National Electric Code (NEC Article 501) and AGA XL1001. Any electronic device installed at a gas meter must be certified for this environment. These third-party data gathering devices are not — in fact, many are explicitly marked “not for use in hazardous locations” by their own manufacturers. - Potential Ignition Source
Installing an uncertified electrical device near a natural gas meter introduces an ignition source in an area where flammable gas may be present under abnormal conditions such as leaks or equipment failure. This creates an immediate explosion hazard. - Federal and State Regulatory Violations
Federal Pipeline Safety Standards (49 CFR 192.353) require meters to be protected from ignition sources. As a Pennsylvania utility regulated by the PA PUC, UGI cannot permit non-compliant devices on its equipment. - Inaccurate Readings
These devices have also been found to produce inaccurate usage data, which can lead to billing disputes.
The Safe Alternative: A Utility-Installed Pulse Output Device
Customers who want to monitor their own gas usage, UGI can install an approved pulse output device directly on your meter. Here is how it works — and why it is safe:
- What is a pulse device?
A pulse output device is a utility-approved accessory built into or attached to the gas meter itself. Each pulse it emits represents a precise, fixed volume of gas that has passed through the meter — for example, one pulse per cubic foot. - How is the data read?
A separate data reader or energy management system, located at a safe distance from the meter, receives and interprets the pulse signals. Because the reader is kept away from the meter’s hazardous zone, it does not need hazardous location certification. The two components are connected by a shielded two-conductor wire and must not supply more than 12VDC, per Class I, Division 2, Group D hazardous location requirements. - Why is it safe?
Pulse output devices installed by UGI are tested and certified to meet Class I, Division 2, Group D hazardous location requirements. They are sealed, intrinsically safe, and designed specifically for use in natural gas metering environments — eliminating the ignition risk that uncertified third-party devices create. - Why is it accurate?
Because the pulse device draws its signal directly from the meter’s own measuring mechanism, the data it produces is the same data UGI uses for billing — giving customers a reliable, verifiable view of their consumption in real time.
What You Should Do
If an unauthorized data gathering device has been installed on or near your gas meter, please contact the company that installed the device, or a licensed contractor, and have it removed immediately. Do not attempt to remove the device yourself.
Important Safety Notice
If UGI becomes aware of unauthorized data gathering devices on or near UGI-owned natural gas meters, the meter may be disconnected to comply with Federal Pipeline Safety Standards (49 CFR 192.353).
If you are interested in monitoring your gas usage safely and accurately, contact your UGI Relationship Manger to ask about having a pulse output device installed on your meter.