Your gas meter is an eyesore, and you’d rather not look at it every time you go outside. But what can you do? You can’t just remove it, and you don’t want to spend a lot of money on a custom cover. Fortunately, there are a few simple and affordable ways to hide your gas meter without breaking the bank. Keep reading to know more.
One of the easiest ways to hide your gas meter is to plant a hedge or bushes around it. This will create a natural barrier that will block the view of the meter. You can also use a trellis or arbor to support climbing plants, which will further camouflage the meter. If you don’t have the space for a hedge or bushes, you can use a large planter to create a screen. Simply fill the planter with soil and plants, and place it in front of the meter. The plants will grow up and cover the meter, creating a more attractive and discreet look.
Another option is to build a small fence or enclosure around the meter. This will provide a more permanent solution than planting, and it will also give you more control over the look of the area. You can use a variety of materials to build the fence, such as wood, metal, or plastic. If you’re handy, you can even build a custom enclosure that matches the style of your home. No matter which method you choose, hiding your gas meter is a simple and affordable way to improve the look of your yard.
4. Hiding the Meter Behind a Fence or Wall
Concealing the gas meter behind a fence or wall is an effective and relatively simple approach. By enclosing the meter within a fenced area or behind a wall, you can deter access and minimize its visibility.
Fencing Options
| Fence Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Privacy Fence | Blocks the meter from view and prevents tampering | Can be more expensive and require permits |
| Lattice Fence | Provides some privacy while allowing sunlight to penetrate | Less effective at deterring access |
| Chain-Link Fence | Durable and cost-effective | Does not provide privacy and can be unsightly |
Wall Considerations
- Choose a material that complements the exterior of your home, such as brick, stone, or vinyl.
- Ensure the wall is tall enough to conceal the meter and prevent access.
- Leave an access panel for maintenance and meter readings.
When installing a fence or wall, remember to consider the height and setback requirements set by your local building codes. Additionally, it is important to maintain access to the meter for regular readings and maintenance.
Burying the Meter Underground
Burying your gas meter underground is a great way to hide it from view and protect it from the elements. However, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure that the meter is properly installed and ventilated.
Here are the steps on how to bury your gas meter underground:
1. Choose a location for the meter that is at least 10 feet away from any building or other structure. The location should also be in a well-drained area that is not prone to flooding.
2. Dig a hole that is 2 feet deep and 2 feet wide. The hole should be deep enough to accommodate the meter and its base. Ensure to level the loose soil at the bottom of the hole.
3. Place a layer of gravel at the bottom of the hole. The gravel will help to drain water away from the meter.
4. Set the gas meter on the gravel. Make sure that the meter is level and that the inlet and outlet pipes are facing the correct direction.
Fill the hole with dirt and tamp it down firmly. The dirt should be packed tightly around the meter to prevent movement. Ensure there is no dirt or rock on the meter lid.
Alternative Option: Installing the Meter in a Box
If you don’t want to bury the meter underground, you can install it in a box. The box should be made of weather-resistant material and should be large enough to accommodate the meter and its base.
The box should be installed at least 10 feet away from any building or other structure. The location should also be in a well-drained area that is not prone to flooding.
Mount the meter on the base inside the box, then connect the inlet and outlet pipes. Make sure all pipe joints are sealed to prevent gas leaks.
Designing a Custom Meter Enclosure
A custom meter enclosure can be a great way to hide your gas meter while still providing easy access for maintenance. Here are a few tips for designing your own:
1. Choose the right materials. You’ll want to choose materials that are durable and weather-resistant, such as PVC, vinyl, or metal.
2. Consider the size of your meter. Make sure the enclosure is large enough to accommodate your meter, but not so large that it’s bulky or unsightly.
3. Choose a style that complements your home. There are many different styles of meter enclosures available, so choose one that matches the architecture of your home.
4. Install the enclosure properly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure that the enclosure is installed correctly and securely.
Hiding the Enclosure
Once you’ve designed and installed your custom meter enclosure, you can take steps to hide it from view. Here are a few ideas:
5. Plant a hedge or shrubs around the enclosure.
6. Build a fence or screen to surround the enclosure.
7. Use a trellis to cover the enclosure with plants.
8. Paint the enclosure to match the color of your house or landscaping. Consider using a neutral color such as beige, gray, or green. You can also paint the enclosure to match the color of your fence, deck, or other outdoor features.
How To Hide Gas Meter
There are a few ways to hide a gas meter. One way is to plant a shrub or small tree in front of it. Another way is to build a small fence or latticework around it. You can also paint the meter the same color as the surrounding fence or wall to make it less noticeable.
People Also Ask About How To Hide Gas Meter
Can I put a cover over my gas meter?
Yes, you can put a cover over your gas meter, but it must be a vented cover. This will allow the meter to breathe and prevent any gas buildup.
How do I hide my gas meter from the street?
One way to hide your gas meter from the street is to plant a shrub or small tree in front of it. This will create a natural barrier that will help to block the view of the meter.
