A Closer Look at the Smart Meter
July 29, 2026
Washington Gas is introducing builders and developers to the smart meter, a next‑generation gas meter with a smaller physical footprint and built‑in digital capabilities compared to traditional diaphragm meters.
These smart meters are currently being installed on select residential projects as part of controlled pilot programs, allowing builders to see the meter in real‑world conditions while the utility evaluates performance and field integration.
Addressing Space and Appearance Constraints
In some residential applications, particularly townhomes and multifamily buildings, exterior wall space can be limited, and traditional gas meter assemblies may be more visually prominent than desired.
The smart meter partially addresses these constraints with a reduced footprint and a more streamlined profile. In tighter exterior conditions, this can provide additional placement flexibility while maintaining standard meter-set practices.
Embedded Capabilities and Network Enablement
The Intelis smart meter is manufactured with advanced capabilities built into the meter hardware. Use of these capabilities depends on the availability of supporting network infrastructure. Once supporting networks are available, installed Intelis smart meters can utilize these capabilities without requiring meter replacement.
Built‑in capabilities include:
Integrated shutoff valve
Pressure sensing
Reverse‑flow detection
High‑flow and high‑temperature alarms
Onboard self-diagnostics
Flexible RF communication options
Meter Performance and Safety
The Intelis smart meter supports typical residential delivery pressures and load requirements:
7” w.c.: up to 325 CFH
2 psig: up to 354 CFH
The meter carries a Class I, Division 1 intrinsic safety rating and provides solid‑state measurement accuracy of ±0.5% at room temperature.
Smart Meters in the Field
Smart meters are currently installed in the field as part of approved pilot programs, providing real‑world installation experience and visibility into how the meter looks once mounted.
Park Ridge West (Manassas, VA): Smart meters have been installed on completed homes as part of a pilot installation, allowing builders to see the meter’s appearance once mounted.
Additional pilot installations are underway on other residential developments, with meter quantities and set dates coordinated through standard project workflows.
Looking Ahead
The smart meter is a step forward in gas metering, combining a more compact exterior with built-in digital capabilities while still fitting within standard residential installation practices. Its streamlined design and integrated features reflect how metering technology is evolving alongside modern residential construction.
Current pilot installations give Washington Gas the opportunity to assess how the smart meter performs in the field, while also giving builders a clear view of its form and functionality once installed.