Gas Meter Error Codes — What They Mean

If your gas meter is showing an error code, don’t panic. Most error codes are informational — they tell you something needs attention, but they don’t mean your gas is about to be cut off. Here’s what the most common codes mean and what to do about them.

Why does my gas meter show an error code?

Smart gas meters run continuous self-checks in the background. When something falls outside normal parameters — a communication issue, a valve problem, a tamper alert — the meter flags it with a code on the display. Some codes resolve themselves. Others need action from you or your supplier.

Common gas meter error codes and what they mean

E01 — Communication error

Your meter is struggling to communicate with the Wide Area Network (WAN) — the system that sends your readings automatically to your supplier. This is one of the most common smart meter faults in the UK.

What to do: Check if your In-Home Display (IHD) is also showing an issue. If so, contact your supplier and report a communication fault. This is their responsibility to fix.

→ Smart gas meter not sending readings — what’s happening

E02 — Low battery

Your meter’s internal battery is running low. Smart meters have backup batteries for when mains power is interrupted. A low battery warning doesn’t affect your gas supply but should be reported to your supplier so they can arrange a replacement.

E03 — Valve fault

There’s an issue with the internal valve that controls gas flow. This is one of the more serious error codes — if you see E03, contact your supplier immediately. Do not attempt to investigate the meter yourself.

E04 — Tamper alert

The meter has detected a possible interference with its housing or magnetic field. This can sometimes be triggered accidentally by nearby equipment. Contact your supplier to report it — ignoring a tamper alert can result in your supply being suspended.

E05 — Pressure fault

The meter is detecting abnormal gas pressure. This could indicate a problem with your supply pipe or a fault with the meter itself. Contact your supplier and your gas network operator if you see this code.

CALL — Contact your supplier

Some meters display CALL instead of a numeric code. This is a general alert telling you to contact your supplier. Note down exactly what’s on the display when you call — it helps them diagnose the issue faster.

Flashing display or dashes

If your meter is showing dashes or a flashing display rather than a specific code, this is usually a different type of fault.

→ Why your gas meter shows dashes or a blank display

What to do if your error code isn’t listed here

Error code formats vary between meter manufacturers — Landis+Gyr, Honeywell, Elster and Secure all use slightly different systems. If your code isn’t listed above:

Take a photo of the display
Note your meter make and model (usually printed on the front)
Contact your supplier with both — they can look up the specific code for your meter type

When is an error code an emergency?

Most error codes are not emergencies. But if you see any error code alongside:

A smell of gas near the meter
A hissing sound from the meter or pipework
A display that has gone completely blank

— treat it as an emergency. Leave the property, don’t use any switches or flames, and call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999 immediately. This line is free and available 24 hours a day.

Not sure if your error code is serious?

Run a free Health Check and we’ll help you work out what’s happening and what to do next.

Start your free Health Check →

Think your meter needs replacing?

If your meter is repeatedly showing error codes and your supplier isn’t resolving it, you have rights.

Smart gas meter problems explained (hub) →

Generate a formal complaint letter →

Related help:

All advice on SmartMeterHelp is independent. We’re not affiliated with any energy supplier.