When traversing the streets, it is very common to come across the sight of yellow gas boxes, such as those attached to the walls of an apartment building or attached to a fence. Does the type and colour of the gas box make a difference? Standards must be adhered to when building a gas installation, and this also applies to the dimensions and equipment of gas boxes. However, there are different products that comply with these standards.

The material does not affect the colour of the gas box

We distinguish between gas boxes made of metal or plastic. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages (in terms of features or operating costs). Metal boxes are manufactured from galvanised steel or stainless steel.
The material from which the cabinets are manufactured does not affect their colour.

• Gas box in galvanised steel is very well protected against corrosion. Unfortunately, it does not have an aesthetically pleasing appearance, which is why gas boxes made of galvanised steel are additionally powder-coated. After coating with paint, the box gains additional side benefits - an even stronger layer of corrosion protection, rigidity of the material - and the ultimate advantage: an aesthetically pleasing design and customised colour. Galvanised steel is a relatively cheap material.
• Stainless steel box is also perfectly protected against corrosion. This is made possible by the high amount of chrome in the stainless steel. This gas box has a sublime appearance, and the finish and colour of the gas box satisfy the aesthetic sense.

The biggest difference between stainless steel and galvanised steel is the price, and this often determines the choice.

Plastic boxes are manufactured from laminate or polypropylene.

• Polypropylene gas box is reserved for gas valves measuring approximately 25x30x17 cm. It is characterised by lightness, durability, ease of installation, a wide selection of colours and a low price.
• Laminate gas box is a competitively priced solution to other boxes. Above all, it is easier to assemble and transport, which is particularly noticeable when relocating larger box models that accommodate several gas meters. The popularity and competitiveness of laminate gas boxes is due to the properties of this plastic. Laminate is primarily a lightweight synthetic material, characterised by high durability, non-flammability and resistance to very high temperatures. The outer sides of laminate gas boxes are protected by an aesthetically pleasing layer of varnish. They are usually designed for one or more gas meters. There are also smaller variants for gas valves.

Location of the gas box

Based on the installation location, we divide gas boxes into: free-standing, wall-mounted, recessed and flush-mounted.

• Free-standing gas boxes are mounted in the field (e.g. on the property). They have their own supporting structure. Unlike other types of box, free-standing ones have a back wall (back). They are also sometimes set on a stand or pedestal. Stand takes the form of a simple, economical frame made of steel elements, usually standing on one or two legs. Pedestal is, in turn, a load-bearing element which also has a decorative function.

Free-standing gas boxes are also sometimes installed in fences. In masonry fences, both boxes with and without backs can be installed, but care must be taken to ensure that the measuring point is covered at the front and rear.

• Wall-mounted gas box is mounted on the walls of buildings - either on the surface of the façade or partially recessed in the façade or flush with the wall surface.
• Gas doors with frame are the cheapest solution to replace the gas box. A door can be used in a situation where the metering system is installed in a wall recess. The location allows for proper protection against external influences. Galvanised or stainless steel works best for its construction, as they give the most regular shape.
• Flush-mounted gas box is also installed in a recess - the wall of the building. Most often it is a simple gas box without a back wall, which is mounted inside the building façade.

What gas boxes do we have to choose from?

Gas boxes in standard dimensions specified by standards and manufacturers are available stationary. The dimensions of such boxes range from 60x60x25 cm (the most commonly purchased) to 100x60x25 cm. We can easily get boxes designed for one gas meter, two gas meters in a horizontal arrangement or two vertical gas meters.
If we need larger boxes (e.g. for three, four or five gas meters) - we have to make a reservation and or such a box individually. When ordering individually, you can usually also choose the colour of the box.

Crates only yellow?

Yellow gas boxes are still popular because the gas company, as part of the connection the customer pays for, provides just this type of box. However, the customer may choose to select a different box to the one supplied by the gas company, but then it is up to the customer to purchase a box that is suitable and adapted to local requirements. Cetel offers cabinets classic, in stainless steel, galvanised steel or plastic. On request, the cabinet can be powder-coated in any colour. When choosing the colour, you only need to use the RAL code, which allows you to set the precise colour. When making a customised box, it is also possible to choose the design of the door - you can set your own inscription or symbol. A custom-made box takes approximately three weeks to manufacture. Such an order is included in the production plan for both the production of typical gas boxes and other individual orders.

What else should be borne in mind?

Remember to contact the gas company before you buy the box to establish whether the gas box itself and its components (mono-coupling) comply with local guidelines, i.e. requirements that vary in some areas of Poland. Let's also make sure what certificates or declarations the gas company requires and whether such documents are available for our target gas box. If the requirements are not met or the relevant documentation is missing, the gas company may refuse to accept the metering point.

The gas box is an extremely important component in a gas installation. We have many types of gas box to choose from and, as you can see, we are not limited to the colour yellow either. Gas box manufacturers offer a wide range of typical boxes in different colours and, in some cases, accept orders for boxes in non-standard sizes and colours. Before purchasing or ordering, it is a good idea to familiarise yourself with the requirements in your area in advance and to contact the gas company regularly. You will also read about what to look for when choosing a gas box here.