What is meter creep?

“Meter creep” is a phenomenon in which a flow meter registers an incorrect measurement, usually an inexplicable increase whenever the pump is turned on, even when no fuel is being delivered. This error can occur for a number of reasons. Sometimes, it’s due to a build-up of oil in the hose piping caused by leakage, but it is more commonly caused by more systemic problems.

Temperature differences between the tanks and hoses can also be responsible – temperature drops in the hose can cause the fuel to contract, while hotter temperatures in the tank can cause it to expand, confusing the meter.

Meter creep can also be caused by simple technical malfunctions and glitches with digital displays. False readings are always annoying to deal with, so come and get your flow meter checked out with us if you suspect that anything is amiss.