Important Information – Excess Flow Valves

Beginning April 14, 2017, all gas utilities will be required to notify customers about excess flow valves (EFV) and install an EFV should the customer request one.

Explanation of the potential benefits of EFVs. EFVs are mechanical shut-off devices that can be installed in the gas pipe running to the gas meter at your property (the “service line”). An EFV is designed to stop the flow of gas if the service line is broken, for example, by an excavation accident. Stopping the flow of gas from a broken service line significantly reduces the risk of fire, explosion, personal injury, and/or property damage.

What won’t an EFV do? EFVs are not designed to close if a leak occurs beyond the gas meter (on house piping of appliances). EFVs also may not close if the leak on the service line is small.

Description of EFV installation. If you notify Alliant Gas that you want an EFV, we will contact you to set up a mutually agreed upon date to install an EFV on your service line. You will be billed for the cost of installing the EFV. The average installation cost is typically $500-$1000 but the actual installation cost will depend on the difficulty of installation. Alliant Gas will inform you of the actual cost before you make the final decision that you want an EFV.

Replacement cost recovery. If it becomes necessary to replace the EFV on your service line, you will be billed for the cost of replacing the EFV. Replacing an EFV can cost from $500-$1000 but the actual replacement cost will depend on the difficulty of replacement.

What might trigger a need to replace an EFV? EFV replacement may be necessary if you add additional gas appliances, such as an emergency generator, that could exceed the capacity of the EFV. EFV replacement may also be necessary if the EFV malfunctions (sticks open or closed). Industry experience has proven that EFVs rarely malfunction. EFVs cannot be installed on some service lines due to high gas flow, low pressure, or other factors. If you request an EFV but your service line cannot accommodate an EFV, Alliant Gas will let you know.

If you should have further questions about the EFV, you may call your local Alliant Gas office.