An excess flow valve (EFV) is an enhanced safety device designed to automatically close and restrict natural gas flow if the service line or meter is severely punctured or damaged, causing a major pressure drop. Excavation is the primary cause of damage.
Excess flow valves are already installed in homes built after October 2010 or when natural gas service lines are replaced.
An excess flow valve will not protect against leaks inside a home or business, such as an appliance malfunction. If you smell natural gas inside your home, leave immediately and call 911 from a safe distance.
We are required by federal regulations to install an excess flow valve on all new or replaced natural gas service lines. The initial cost of installation is included in the charge for a new or replaced service line. Where EFVs are not already installed, it is the customer’s option to have the device installed at their expense.
Installation
The EFV is inserted in your natural gas service line, which runs underground from the main line to your meter, by a qualified installer contracted by Colorado Springs Utilities. Sometimes, an EFV cannot be installed because of high gas flow, low pressure or other factors.
If you request an EFV, we will
- Conduct a site visit to determine if it can be installed on your service line.
- Give you a cost estimate. Most installations range between $1,200 to $1,600 depending on the excavation and restoration required for a premise. The homeowner is responsible for the full amount before installation. There is no additional cost to the customer for maintenance of the excess flow valve.
- Schedule a convenient installation date and time.
Installation requires:
- A temporary interruption of service, typically a few hours.
- Limited access to your home (inside and out).
- The presence of an adult (18 years or older) to permit us to relight appliance pilots and conduct a safety check.
If you have questions, need additional information or would like to request an excess flow valve, contact customer service at (719) 448-4800 or via email at askus@csu.org.