Excess Flow Valve

Notice to Customers Re Excess Flow Valves

In accordance with recent federal pipeline safety regulations, the company is required to notify all customers of the new excess flow valve (EFV) requirements. Effective April 14th, 2017, EFV installation requirements are expanded to include new or replaced service lines to single family residences, multifamily residences and small commercial customers with natural gas volumes not exceeding 1,000 standard cubic feet per hour.

Under the regulations existing customers also have the right to request the installation of an EFV on their service line. The cost of installing the EFV may be at the expense of the customer and individual estimates will be provided upon request. Customer may request the installation of an EFV on their gas service line by submitting the form on the link below.

What is an Excess Flow Valve?

An EFV is a mechanical shut-off device installed in the service line designed to stop the flow of natural gas in the event that the service line is completely cut, torn apart or otherwise separated, typically caused by some type of excavation or digging, downstream of the EFV. Stopping the flow of natural gas from a broken service line significantly reduces the risk of a natural gas fire, explosion, personal injury and property damage. EFV’s are installed on the service line near the connection to the natural gas main.

What won’t an Excess Flow Valve do?

EFV’s are not designed to close if a leak occurs after the gas meter (on house piping or appliances). EFV’s also may not close if the leak on the service line is small.

What specified conditions allow for the installation of an Excess Flow Valve (EFV)?

Installation requirements apply new to new or replaced single family residences, multifamily residences and small commercial customers with gas volumes not exceeding 1,000 standard cubic feet per hour and at a pressure not less than 10 psig.

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Appalachian Natural Gas | Bluefield, Virginia | Bluefield West Virginia