Earthquake Preparation: Installing a Gas Emergency Shut Off Valve

An earthquake is the result of tectonic plates either colliding into each other or colliding against fault lines. The magnitude of an earthquake is calculated by its seismic activity on the Richter scale. An earthquake can cause mass devastation so it is important to prepare your home thoroughly. 

What is a Shut Off Valve?

A gas emergency shut off valve or seismic gas valve is a device that will shut down your gas supply when it detects a significant magnitude of seismic activity. There is also an excess valve which will shut down a gas supply due to overpressure in the valve that is caused by a gas leak. 

Ideally, you should have a gas valve installed by a professional because it can be dangerous to install one on your own. If you do have some experience with gas fittings then there is process to follow which should enable you to successfully install an emergency shut off valve. 

Purchasing the Correct Gas Valve

Before you embark on this project, ensure that you have the correct fitting. There are two main types which will simply differ in size. The most common size is half- inch fitting. These fittings can be purchased from a hardware store or home center. 

Turn the Gas Off

Make sure that the gas is turned off at the mains. To turn off the gas supply you will need to turn the wrench one quarter of a turn in either direction until the valve is closed. If you have neighbors who have houses are very close to your own, you should inform them of what you are doing and advise them to turn off their gas mains as well. It is very important that the gas is turned as this will prevent explosions in the event of a mistake. 

Installing the Gas Valve

Once the gas has been shut off, you can install the valve. The first thing you must do is to remove the union from the house side of the gas meter with the correct sized pipe wrench. Next, remove the pipe nipple. Take the shut off valve and screw one end into the pipe line which leads to the house and make sure that the on/off switch is turned perpendicular to the gas pipe. This means that the valve is switched off. Reconnect the union to the meter and once the gas valve has been secured tightly into position, apply some pipe compound just above the threads. The compound will act like a sealant around the pipes. 

Check for Leaks

Before you make any attempts to switch the gas back on you will need to check for any leaks. Rub a small amount of soapy water around the shut off valve. If bubbles appear, you have a leak. Check the fitting again and ensure that it is tight. If there is still a leak, call in a professional. 

Completion

When you are certain that there are no leaks, you can turn you gas back on and reignite the pilot light for your boiler.