Anyone know how to remove the lock that is on my gas meter (see photo)... Bonus points if you can tell me what the yellow wire is for??
New install, I am converting from propane and have to convert my furnace, Cookson and generator. I guess they locked it so it doesn't get turned on accidentally. Try to call gas company and they are closed.
The yellow wire is a tracer wire for locating the line. The lock is probably on there because they haven't pressure/ leak tested the system..I wouldn't take it off...cause yourself major headaches...nothing like PO'ing the gas company on day one !
So should I install the piping then have the gas company come out and test it?? Thanks for the info Dave!
being this is for you, I decide to log in and answer. you have to have 1" pipe running to your first appliance and an appliance has to be hooked up for them to pressure test it. the wire is a tracer wire. gas company will not turn it on until pressure tested. I always run all black iron pipe, I do not like the yellow flex line.
As said, the yellow wire is ran with the underground supply line for locating purposes. Gas utilities require a signed pressure test form by whoever installed the piping from the meter t-bar to the appliances supply line shutoff valve at the appliance in the building. Do not pressure test to the appliance gas valve, this can damage the appliance gas valve. Connections from the supply line shutoff to the appliance should be checked with a leak detector such as a soap and water solution. A licensed plumbing or hvac contractor typically does the pressure test and signs off on it. The utlity may do the test for you and unlock the meter as long as the piping system installed meets their code requirements. Unless you have experience with installing gas piping, I would recommend having a licensed contractor install the piping. Gas piping is fairly simple,but you have to know what you are doing. You ever see a house turned into toothpicks from a gas leak?
Thanks for all the answers, I guess I will pay the man. I upgraded to and ran the 1" gas line to the generator when we installed it many years ago (actually on generator #2 now). Appreciate ironpony coming out of retirement to give me some solid answers. Some good advice from imwiley1 also, thanks. Eric VW thanks for the laugh as always!
My gas company won't install my meter until building inspector contacts them. I'm coming from a heat pump, sure will be nice having gas this winter.
I agree blujacket will be nice to not have to think about loading the pellet stove. Who is your gas company, we have Consumers Gas Cooperative
Vectren. Yes, Iv'e been a wood scrounger for years, but it's hard to come by and I don't have the time that's needed.
