Gas Valves are routinely checked for 100,000 cycles and are used in equipment that have approximately 15 years life expectancy.
How do you reset a earthquake shut off valve?
To reset, all you need is a screwdriver. Insert the screwdriver into the reset slot and rotate clockwise. You should be able to see the color switch from red to green to indicate that the valve is now open.
How do earthquake valves work?
Seismic valves are triggered by the ground shaking caused by earthquakes. When shaking reaches the level of the valve’s designated shut-off point (generally around 5.2-5.4 on the Richter Scale), the valve will automatically stop the flow of gas into your house.
Are earthquake valves required in California?
About one in four fires after an earthquake is related to natural gas leaks. The California State Architect is required to approve automatic gas shutoff valves to be installed in the State of California, pursuant to Section 19202 of the State of California Health and Safety Code.
Are seismic shut off valve requirements in California?
On the year 2000, the California Building Standards Commission approved the Division of the State Architect’s emergency regulations, requiring all newly constructed buildings in California to install earthquake shut-off valves or also known as a seismic natural gas shut-off valve.
How much is an earthquake valve?
Prices generally range between $250 and $750, including parts and labor. If you’re in an earthquake-prone area, a seismic shut-off valve is an important safety measure to prevent fires and explosions from your gas line during a seismic event.
What does an earthquake shutoff valve look like?
Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: It's got windows and we can see inside that there's a steel ball under the red cap sitting on a seat that's holding the valve in the open position in an earthquake that ball would be dislodged.
Should you turn off your gas after an earthquake?
Turn off the gas service shutoff valve typically located near the gas meter, if it’s safe to do so. Avoid turning off your home’s gas without a clear sign that it is leaking. It may take a long time for PG&E to turn your gas services back on. Check for downed or damaged electric utility lines.
How do you reset a little firefighter earthquake valve?
To reset valve: Close wrench-operated meter inlet valve. After waiting five minutes, reset the valve by turning the “reset” shaft with a screwdriver 1/8 turn (45°) in the direction indicated. The slot on the reset shaft should spring back to its original, vertical, position when the screwdriver is removed.
Who can install a seismic shut off valve?
licensed plumbing contractor
If a customer installs an excess flow gas shut-off valve or earthquake-actuated gas shut-off valve, the valve must be certified by the State of California. A licensed plumbing contractor must install it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
What is a seismic gas shut off valve?
Seismic gas shutoff valves (also called earthquake valves) shut off the flow of gas from the meter to the house if earth movement equivalent to about 5.4 or more on the Richter scale is detected.
How does an automatic shut off valve work?
An automatic water shut-off valve detects water either by monitoring flows in the pipe or by detecting water on the floor. When flow is irregular or moisture is detected, the valve will shut off the water supply to your home. These can prevent a significant amount of the damage that water leaks cause.
