What is an Excess Flow Valve?

Frequently Asked Questions About Excess Flow Valves:

What are the safety benefits of EFVs?

EFVs are designed to minimize or stop the flow of natural gas in the event of a service line break. For example, if an excavator accidentally digs up the natural gas service line and severs the line, the EFV is designed to automatically minimize or stop the flow of natural gas reducing the risk of property damage or a natural gas-related safety event like a leak or fire.

What are the costs of an EFV?

If you would like to have an EFV installed on your service line, you will bear the cost of installation. Costs vary, but average around $1,500.

Why do I have to pay for the EFV?

Until recently, federal law did not require excess flow valves to be installed on newly-constructed or replaced service lines. As such, if a customer wants an EFV installed on their service line, the installation is performed at the customer’s expense.

Do EFVs work on all natural gas systems?

EFVs will not work properly on all natural gas service lines, for reasons such as high gas flow, low pressure, or other factors. Therefore, not all customers qualify for an EFV. If you request an EFV, but your service line cannot accommodate it, we will let you know.

Do I need an EFV?

No, installation of an EFV is not mandatory. If you would like an EFV installed, you may contact us at 1-800-909-7642.

We work diligently to promote pipeline safety in a variety of ways, including through inspection programs, public education, pipeline markers, facility mapping, surveys, patrolling, pressure monitoring, odorization, and liaison with public officials. EFVs are an additional means of promoting safety, however, regardless of whether a customer elects to have an EFV installed, we will continue to work to protect the safety of our customers and the communities we serve in the same manner you have come to expect.