Question 1

What size earthquake causes the valve to trigger?

Accepted Answer

Most brands of valves are set to trigger between 5.1 and 5.3 magnitude.  This is the magnitude that has been determined as the lowest threshold where gas pipe starts leaking.

Question 2

What size valves is Seismic Shutoff able to install?

Accepted Answer

When it comes to valve installation we have you covered from a ¾” valve on a residence, to an 8” valve on a large industrial facility and everything in between. Standard residential installation includes most homes with gas pipe size ranging from 3/4" to 1 1/4".

Question 3

Will this valve shut off for reasons other than an earthquake?

Accepted Answer

If that reason resembles an earthquake, then yes, it is certainly possible. We have seen scenarios where the gas valve triggered because a car jumped a curb and crashed into a home. That being said, a lawnmower beside the meter, or semi-truck out on the road won’t cause enough shaking to trigger the valve. Part of the reason for that is that our installers will install additional bracing where required to ensure the valve doesn’t false trigger.

Question 4

Is a permit required for the valve?

Accepted Answer

Some jurisdiction do require permits, most don't. If so, Seismic Shutoff will acquire the permit and inspection that are required as per the building and safety codes in your city. The cost of the permit will be added to our standard installation cost.

Question 5

Is this valve required?

Accepted Answer

Several jurisdictions across the western states have adopted ordinances requiring automatic gas shut-off devices be installed at the time of sale or during significant renovations. We believe more cities will follow suit as the risk of “The Big One” becomes more evident.

Question 6

Is there a warranty on the valve?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the industry standard is a 30-year warranty, and all makes of valves we offer come with a 30-year warranty for your long lasting protection.

Question 7

Can I reset the valve myself?

Accepted Answer

Being certain there are no leaks is critical. The most important element to the discussion of whether to install a valve is everyone and the structure is safe from the danger of a gas leak caused by an earthquake. While Seismic Shutoff believes it is best to have a gas specialist turn the gas back on, timing and the period it may take to schedule the gas company is not certain. The fact is you can turn the gas back on since the valve is on your side of the gas meter.   The gas shut off valve (SGSV) is designed with a simple reset. To resume gas flow after shocks have subsided, gas can be turned on outside at the valve. First, it is important to be aware of the odor of gas to confirm there is no leak. To aid in a gas leak discovery, we recommend a device that acts like a smoke detector, sensitive to gas in the air, available on Amazon here. If the detector activates or you smell gas open windows and doorways to dilute the gas in the air, then use the same reset on the valve to shut gas off manually. At that point, you can call PSE or Seismic Shutoff and one of our companies can detect the exact location of the leak and arrange for the repairs to take place.   The importance of having a valve in place to shut gas off during an earthquake event is tantamount in preparing to prevent a catastrophe caused by a gas leak.

Question 8

Does the valve require a tool to reset?

Accepted Answer

Some of the certified valves that are used can be manually turned to allow the flow of gas again. In fact, with the Northridge valve you can reset the valve by hand, or use the valve to shut the gas off by hand if you had any gas related emergency in your home. Others will require a screw driver to accomplish the same. After a seismic event we do however strongly urge you to test for any gas leakage, using a combustable gas leak detector, before resetting your valve.

Question 9

Are your gas pipe installers licensed and insured?

Accepted Answer

All work on valves are installed by licensed and insured gas pipe specialists. Seismic Shutoff currently holds Contractor Licenses in Washington #SEISMSL820NB, Oregon #223700 and California #1052876.

Question 10

What happens after an earthquake of 5.2m or greater?

Accepted Answer

Stay calm. When you have a seismic shut-off valve installed the valve will have turned the gas flow off. In order to get the gas back on you can flip the switch as was instructed when your installation was completed or call PSE (WA), PG&E, SoCalGas, Sempre (CA) or NW Natural (OR), to do so.   If you think you smell gas or think you have a gas leak, please call your utility supplier immediately and DO NOT  TURN THE GAS ON. If you would like to test for possible gas leaks, we recommend a combustible gas leak detector like the one here on Amazon.

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