Excess Flow Valve Notification

In accordance with recent federal regulations, you may request that Florida Public Utilities install an excess flow valve (EFV) on your existing gas service line. An EFV is a mechanical safety device installed inside a gas service line between the gas main and the gas meter. Although an EFV is not required for the normal, safe operation of your gas service line, an EFV could help mitigate the consequences of a service line break by restricting or stopping the gas flow.

Many customers already have an EFV installed on their existing service line as most residential and small commercial customers are eligible for this equipment. However, EFVs do not operate on all gas service lines and certain parameters may exist where installation of an EFV is not warranted. To determine if you are eligible to have an EFV installed, please contact Florida Public Utilities at 800.427.7712.

EFV Conditions and Information

Safety Benefits

Safety Benefits: There are many potential safety benefits that may be derived from installing an EFV. An EFV is designed to shut off the flow of natural gas automatically if a service line is ruptured. (For example, if a service line is inadvertently dug into by a homeowner or contractor during excavation.) Restricting the gas flow after a gas service line is damaged may decrease the potential for property damage and/or injury.

What an EFV cannot do

What an EFV cannot do: Installation of an EFV will not protect against leaks on customer appliances or house piping. EFVs also do not protect against leaks on the gas meter or slow leaks on the service line.

Cost and Installation

Cost and Installation: The cost of installing the EFV will be at the expense of the customer. The average installation cost is typically $1,000, but the actual cost will depend on the difficulty of installation. We will inform you of the actual cost before you make the final decision to install an EFV. The installation of an EFV will be scheduled at a mutually agreeable date pending the approval of any required permits and weather conditions. In addition, if you request the installation of an EFV and the load does not exceed 1,000 SCFH and the conditions of CFR 192.383 paragraph (c) are not present, then we must install an EFV at a mutually agreeable date.

Also, be aware that there may be costs incurred for maintaining or replacing an EFV at a later date. The average cost for maintenance is typically very minimal to none and the average cost of replacement is $1,000. However, the actual cost will depend on various factors, and we will inform you of these costs to the best of our ability.

Additional Information:

  • For your safety, always call 811 to have gas lines and other buried utilities marked before allowing anyone to dig in your yard.
  • Call Florida Public Utilities at 800.427.7712 if upgrading or adding gas equipment that may significantly increase your gas usage to avoid false tripping the EFV.