earthquake gas safety valve supplier

​Seismic shut-off valves are a simple, but effective way to ensure you never experience a gas fire after an earthquake. They are designed for earthquakes, accidents and any event of impact. We have installed thousands of automatic gas shut off valves to the manufacture’s specification to ensure safe, trouble free use.

The seismic valves work on a simple, consistent and accurate principle. A sensor moves when the valve is subjected to a 5.4 magnitude or larger earthquake, releasing the valve float which blocks the line and prevents gas going in to the building. The valve is then manually reset once a safety inspection has been done and you’re sure there are no leaks in the building.

Each valve is tested and certified before leaving the factory to meet approval from the State Board of Architect and LA Counties stringent requirements. They are tested to ASCE 25-97, State of California 12-23-1 & ANSI Z21.70-1981 Standards for Seismic Gas Valves.

Some cities and counties in California have regulations that require the installation of automatic gas shut-off devices, which may include excess flow gas shut-off valves and/or seismic gas shut-off valves. Regulations vary, but generally apply to new building construction, or significant alterations or additions to existing buildings.

If a customer installs an automatic gas shut-off valve, it should be one that is certified by the State of California and it should be installed by a licensed plumbing contractor in accordance to the manufacturers instructions.PG&Edoes not install or service seismic actuated or excess flow gas shut-off valves, or recommend specific contractors for customer applications.

​Non-emergency shut-offs will occur if the automatic gas shut-off is not installed according to manufacturer’s specifications. For example, the impact of heavy vehicles can trigger a non-emergency shut-off. They operate on movement and shut off the supply of gas to a building, when triggered by a 5.4 magnitude or larger Earthquake.

While it"s possible to manually shut off your natural gas, the following specialized valves are available that can automatically shut off your service in case of an emergency:

Earthquake natural gas shut-off valve (also known as a seismic natural gas shut-off valve) automatically shuts off your natural gas service when an earthquake of a sufficient magnitude occurs at your home.

An excess-flow valve (EFV) automatically closes and restricts the flow of natural gas in the event an underground pipe is damaged or if there is a significant increase in the flow of natural gas to the meter.

If you want to have an earthquake natural gas shut-off installed, or are required to have one by your insurance company or the local Department of Building and Safety, the valve must be installed on your house line.

If installation requires natural gas service closure, you"ll need to contact us to shut off the service and restore service when installation is completed. Natural gas service shut off and restoration of service orders can be scheduled by contacting us at 1-800-427-2200.

Under the regulations of the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), General Order 112-E, only SoCalGas® or its certified contractors are authorized to operate the natural gas service shut-off valve.

When you hire a qualified professional to install your earthquake valve, you"ll need to make sure that the valve is installed on your house line, not on SoCalGas" facilities. SoCalGas" facilities include all of the pipe fittings installed and maintained by SoCalGas, up to and including the last elbow or tee connecting to your house line. See the diagram below for to see where your house line starts.

All unauthorized valve installations found on SoCalGas" facilities will be removed. In addition, earthquake valves are not permitted in utility curb meter vaults.

If an earthquake or other significant event causes your earthquake shut-off or excess-flow valve to close, you can follow the manufacturer"s instructions for resetting the valve so that natural gas flows again. However, we recommend that you contact a qualified professional or SoCalGas to reset the valve, and to perform a safety check of your natural gas appliances before they are placed back in operation to verify that no natural gas leaks exist, and to re-light your pilot lights.

Remember that following a major emergency it may take many days or even weeks before someone can come to your location. (SoCalGas charges a fee to reset valves and re-light pilot lights when your earthquake shut-off valve has closed due to a non-earthquake occurrence.)

Price: The cost of the valve is going to vary based on the type and size of the valve, as well as the installation requirements and the company installing it.

Choosing a valve: In order to choose the right valve size and manufacturer, contact your local Department of Building and Safety to find out their earthquake valve requirements.

Where to buy a valve: You can purchase an earthquake valve at supply retailers, licensed plumbing contractors, or directly from the valve manufacturer.

Using a contractor: You can hire a qualified professional to install the earthquake or excess-flow valve on your house line. SoCalGas will not install a valve for you.

Effective February 10, 2002, California Public Utility Commission (CPUC) Decision 01-11-068 prohibits installation of an earthquake valve on SoCalGas" facilities. In addition, SoCalGas no longer installs earthquake shut-off valves for its customers, and does not allow any customer owned equipment, including excess-flow valves, be installed on SoCalGas" facilities.

If you have an earthquake valve that was installed by SoCalGas or one of its authorized contractors on or before the February 10, 2002 cutoff date, that is located on SoCalGas" facilities, with proper documentation your installation may be allowed to remain in place. Authorized contractors are those who participated in SoCalGas" earthquake program and were trained by SoCalGas to work on their facilities.

Additional information regarding earthquake valves and natural gas service restoration after a valve activates can be found in Tariff Book, Rule 10, Section G, "Earthquake Valve Service."

An Excess Flow Valve, or EFV, is a safety device installed on natural gas distribution pipelines to automatically close and restrict the flow of natural gas in the event an underground pipe is damaged or if there is a significant increase in the flow of natural gas to the meter. These conditions are typically caused by digging or construction but can also be caused by damage to your natural gas meter by a vehicle impact.

EFV can reduce the risk of explosions, fires, and personal injury because they close or restrict any unplanned or excessive natural gas flow. Installation of an EFV will not protect a customer from household appliance malfunctions, small punctures in underground pipelines, and pipeline damage from earthquakes or flooding. It is

important to understand that an EFV does not shut off the flow of natural gas completely. Some leakage may still occur resulting in a hazardous condition.

An EFV is installed on the service pipeline that runs underground between the natural gas main (usually located in or near the street, alley or easement) and the SoCalGas® meter on the customer’s property).

The best way to prevent damage to a natural gas pipeline due to digging is to call 811, the Underground Service Alert program, at least two working days before digging. Underground Service Alert will coordinate with SoCalGas to mark the locations of buried utility-owned lines - absolutely FREE.

If you are interested in having an EFV installed on the service pipeline serving you[1], please call SoCalGas at 1-800-427-2200. SoCalGas will first check to see if your service already has an EFV installed and, if not, an estimate to install the EFV will be provided. The cost to install an EFV can vary widely depending on site specific conditions and can range from $2,500 to $5,000 or more.

If you decide to have an EFV installed, we will coordinate with you to schedule the installation (note that it is possible that natural gas service will be interrupted to install the EFV). The construction crew will dig around the natural gas line in order to install the EFV and when the job is complete natural gas service will be restored (if it was shut off). If paving or concrete needs repair that work will be scheduled at a later date.

Please take a moment to understand the simplicity of our valves’ operation. It has been our experience, that the simpler the operation, the more accurate the function is when needed. Each valve is tested and certified before leaving our factory ensuring it meets Los Angeles Counties’ strict approvals.

Pacific Seismic Products proudly manufactures PSP Valves, which are the industry-leading standard in seismic-actuated valves for residential, commercial and industrial applications.

Pacific Seismic Products is the world’s leading manufacturer of earthquake/seismically actuated gas shutoff valves. The California Valve, formerly known as the Koso Valve, is proudly Made In America in Lancaster, CA.

Protect your home and family by installing a Northridge valve by Seismic Safety Products. Our valve automatically shuts off your gas during an earthquake giving you peace of mind.

The Northridge 2000 valve is a simple patented design with only one moving internal part. A stainless steel ball rests on a pedestal inside the valve when it is in the ON position allowing gas to flow. During a seismic disturbance of approximately 5.2 or greater on the Richter scale, the stainless steel ball falls from the pedestal and plugs the outlet passage stopping the flow of gas. The gas can only be turned back ON by manually resetting the valve. The faceplate has a magnet concealed behind it that lifts the stainless steel ball back onto the pedestal when it is slowly rotated one full turn counterclockwise.

The Northridge earthquake on January 17, 1993 was 6.7 on the Richter scale. 72 individuals lost their lives. 11,846 inured. Over $25 billion dollars in damage. 114,039 buildings damaged. Over 12,500 after shocks, ten of which were over 5.0 on the Richter scale. 185 mobile homes burned from gas fires. 700,000 claims filed with F.E.M.A. for gas appliance damage. Up to 50% of post earthquake fires are caused by gas leaks.

The Northridge 2000 valve is a simple patented design with only one moving internal part. A stainless steel ball rests on a pedestal inside the valve when it is in the ON position allowing gas to flow. During a seismic disturbance of approximately 5.2 or greater on the Richter scale, the stainless steel ball falls from the pedestal and plugs the outlet passage stopping the flow of gas. The gas can only be turned back ON by manually resetting the valve. The faceplate has a magnet concealed behind it that lifts the stainless steel ball back onto the pedestal when it is slowly rotated one full turn counterclockwise.

The Northridge earthquake on January 17, 1993 was 6.7 on the Richter scale. 72 individuals lost their lives. 11,846 inured. Over $25 billion dollars in damage. 114,039 buildings damaged. Over 12,500 after shocks, ten of which were over 5.0 on the Richter scale. 185 mobile homes burned from gas fires. 700,000 claims filed with F.E.M.A. for gas appliance damage. Up to 50% of post earthquake fires are caused by gas leaks.

Fires associated with broken gas and electrical lines are a frequent result of moderate to major earthquakes. Water supply line damage is also likely in these situations and fire departments are obligated to first serve public facilities in the event of disaster. It is estimated that over 90% of damage sustained during the 1906 San Francisco earthquake was due to inextinguishable gas line fires.

Team up with Safety Valve Installation Inc. and invest in the cost-effective solution to earthquake protection - a seismically activated gas shut-off valve. Our installed valves are rated for 30 years of uninterrupted use - an average cost of less than $2 per month over rated valve life.

SVI is an industry leading Safety valve installer.Safety Valve Installation Inc puts safety first. We use the proper equipment and tools to make sure the job gets done right.

We use quality fittings and parts, check existing gas meter for damage, protect fittings against rust, reset pilot lights and clear away all work related debris.

What They Think About Us“I highly recommend an auto gas safety shutoff valve installed by Safety Valve Installation Inc. to help protect your home from the risk of fire resulting from an earthquake.”

“A couple years ago we had Safety Valve Installation Inc install an automatic natural gas shutoff device in my home.  We have always regarded this as one of the best home improvement investments we could have made.  The knowledge that in the event of an earthquake our house will be protected from the possibility of a gas leak and subsequent fire has given us immense peace of mind.  Living in an earthquake prone region, this extra measure of safety can make all the difference in the world.  We would not hesitate for one minute to recommend the installation of this safety valve by Safety Valve Installation Inc to all homeowners.”

Mark and Sue S., Paso Robles, CA“We hired Safety Valve Installation Inc to install a seismic gas shut off valve.  The installation was quick and easy.  We have taken every precaution we can to protect our home from fire caused by leaking gas lines in the event of an earthquake.”

“California living does come with a few drawbacks, one of which is the dreaded earthquake.  So, when Safety Valve Installation Inc told us about the automatic gas shut-off valve, it seemed like a great idea to have it installed on our home.  The installation was prompt, and the technicians were happy to explain how it worked and how to re-set it.  The very reasonable cost more than compensates not only for the safety it provides us, but also for the protection of our home in the event of a major and or not so major earthquake.  The sense of security it gives us is immeasurable and we can’t thank them enough.”

Bianca S., Templeton, CASafety Valve Installation Inc installed one of these clever devices on my home several years ago.  Since then I have recommended it to all my clients.  As a Real Estate Broker I want to help my clients protect their biggest investment.  Even if I am away from home it gives me peace of mind knowing that if an earthquake were to occur, my home will be protected.”

As good as it gets service, installation and professionalism. The real test is when we have an earthquake! We were pleased with installer finding an existing gas leak in our meter which he repaired along with the installation. He also did touch-up paint on meter, leaving it looking clean and new. Having the safety valve in place makes us feel like we"ve got much less to worry about in case of an emergency.

Home: TestimonialsTHE SUGGESTION IN ILLUSTRATIONS INCLUDED ON OUR WEBSITE ARE INTENDED TO IMPROVE EARTHQUAKE AWARENESS AND PREPAREDNESS; HOWEVER, THEY DO NOT GUARANTEE THE SAFETY OF AN INDIVIDUAL OR A STRUCTURE. PLEASE FOLLOW EARTHQUAKE GUIDELINES AVAILABLE FROM THE FOLLOWING WEBSITES:

Our seismic valves are intended to close in the event of an earthquake thus preventing gas flowing into a structure where damage may have occurred. The valve minimizes the potential of a fire or explosion due to the release of natural gas into a commercial or industrial building. These valves are designed to be mounted around meter sets and remain closed until manually reset. A viewing port is built into the valve so that the open or closed indicator can be seen.

An Earthquake Shut-off Valve is a Gas Safety Device that is installed on your gas meter and automatically shuts-off the gas supply entering the structure in a 5.2 or greater earthquake.

Earthquake valves are important because they help mitigate damage caused by earthquakes. Earthquakes may break gas lines and cause gas leaks. An earthquake valve will stop the gas supply entering the structure. This will help prevent explosive fire caused by gas leaks. Earthquake valves protect your home, property and loved ones from harm in the event of an earthquake of magnitude 5.2 or higher.

Depending on the municipality, earthquake valves are required in different situations. Cities, with a high risk of earthquakes, are adopting new codes requiring earthquake valves to be installed in order to help protect their communities. Los Angeles, Santa Monica and Culver City are just a few of the cities which require earthquake valves. These cities require professional earthquake valves to be installed whenever you are building a new home, selling a home, or renovating your property in excess of $10,000.

Safe Gas Services provides complete installation and retrofitting services for residential, commercial and industrial structures throughout the greater Los Angeles area to ensure that your property meets city and state regulations and to keep you safe.

In the event of seismic activity or an earthquake of 5.4 or higher, your seismic earthquake shut off valve automatically closes the gas line from your meter to your home. This valve is generally installed right after your city’s gas meter before it enters your home. Because even a very small earthquake can cause the foundation of your home to shift and damage pipes in your home, we do recommend adding Excess Flow Valves along with your automatic seismic earthquake shut off valve. Anytime there is a significant earthquake or break in your homes plumbing systems, it is important that flammable substances like natural gas be immediately restricted to protect your family and home.

We at Western Natural Gas Products, take pride in our ability to serve our customers with quality products, dedicated technical experts and sales support team that assists in all your plumbing and heating needs.

We at Western Natural Gas Products, take pride in our ability to serve our customers with quality products, dedicated technical experts and sales support team that assists in all your plumbing and heating needs.

Automatically shut-off gas when triggered by a significant Seismic Event, greatly reducing fire risk. Lightweight Compact design for easy installation. Details : Best flow on market. Compiles with all codes. Fully 30 years warranty on all parts. These valves activate at 5.4 and g more...

An earthquake valve (or seismic valve) is an automatic method to shut off the low pressure regulated gas supply to a structure during a major earthquake and/or if a pipe is broken. These are applicable both to utility-supplied natural gas and to gas from liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). These small devices are installed on the property gas meter (usually between the utility company"s metered installation and the structure piping) and are designed to instantly stop the natural gas supply in order to protect the structure if a gas leak or line break occurs during an earthquake.

Fires or explosions due to gas line breaks can be more damaging than the actual earthquake itself. Gas supply companies recommend that the gas supply be cut off immediately if there is a smell of gas after an earthquake; if nobody is in place to do this, an unattended earthquake valve will instantly cut off the gas.

Two types of valve are commonly employed: one is sensitive to motion and the other to excessive gas flow. One of each type can be connected sequentially for maximum reliability.

A metal ball is retained away from an orifice by sitting upon a ring. Any shaking of the mechanism will cause the ball to roll off its ledge and fall down to block the orifice. It is reset using either an external magnetic device or an internal lift mechanism. If it is too sensitive, it may be triggered by normal vibrations such as passing vehicles. After a severe seismic event, gas piping may be damaged, requiring complete re-inspection for breaks or leaks. Seismic valves are available with pressure classes (7 psig and 60 psig max).

A valve is closed when the flow exceeds a certain limit that is appropriate to the application. This will only operate when a pipe is broken and there is significant leakage. It may not operate in case of a small, though still dangerous, leak.