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Form No. 2770 (Rev. 11) Gas Service Handbook Residential Conversion to Natural Gas March 2010

Gas Service Handbook

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Page 1: Gas Service Handbook

Form No. 2770 (Rev. 11)

GasService

Handbook

ResidentialConversion to

Natural Gas

March 2010

Page 2: Gas Service Handbook

� 2010 by Puget Sound Energy

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or byany means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or

information storage and retrieval system, without permission from Puget Sound Energy (PSE).

Puget Sound EnergyStandards Department

P.O. Box 97034 EST-07WBellevue, WA 98009-9734

1‐888‐225‐5773

Page 3: Gas Service Handbook

Puget Sound Energy's pledge to you is simple:

� We will connect new permanent service lines andmeters when mutually agreed.

� We will reestablish existing natural gas and electricservice following move‐out/move‐in or disconnectionfor non‐payment when mutually agreed.

� We will keep natural gas equipment serviceappointments when mutually agreed.

� If we fail to keep these commitments, we will credityour account $50.

Note: This guarantee applies in the absence of major storms,earthquakes, supply interruptions, or other adverse events beyond ourcontrol. In these cases, we will reschedule service appointments asquickly as possible.

Page 4: Gas Service Handbook
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TABLE OF CONTENTS i

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

Table Of Contents

Preface

Natural gas—the smart choice iii. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . What this handbook contains iii. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PSE's service territory maps iii. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Glossary of terms used in this handbook iii. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Codes and jurisdictions iv. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . How to contact Puget Sound Energy iv. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PSE's Service Providers iv. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Overview: Bringing Natural Gas to Your Home v. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 1� Steps to a Smooth Installation

Converting to natural gas 1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Getting started with the installation 1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Is there a gas main located in front of your home? 1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . What natural gas appliances will be installed in your home? 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . Customer fuel line 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Customer Responsibilities, underground fuel line piping 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

What are the costs and savings of converting to natural gas? 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gas main extension costs 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Purchase and installation costs of new appliances and equipment 4. . . . . . . . .

Unused facility charges 4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 2� Bringing Natural Gas to Your Home

Service from an existing main 5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Service with a main extension 5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Scheduling your installation 5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 3 �Installing Your Natural Gas Service

Selecting a gas meter location 7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Recommended location 7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Acceptable meter locations 7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Guard post requirements 7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Minimum meter clearance requirements 9. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Improper electrical grounding 9. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Meter installation and turn‐on 9. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Trenching in the right‐of‐way 11. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Customer‐provided trench and conduit 11. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Flag and landlocked lots 12. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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TABLE OF CONTENTSii

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

Chapter 4: Programs and Services Offered by Puget Sound Energy

Energy Efficiency Programs 13. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Contractor Referral Service� 13. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gas heating system inspection for your furnace 13. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Appendix A PSE's Natural Gas Service Territory Map

16. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Appendix B Natural Gas Safety

What is natural gas? 17. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Things to know about natural gas safety 17. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Call before you dig! 17. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . What to do if you suspect a natural gas leak 17. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

When and how to shut off gas service 18. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . When to shut off your gas service 18. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . How to shut off your gas service in an emergency situation 18. . . . . . . . . . . . . In a nonemergency situation 19. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

What is carbon monoxide? 19. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Safety precautions 19. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Know the early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning 19. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Glossary 21. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

List of Figures

Figure 1 Gas system responsibilities 1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Figure 2 Residential meter guard post requirements 8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Figure 3 Typical 250 or 425 in service residential gas meter set assembly 9. . . . . . Figure 4 Typical new residential meter set assembly installation ready for

equipment turn‐on 10. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Figure 5 Orange WARNING Tag 11. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Figure 6 Typical flag and landlocked lots 12. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Back Pocket

Gas Meter Location Sticker Form 1461. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Natural Gas Customer Rights and Responsibilities Form 1602. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Contractor Referral Service� Request Card Form 2811. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Installation Requirements for Gas Meter Set Assemblies Form 3885. . . . . . . . . . . . .

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PREFACE iii

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

Preface

Natural gas—the smart choice

Every year, thousands of consumers call us about switching to natural gas because usingnatural gas is safe, clean, affordable, and an efficient energy choice. Consider thefollowing benefits:� Reliable. Even during major power outages, gas ranges, water heaters, and some

fireplaces still work.� Safe. Natural gas is nontoxic, odorless, and colorless in its natural state. Mercaptan, a

harmless odorant, is added to create a clearly detectable scent. (For more information,see Appendix B, Natural Gas Safety.)

� Clean burning, energy efficient, and abundant. Natural gas is an ideal choice ifyou care about the environment.

� Versatile. Natural gas can be used for space and water heating, air conditioning,cooking, fireplaces, clothes drying, barbecues, pools, spas, patio and deck heaters,outdoor decorative lighting, and emergency generators.

To learn more about the benefits of natural gas, visit our web site at PSE.com

What this handbook contains

This handbook provides you with information about natural gas service from PSE,including:� How to determine natural gas availability and costs.� Where to locate your natural gas meter.� How to find dealers and contractors to assist you with the purchase and installation of

new natural gas equipment and appliances.� What is included in a service.� Natural gas safety.� PSE's Service Quality Guarantee.

PSE's service territory maps

For your reference, the territory map in Appendix A provides the general boundaries forPSE's natural gas service. A Customer Construction Services representative can help youto determine the closest available gas facilities and can provide you with costinformation for establishing new service.

Glossary of terms used in this handbook

For your convenience, glossary words appear in bold italics throughout the text the firsttime they appear (e.g., meter). The glossary is found at the end of this handbook.

Page 8: Gas Service Handbook

iv PREFACE

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

Codes and jurisdictions

Please remember that when it comes to installing new natural gas equipment andappliances, it is your responsibility to secure all necessary permits and ensure yourproject complies with all applicable state, county, and local laws and/or ordinancesrelating to the equipment. Your heating contractor usually obtains permits and facilitatesapprovals for you, but it is good to confirm this with your contractor.

How to contact Puget Sound Energy

You can obtain further information by contacting us through the following:� PSE Energy Advisors at 1‐800‐562‐1482—Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.� PSE Customer Construction Servicess at 1‐888‐321‐7779—Monday–Friday,

7 a.m.–5 p.m.

If you have any general billing questions regarding your account, please call CustomerService at 1‐888‐225‐5773—24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

PSE's Service Providers

PSE contracts with two partner companies to provide construction and engineeringservices: Potelco, Inc. and Pilchuck Contractors, Inc. The project manager and theemployees who install your service may work for these service providers on PSE'sbehalf.

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PREFACE v

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

Overview:Bringing Natural Gas to Your Home

This checklist notes the steps to convert to a single‐family residence to natural gasservice. This information applies only if Puget Sound Energy has an existing naturalgas main in the street in front of your home. If a natural gas main is not readilyavailable, we will need to engineer your project. If you have any questions, please call:

CUSTOMER CONSTRUCTION SERVICES1‐888‐321‐7779

Natural Gas Installation Steps:

� Call Customer Construction Services (CCS) to determine if a natural gas main is located in thestreet in front of your home.

� Obtain proposals from heating contractors and decide what kind of natural gas appliances andequipment you will purchase and at what cost. Remember, it is your responsibility to providethe required fuel line from the natural gas meter to your new equipment.� PSE offers different delivery pressure options that depend upon equipment load and

equipment pressure requirements, which may result in special meter set and customerinstallation requirements (your contractor can help you with this).

� Determine the total gas load your appliances and equipment will require (your contractorcan help you with this).

� PSE advises you to NOT remove your existing heating equipment or appliances prior to yourgas service and meter installation.

� A PSE representative will contact you to confirm project details, such as service length,customer provided conduit, etc.

� Complete and return the Gas Service Application (provided by a PSE representative oravailable at PSE.com).

� Provide PSE with an approved gas meter location (Chapter 3).� Provide a clear path for your service line installation and determine the service line length.� On the day your new natural gas equipment is installed in your house, please call PSE after

your fuel line has been inspected and approved by your city or county building department, sothat PSE may unlock the gas service valve, turn on the meter, and start‐up your appliances.� Only authorized PSE personnel can remove the gas service lock and operate the valve.

Puget Sound Energy's Responsibilities:

� Determine and inform you of gas availability.� Perform an economic feasibility study and determine costs, if applicable.� Notify you of:

� Right‐of‐way or easement requirements.� Additional permit requirements related to natural gas service/main line construction

(fisheries, etc.), if necessary.� Install the natural gas main, service, and meter set assembly.� Turn on natural gas meter.

Scheduling:

� Scheduling will be based on a mutually agreed upon time frame that is consistent with yourneeds, permit requirements, and design criteria.

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vi PREFACE

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

Page 11: Gas Service Handbook

STEPS TO A SMOOTH INSTALLATION 1

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

Chapter 1

Steps to a Smooth Installation

Converting to natural gas

Converting to natural gas is a joint project between you and Puget Sound Energy. Youare responsible for your gas fuel line installation and your gas appliance hookup, whichincludes selecting heating and appliance dealers and contractors. PSE is responsible forthe installation of the gas service line and meter. Figure 1 illustrates an installed gassystem.

Customer'sAppliance

ÏÏÏÏ

Figure 1 Gas system responsibilities

Getting started with the installation

Before the conversion process can begin, you need to know the following:

Is a gas main located in front of your home?

To determine if a natural gas main is located in front of your property, call CustomerConstruction Services (CCS) at 1‐888‐321‐7779. If a natural gas main is available, seeChapter 2: Service from an existing main.

If there is no gas main located in front of your home, PSE will review and estimate thefeasibility of extending gas facilities to you. If PSE determines that extending a gas mainto you is feasible, main extension charges may apply. The process of bringing a new gasmain to your area is outlined in Chapter 2: Service with a main extension.

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STEPS TO A SMOOTH INSTALLATION2

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

What natural gas appliances will be installed in your home?

Next, you will need to decide what natural gas appliances will be installed in your homeso you can inform PSE of your estimated natural gas load/usage and pressurerequirements. Your appliance or equipment dealer will evaluate your total natural gasload by estimating all gas appliance or equipment use (immediate and future) in Britishthermal units (Btu).

Remember, besides space and water heating, natural gas can be used for clothes drying,cooking, pool and spa heating, barbecues, fireplaces, patio heaters, and emergencygenerators. Some pieces of equipment, such as on-demand (tankless) water heaters andnatural gas fueled standby generators, require higher natural gas service delivery pressureor a larger gas meter. If you are installing this sort of equipment now, or if you areplanning to in the future, please let us know in advance so that your meter and servicepiping can be designed and engineered properly.

Customer fuel line

The fuel line is the gas piping (owned and maintained by the customer) from themeter to the customer’s appliances. For your information, three types of fuel line iscommonly available:

1. Rigid steel piping -- Typically, threaded rigid steel pipe is used fornatural gas piping.

2. Flexible Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing -- Corrugated stainlesssteel tubing (CSST) is a cost-effective, efficient, and safe way to runnatural gas piping. Due to its flexibility, CSST can be installed whererigid pipe may not be feasible.

3. Flexible copper tubing -- Flexible copper tube is another option fornatural gas fuel line.

At PSE’s standard delivery pressure of 6 inches w.c., flexible tubing may need to be alarger diameter than rigid steel pipe. Ask your appliance installer about the flexibletubing and the savings possible compared to rigid steel piping.

NOTE: Tubing has different flow properties than steel piping; therefore, it may require ahigher gas delivery pressure. Higher delivery pressure will require PSE to installdifferent equipment. Please check with your appliance installer to confirm your pressurerequirement.

NOTE: The International Fuel Gas code (as adopted by the State of Washington)regulates the design and installation of fuel lines and appliances. It will be yourresponsibility to ensure that a mechanical permit or a gas piping permit is obtained fromyour city or county building department, and that the building department performs aninspection of the completed installation.

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STEPS TO A SMOOTH INSTALLATION 3

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

Customer Responsibilities, underground fuel line piping

Fuel gas piping between your gas meter and your natural gas appliances or equipmentbelongs to you. If any of this piping runs underground, it needs to be maintained.Underground fuel line might be installed to serve a hot tub, pool, shop, other building, ora natural gas fueled standby generator.

NOTE: It is your responsibility to maintain underground fuel line piping.

If your buried piping is not maintained, it may leak or corrode. Be sure to periodicallyinspect buried pipes for leaks, and if the piping is metallic, inspect for corrosion. Makesure repairs are done immediately to correct any unsafe condition. A corrosion controlcompany or a plumbing or heating contractor can help inspect it and repair it.

If you plan to excavate near your buried piping, it should be located in advance and theexcavation should be done by hand. ONE‐CALL Center is a free service provided toprevent damage to underground utilities by excavation. Notification is required2 business days in advance for utilities to be located. The ONE‐CALL Center can bereached by calling 1‐800‐424‐5555, via the web (click ITIC at callbeforeyoudig.org), andwith a wireless or landline service phone number (users can call 811).

If you smell the rotten egg smell of odorized natural gas, call PSE 24 hours a day at1‐888‐225‐5773 and we will check it for you. For emergencies, call 911.

CAUTION: When excavating near buried gas piping, locate the piping first, thenexcavate by hand.

What are the costs and savings of converting to natural gas?

The answer to this question will be different for every conversion customer. The totalcost is affected by the following factors:� Whether you require a simple service hookup or main extension.� The one‐time investment to buy and hook up your natural gas appliances.� How soon your natural gas use begins.� The payback period (the time it takes for energy savings to pay off your new

equipment and gas installation costs, if any).

Gas main extension costs

If a gas main is not available in front of your home, a gas main extension may benecessary. The cost, if any, for a main extension will be calculated by a PSE projectmanager. The following information is used to calculate the estimated cost:� Length of the proposed main extension.� Square footage (heated) of your home.� Intended uses of natural gas, such as furnace or hot water heater.� Number of initial customers requesting gas service along the proposed gas main

route.

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STEPS TO A SMOOTH INSTALLATION4

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

Purchase and installation costs of new appliances and equipment

To determine the total cost of converting your home to natural gas, we suggest youobtain an estimate from a heating equipment dealer and contractor for the cost topurchase and install your natural gas appliances/equipment. PSE's Contractor ReferralService� will help you find registered dealers and contractors (see Chapter 4,Contractor Referral Service).

Before you sign a contract for the purchase and installation of your new gas equipment,make sure you know the cost, if applicable, to have a gas service line extension and/orgas main extension provided to your home. PSE will supply the service line and set thegas meter at your home. Your heating dealer will provide and install the gas equipment inyour home and provide the gas fuel line from your gas meter to the equipment.

Unused facility charges

If Puget Sound Energy installs a new gas facility and it is not used within 12 months,you may be held financially responsible for the installation in accordance with Rule 7 ofthe PSE Gas Tariff.

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BRINGING NATURAL GAS TO YOUR HOME 5

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

Chapter 2

Bringing Natural Gas to Your Home

In Chapter 1, you determined whether your gas service site is within Puget SoundEnergy's service territory and if an existing natural gas main is in front of your home.You also learned how to estimate your natural gas load. Now you are ready to:� Complete and submit a Gas Service Application-100G to your Customer

Construction Services (CCS) representative.� Select a gas meter location that complies with the requirements in Chapter 3,

Selecting a gas meter location. Clearly mark the location with Form 1461, the goldGas Meter Location sticker (located in the back pocket of this handbook).

� Schedule your natural gas service installation.

Service from an existing main

In many cases, if a natural gas main already exists in the street in front of your home,you may qualify for a service line at no charge.

Running a service from an existing main is the most common gas installation PSE does.

Service with a main extension

If a natural gas main does not exist in front of your home, a gas main extension will benecessary. A PSE representative will evaluate the feasibility of bringing natural gasservice to your home, describe the project scope and time, as well as provide anestimated cost to extend the natural gas main to your house. To initiate this process,please call 1‐888‐321‐7779.

Scheduling your installation

Scheduling your installation will be based upon a mutually agreed upon time frame thatis consistent with your needs, permit requirements, and design criteria.

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BRINGING NATURAL GAS TO YOUR HOME6

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

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INSTALLING YOUR NATURAL GAS SERVICE 7

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

Chapter 3

Installing Your Natural Gas Service

Before Puget Sound Energy can start the natural gas meter installation, we request thatyou determine and mark the gas meter location with Form 1461, the gold Gas MeterLocation sticker (provided for you in the back pocket of this handbook).

NOTE: This section refers to the illustrations found in Form 3885, InstallationRequirements for Gas Meter Set Assemblies, found in the back pocket of this handbook.

Selecting a gas meter location

Safe installation and operation of your gas service equipment is our primary concern. Anapproved natural gas meter location is one that is in accordance with regulatoryrequirements and meets PSE’s construction standards.

Recommended location

Puget Sound Energy generally requires that you locate the meter on the front 1/3 of thestructure. This location allows easy access to the meter set assembly riser shutoff valve(Figure 3) in an emergency, and allows PSE ready access for meter reading andservicing.

Acceptable meter locations

Please refer to Form 3885, Installation Requirements for Gas Meter Set Assemblies,found in the back pocket of this handbook.

NOTE: Talk to your local PSE representative for information about the requirements forprotecting your meter from floods, ice, and snow. For service installations in SnowCountry, see Form 3736, Gas Meter Set Assembly Protection from Snow and Ice in SnowCountry.

Guard post requirements

For residential meters that are adjacent to driveways or other traffic, guard posts shall beinstalled according to the following requirements:H All guard posts must be mounted preferably 12 inches, 8 inches minimum,

(see Dimension A in Figure 2), from the front of the meter set assembly, and aminimum of 6 inches from either side. See Figure 2.NOTE: All guard post spacing distances are measured from the center of the guardpost.

H If the meter set assembly will be adjacent to a residential driveway:-- Guard posts must be constructed with 2-1/2-inch-diameter steel pipe, 6 feet long,

filled with wet concrete and domed on top.-- Each guard post shall be embedded in a minimum 8-inch-diameter, 30-inch-deep

concrete base, with at least 24 inches of the guard post encased in the base and atleast 42 inches above final grade.

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INSTALLING YOUR NATURAL GAS SERVICE8

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

H If the meter set assembly will be adjacent to more extensive traffic, such as an alley,parking area, or commercial driveway:-- Guard posts must be constructed with 4-inch-diameter steel pipe, 6 feet long, filled

with wet concrete and domed on top.-- Each guard post shall be embedded in a minimum 15-inch-diameter, 30-inch-deep

concrete base, with at least 24 inches of the guard post encased in the base and atleast 42 inches above final grade.

H A typical meter set assembly installation requiring guard posts will use two guardposts.-- Spacing between guard posts must be the length of the meter set assembly plus

12 inches (see Dimension B in Figure 2).-- Only one guard post is required if the driveway does not extend past the meter set

assembly.H If the meter set assembly is subject to vehicular damage from multiple directions and

if the outer guard posts exceed 28 inches maximum spacing, additional guard postsshall be installed, evenly spaced, between them, and all posts shall be 12 inchesminimum from the front of the meter.

H Guard posts should be painted “caution” yellow, especially those located incommercial or industrial locations, street rights-of-way, and alleyways.NOTE: All guard post spacing distances are measured from the center of the guardpost.

Concretebase withguard post

24I

Driveway orparking area

BuildingWall

TOP VIEW GUARDPOST LOCATIONS

42IMin

abovegrade

B

30I

6I Min

2-1/2I Dia steel pipesfilled with concrete

6I Min

A

Figure 2 Residential meter guard post requirements

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INSTALLING YOUR NATURAL GAS SERVICE 9

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

Minimum meter clearance requirements

Minimum clearances are measured from the regulator relief vent or the gas meter setassembly (Figure 3). The regulator relief vent exhausts natural gas safely into theatmosphere if the regulator on your meter fails to work properly. The diagrams and themeasurements provided in Form 3885, Installation Requirements for Gas Meter SetAssemblies (provided in the back pocket of this handbook), show the required minimumdistances between building features and the relief vent or the meter set assembly.

Regulator

Regulator ReliefVent

250 MeterRiser

Meter OutletValve(Open)

Regulator

425 Meter

Riser

TypicalFuel LineHeight42I

TypicalFuel LineHeight26I

Riser ShutoffValve(Open)

Riser ShutoffValve(Open)

RegulatorRelief Vent

Figure 3 Typical 250 or 425 in service residential gas meter set assembly

Improper electrical grounding

Natural gas risers, up to and including the meter set, should not be used as a groundingelectrode. An electrical ground connection to a natural gas riser could result in ahazardous condition and can compromise PSE’s Corrosion Protection System.

Meter installation and turn-on

The service line, riser, and gas meter can be installed once the customer has determinedand marked the gas meter location with Form 1461, the gold Gas Meter Location sticker,or has stubbed out the fuel line. See previous section for guidance in selecting theappropriate meter location.

Figure 4 shows the typical components for a new (inches water column delivery) gasmeter set assembly installation. When PSE installs the gas meter assembly, the followingcomponents will be installed:H The riser shutoff valve will be locked in the closed (off) position. Removal of this

lock or operation of this valve by unauthorized persons may damage this equipmentand is prohibited.

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INSTALLING YOUR NATURAL GAS SERVICE10

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

� An orange WARNING tag will be attached above the locked riser shutoff valve (seeFigure 5).

� The meter outlet valve will be in the closed (off) position (depending on gas load, themeter configuration may change).

Before the gas meter can be turned on, the fuel line shall be inspected, approved, andconnected to the gas meter (permit signed and approved by the local administrativeauthority).

To arrange for the gas meter turn‐on, please call PSE at 1‐888‐225‐5773. Call by3:00 PM for same day gas meter turn‐on for up to two meters. For facilities with morethan two meters, call PSE to schedule the meter turn‐on. This applies on regular businessdays, subject to delays associated with major storms, earthquakes, supply interruptions,or other adverse events beyond PSE's control.

PSE will turn on the gas meter and verify operation of new gas appliances.

Regulator

Regulator Relief Vent

250 Meter

Riser

Meter OutletValve(Closed)

Universal Valve Lock

Warning Tag& Seal

(see Figure 5)

Riser ShutoffValve(Closed)

Regulator

Regulator ReliefVent

425 Meter

Riser

Universal Valve Lock

Warning Tag& Seal

(see Figure 5)

Riser ShutoffValve(Closed)

Meter Outlet Valve(Closed)

Meter Inlet Valve(Closed)

Bypass Valve with Lock(Closed)

Figure 4 Typical new residential meter set assembly installationready for equipment turn‐on.

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INSTALLING YOUR NATURAL GAS SERVICE 11

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

Figure 5 Orange WARNING tag

Trenching in the right‐of‐wayPSE takes care of all work in the right‐of‐way including:� Apply for any necessary easements prior to installation.� Apply for necessary permits for the portion of the work done in the public

right‐of‐way.� Make a request to locate existing underground utility locations through the

Underground Utilities Location Center. You are responsible for locating someunderground facilities on private property.

Customer‐provided trench and conduitIf you wish to provide your own trench and/or natural gas service conduit on your ownproperty there are specific requirements that you must follow. Contact CCS at1‐888‐321‐7779 for further information.

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INSTALLING YOUR NATURAL GAS SERVICE12

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

Flag and landlocked lotsIt is not always obvious, when looking at a lot, where the legal boundaries are or how aparcel of property is actually shaped (Figure 6). Often it becomes necessary to lookthrough survey and assessor maps. It is important to tell PSE if you are requesting gasservice to either a flag lot or landlocked lot. Knowing these details helps PSE do therequired records research in advance and avoid delays in installing service.

CARVER AVE.

RO

BE

RT

SO

N S

T.

Lot 1

Lot 2

Lot 3 Lot 4

Lot 5

Lot 6

Lot 10Lot 9Lot 8Lot 7

CARVER AVE.

RO

BE

RT

SO

N S

T.

FlagLot

LandlockedLot

What the Records ShowWhat the Property Looks Like

Figure 6 Typical flag and landlocked lots

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PROGRAMS AND SERVICES OFFERED BY PUGET SOUND ENERGY 13

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

Chapter 4

Programs and Services Offered by Puget Sound Energy

Energy Efficiency Programs

PSE offers an array of energy efficiency programs to help reduce your home's energyconsumption and save your family money.

These programs range from cash rebates and home improvement suggestions, to energyuse calculators that keep track of your monthly energy usage. The power to conserve andsave is in your hands. Ask the Energy Advisors about the rebates that are available whenyou install energy‐efficient equipment.

Call an Energy Advisor at 1‐800‐562‐1482—Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m., or visitour web site at PSE.com

Contractor Referral Service�

Puts you in touch with quality equipment and services

These days, consumers have many energy‐related choices for their homes or businesses.The questions are endless, from choosing heating and cooling systems to insulation,roofing, fireplaces, heat pumps, windows, or water heaters. Where should you turn forhelp? Now it's simple: PSE's Contractor Referral Service.

PSE created the CRS to assist you in the decision‐making process of choosingenergy‐efficient equipment and to help you in selecting prescreened independentcontractors.

Call to receive a copy of Form 3269, Contractor Referral Service Consumer andBusiness Guide, which includes tips on how to select energy‐related equipment andservices. In addition, the Contractor Referral Service provides you with qualifiedcontractor referrals to install and maintain the most appropriate energy‐efficientequipment for your needs.

The Contractor Referral Service has prescreened independent contractors who havesatisfied 15 eligibility criteria, including knowledge and experience, financial stability,certifications and bonding, and customer satisfaction.

For more information about the Contractor Referral Service, contact an Energy Advisorat 1‐800‐562‐1482—Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m., or visit our web site at PSE.com

Gas heating system inspection for your furnace

Puget Sound Energy recommends regular inspection and maintenance of your natural gasheating equipment. Many manufacturers recommend a thorough service of your naturalgas heating equipment every year.

With routine inspections, your natural gas heating equipment is more likely to operatesafely and efficiently year‐round. For more details, contact an Energy Advisor at1‐800‐562‐1482.

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PROGRAMS AND SERVICES OFFERED BY PUGET SOUND ENERGY14

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

Page 25: Gas Service Handbook

APPENDICES 15

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

Appendices

Appendix A

� PSE's Natural Gas Service Territory Map

Appendix B

� Natural Gas Safety

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APPENDIX A: PSE'S NATURAL GAS SERVICE TERRITORY MAP16

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

Appendix A

PSE's Natural Gas Service Territory

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APPENDIX B: NATURAL GAS SAFETY 17

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

Appendix B

Natural Gas Safety

What is natural gas?

Natural gas is 96 percent methane, a natural compound formed as plants, trees, and otherorganic matter break down. While natural gas is combustible, it ignites only within anarrow range—between 4 and 14 percent gas‐in‐air mixture. In smaller or greaterconcentrations it will not burn. For this reason, natural gas is a more stable fuel sourcethan propane or gasoline. The exhaust from a properly working natural gas appliance isessentially carbon dioxide and water vapor—the same substances released when weexhale.

Natural gas is colorless and has no smell in its natural state. A harmles odorant(mercaptan) is added to create a distinct scent, so that it is easy to detect even thesmallest natural gas leak. In addition, natural gas is 40 percent lighter than air. Unlikepropane, which will tend to pool close to the ground, if natural gas escapes, it will riseand dissipate safely into the atmosphere.

Things to know about natural gas safety

When using any energy source, it is wise to be aware of and follow certain precautions tokeep yourself and those around you safe. Here are some of the things you should know tosafely obtain gas service and use it safely once it has been established in your structure.

Call before you dig!

Be sure to call to have all underground utilities located any time you plan to dig on yourproperty. Washington state law requires that underground utilities be contacted beforeyou begin any project that requires a hole or trench that is 12 inches or deeper.

ONE‐CALL Center is a free service provided to prevent damage to underground utilitiesby excavation. Notification is required 2 business days in advance for utilities to belocated. The ONE‐CALL Center can be reached by calling 1‐800‐424‐5555, via the web(click ITIC at callbeforeyoudig.org), or with a wireless or landline service phone number(users can call 811).

NOTE: This is required even if you think you know there are no other utilities where youintend to dig.

What to do if you suspect a natural gas leak

The odorant added to the gas will enable you to detect even a small gas leak. However,using your nose is not the only way to detect a leak. Bubbles blowing in a puddle or ahissing sound also may indicate a natural gas leak. If you suspect a natural gas leak,follow these steps to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you:� Leave the building immediately and leave the door open on the way out.

Do not use a telephone inside the affected building or do anything that might cause aspark.Do not light a match.Do not turn on a light switch.Do not attempt to put out flames if a gas leak ignites.

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GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

� Use a neighbor's phone or find a pay phone and call PSE's Customer Service at1‐888‐225‐5773. (If you must use your cellular phone be sure you are well away fromthe building.)

� For emergencies, call 911.

When and how to shut off gas service

When an emergency strikes, it is not always necessary to shut off your natural gasservice. Knowing when and how to shut off natural gas service can save you from beingwithout gas service needlessly.

When to shut off your gas service

It is necessary to shut off your gas service at the service shutoff valve at the meter onlywhen you hear or smell natural gas leaking. If you can't hear it or smell it there is nodanger.

How to shut off your gas service in an emergency situation

If there is an emergency situation and you need to shut off gas service at your meter,follow these three steps:

Step Action

1 Locate the gas service shutoff valve (usually the first fitting) on the naturalgas supply pipe coming out of the ground near the meter.

2 Use a long‐handled wrench to turn the valve one‐quarter turn so that the leveris crosswise to the pipe.

3 Once the gas is off, leave it off. Call Puget Sound Energy to inspect thesystem, check, and relight appliances.

Shutoff Valve

Locating the Gas Service Shutoff Valve(Front View)

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APPENDIX B: NATURAL GAS SAFETY 19

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

Shutoff Valve inOpen Position

Turn clockwise 1/4turn to close valve

NOTE: Contact PSE to open a closed shutoff valve.

Closing the Gas Shutoff Valvefrom the Open Position

(Side View)

Shutoff Valve inClosed Position

Gas Shutoff Valve in Closed Position(Side View)

In a nonemergency situation

If you need gas service to be shut off for a temporary, nonemergency situation, shut offservice at the fuel‐line valve located near the particular appliance.

What is carbon monoxide?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, tasteless, and invisible gas which can build upwhen any fuel‐burning equipment—an automobile, fireplace, natural gas or oil furnace,wood stove, propane heater, charcoal grill, or kerosene heater—has insufficient air toburn the fuel completely. Carbon monoxide exposure can be dangerous.

Safety precautions

Here are suggestions to guard against carbon monoxide exposure in any structure:� Use only fuel‐burning equipment inside the structure that is designed to operate

indoors. Vented gas equipment must vent to the outside according to themanufacturer's specifications.

� Make sure fuel‐burning equipment is maintained and operated safely and properly.� Never run an automobile engine, lawn mower, portable generator, or any combustion

engine in an enclosed space.� Keep flues and chimneys free of debris and clear of soot buildup.� Consider the installation of a carbon monoxide detector, particularly near sleeping

areas in a structure.

Know the early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning

If you think someone is suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning, move the personoutside to fresh air immediately and seek medical help. Early symptoms include:� Dizziness� Flu‐like symptoms� Weakness� Nausea and vomiting� Partial loss of muscular control� Drowsiness

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APPENDIX B: NATURAL GAS SAFETY20

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

Page 31: Gas Service Handbook

GLOSSARY 21

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

Glossary

A9 valve - See Meter outlet valve.

Appliance shutoff valve - A valve readily accessible and operable by the customer,located on the fuel line at or very near the appliance.H Open position - Valve handle is parallel with the line.H Closed position - Valve is crosswise or at a right angle to the fuel line.

Approved - Acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction.

Backfill - Earth or other material used to refill a trench. Also, the act of refilling atrench.

British thermal unit (Btu) - Quantity of heat necessary to raise one pound of water onedegree Fahrenheit at sea level pressure. The heating quality of the gas.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) - A gas which is a product of combustion, resulting when carbonunites with sufficient oxygen to produce complete combustion. When natural gas burnscompletely, it produces carbon dioxide and water vapor, as well as heat.

Carbon monoxide (CO) - A poisonous combustible gas produced by the incompletecombustion of carbon or reduction of carbon dioxide.

Combustion - The process of burning, requiring three components: fuel, air, and ignitiontemperature.H Complete combustion - Results in carbon dioxide and water vapor; harmless.H Incomplete combustion - Can produce carbon monoxide and aldehydes; potentially

hazardous.

Conduit - A buried pipe in which the gas service line may be inserted. Conduit helpsprotect the gas line from damage and allows gas pipe to be replaced without excavating.Conduit is typically installed for road crossings and for service line installations.

Department of Transportation (DOT) - The federal regulatory agency that governs gaspipeline safety, transportation of hazardous materials, and administers regulations relatedto highway rights-of-way.

Easement - A document entitling its holder the right to use a specified parcel ofproperty. Easements give Puget Sound Energy the right to install underground natural gasfacilities on private property.

Emergency - A situation in which there is an immediate threat to life or property. In thecase of natural gas, an emergency is an immediate threat and/or the uncontrolled escapeof gas.

Excess flow valve - An excess flow valve (sometimes called an EFV) is a deviceinstalled in a natural gas piping system to limit the amount of natural gas that travelsthrough the pipe in the event the pipe is severed downstream of the EFV.

Flag lot - A parcel of property that does not connect directly to a public right-of-way(street) except for a narrow strip of land that touches the public street and is used toaccess the property.

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GLOSSARY22

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

Fuel line - Gas piping from the meter to the appliance that is owned and maintained bythe customer.

Ignition temperature of natural gas - Natural gas ignites at about 1,100 degreesFahrenheit.

Ignitor - Any device used to light gas. A spark ignitor uses an electric spark generatedacross an air gap for this purpose.

Joint utility trench - Two or more utilities occupying a common trench.

Landlocked lot - A parcel of property that does not connect directly to a publicright-of-way (street) and must have an easement to cross another parcel of land to accessthe property.

Load (Gas) - The connected load is calculated by totaling the Btu rating for all gasappliances connected to the meter.

Main (Gas) - The distribution line (or pipe) that serves as a common source of supplyfor more than one service line. Owned and maintained by PSE.

Mercaptan - An organic chemical odorant added to natural gas to give it a distinctivesmell to alert customers in the case of leaks. Natural gas is odorless in its natural state.Mercaptan smells something like rotten eggs.

Meter - A device for measuring and recording the volume of gas used.

Meter outlet valve - A positive shutoff valve installed on most residential and smallcommercial meter set assemblies. The valve is located on the outlet of the meter and isconnected to the fuel line.

Methane gas (CH4) - A hydrocarbon gas that is the main component of natural gas(about 96 percent). It is colorless, odorless, and flammable and the same substanceproduced in some swamps, sewers, and landfills.

MSA - Meter set assembly.

Natural gas - A naturally occurring mixture of flammable hydrocarbon andnonhydrocarbon gases found in porous geologic formations beneath the earth’s surface;often in association with petroleum. It’s supplied as a fuel for millions of applicationsworldwide. The chemical composition is approximately 96 percent methane, 2 percentethane, and 2 percent inert gases.

Propane gas (C3H8) - A colorless flammable gas found in petroleum and natural gas. Itis odorized to make it easy to detect (smells sort of like garlic), heavier than air (specificgravity of 1.5), and has a 2544 Btu per cubic foot. (Natural gas contains about 1060 Btuper cubic foot.)

Rate - Method of charging for energy usage (for therms used).

Regulator (also Pressure regulator) - A device to lower the gas pressure. Districtregulators lower the pressure in mains, meter regulators lower pressure at the meter, andappliance regulators lower pressure at the appliance.

Right-of-way - A collection of easements and/or permits allowing the holder to specificlimited use of a parcel(s) of property (such as running a gas main through privateproperties or a dedicated area for use by the public for travel and utilities). This termrefers to the land itself, not the right of passage over it. (See also: Easement).

Riser - The portion of the service that terminates aboveground at the structure to supportthe meter.

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GLOSSARY 23

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

Riser shutoff valve - A positive shutoff valve on all metering and/or service regulatingfacilities. The valve is located immediately upstream (on the service line side) of themeter set assembly.H Open position - Valve handle is parallel with the line.H Closed position - Valve is crosswise or at a right angle to the fuel line.

Service - The pipe which carries gas from the main to the customer’s meter.

Service shutoff valve - A convenient shutoff located outside of the customer’s building.If the meter is located outside of the building, the riser shutoff valve may also serve asthe service shutoff valve. In some commercial service applications this valve may beburied and located in the right-of-way at the customer’s property line.

Snow Country - Geographical locations in Cle Elum and west of Cle Elum in upperKittitas County.

Stub - A unit of property where gas pipe extends from the main in the right-of-way tothe property line; or, if the main is in a 10-foot utility easement for joint trenchconstruction or in any easement of defined dimensions, the stub is that portion of theservice from the main to the field side edge of the easement; or, if the main is in aneasement that covers the entire parcel or has no defined dimensions, the stub is the first 2feet of the service.

Therm - A therm of gas containing 100,000 Btu of energy and is roughly equivalent to100 cubic feet of gas.

Trench - An excavated ditch of specific depth and width into which underground utilitylines are installed.

Utility - Includes all wet and dry public or private utilities, including, but not limited to:electric, TV, cable, water/sewer, sprinkler system pipe, and building drains.

Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC) - The WUTC protectsconsumers by ensuring that utility and transportation services are fairly priced, available,reliable and safe.

PSE may petition the Commission to add, change, or delete rules and increase or changerates. Customers may request the Commission to resolve a dispute with or a complaintagainst the Company.

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GLOSSARY24

GAS SERVICE HANDBOOK / RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION TO NATURAL GAS

Page 35: Gas Service Handbook

Notes

Page 36: Gas Service Handbook

Notes