To turn on the gas supply to your property from the main pipeline network, you typically need to operate the safety shut-off valve located at your gas meter. This process requires careful attention to safety procedures outlined in the steps below.
Steps to Turn On Your Gas Supply
Turning the gas supply back on at the meter involves a few critical steps. It's important to follow these precisely and prioritize safety.
| Step | Action | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ensure Appliances Off | Turn off all gas appliances and pilot lights. |
| 2 | Operate Meter Valve | Return the gas safety shut-off valve to the 'on' position. |
| 3 | Re-light Pilots | Re-light any pilot lights. |
Detailed Procedure for Restoring Gas Supply
Restoring gas service should only be attempted if you are confident in your ability to follow the necessary steps safely, and you understand why the gas was shut off in the first place. The general procedure, as described in the reference information, is as follows:
- Ensure All Gas Appliances and Pilot Lights Are Turned Off: Before turning the main gas valve back on, it is essential to verify that all gas-powered appliances, including stoves, ovens, furnaces, water heaters, dryers, and any pilot lights, are completely shut off. This prevents gas from flowing unchecked into open burners or unlit pilots, which could create a hazardous situation.
- Return the Gas Safety Shut-Off Valve at the Gas Meter to the 'On' Position (12 o'clock position): Locate the main gas meter outside your building. Identify the primary safety shut-off valve, which is usually a quarter-turn valve. Using a wrench (if necessary and appropriate for the valve type), carefully turn the valve handle until it is parallel with the gas pipe, typically pointing upwards towards the '12 o'clock' position. This aligns the internal valve mechanism, allowing gas to flow into your property's internal piping.
- Re-light Any Pilot Lights by Following the Appliance Manufacturer's Instructions: Once the main gas supply is restored, you will need to go to each appliance that uses a pilot light and re-light it. Do not attempt to guess; always refer to the specific instructions provided in the owner's manual for each appliance. Procedures vary between models and manufacturers.
It is crucial to understand that if the gas was shut off due to a suspected leak or a safety issue, you should never attempt to turn it back on yourself. In such cases, always contact your gas utility company or a qualified professional. Turning gas back on after a leak can be extremely dangerous.
