What happens if you remove the lock from a gas meter?

Removing a gas lock without the utility company’s permission may result in theft or vandalism charges, punishable by fines and imprisonment of around a year, depending on the jurisdiction.

Why is there a lock on my gas meter?

A gas meter lock is a specialized lock that is placed on a gas meter to close off the flow of gas completely. In this case, the meter lock will only be removed when the debt is paid. The most common reason for a gas meter lock being applied is that you are way overdue on your payments.

What happens if you cut the lock off electric meter?

You are committing water or utility theft, and this is a crime that is subject to a fine and/or imprisonment. A person does not need to get caught tampering with a meter to be prosecuted. The person presumed responsible is the person who possesses the tampered-with or unlawfully connected meter.

How do I turn my gas back on after disconnecting?

You are going to need a wrench or gas shut off tool to do this. Very slowly, turn the meter back into the on position. The lever should be in line with the pipe after making a ninety-degree turn. Finally, you can re-light any of the pilot lights in your appliances.

Can I turn my gas on myself?

NOTE: Once you have shut off the gas at the meter, do not try to turn it back on yourself. If the gas service shutoff valve is closed, PG&E or another qualified professional should perform a safety inspection before the gas service is restored and appliance pilots are relit.

What does a black tag on electric meter mean?

The black tag on your house’s electricity meter is a security device that lets your power company know whether the meter has been tampered with. The tag is on the side or bottom of the meter’s glass cover or metal panel. You are not to cut, remove or modify the tag in any fashion.

How long does it take to get gas turned on?

Natural gas providers usually take one week to process your request.

Will pilot light go out if gas is turned off?

So long as the pilot flame remains lit, the thermocouple remains hot, and the pilot gas valve is held open. If the pilot light goes out, the thermocouple temperature falls, causing the voltage across the thermocouple to drop and the valve to close.

What does a yellow tag on a gas meter mean?

A yellow tag indicates that while the checked equipment can be operated safely, a condition exists that requires repairs or replacement. Red (Danger) Tag Conditions. Gas Leaks: Gas leaks in piping system including regulators, appliance connector/valves, or appliance that cannot be repaired at the time of the visit.

What happens if you remove a gas lock from a meter?

While laws vary by state, removing a gas lock without the express consent of the utility company who owns the meter may result in charges ranging from destruction of private property to theft of services.

How long does it take to remove a gas meter?

Once the removal process can be confirmed it should be completed within 5 working days. Do I need to fully remove a gas meter? If you stop using gas but don’t remove your meter, you will have to continue paying your gas bill. Gas meters typically belong to an asset company and a standing charge will be levied to cover the cost.

Do I have to pay a standing charge for my meter?

Most gas tariffs include a standing change – a set amount paid per day – removing your gas meter is the only way to stop paying for the meter and is the most cost-effective solution. If you think you have to pay a standing charge for your meter, we would suggest contacting your gas supplier for more advice and guidance.

Why is my energy supplier charging me to remove my meter?

They charge us (and other energy suppliers) a monthly rental fee for your meter, and in some instances they do charge suppliers for removing a meter, because they’ll lose out on future income. Right now, because we get a fairly small number of these requests, we’re shouldering these charges and removing the meters free of charge for customers.