Meter/Service Revision FAQs

What is a "BTU load" and where do I find this information?
"BTU" stands for British Thermal Unit and is the measure of how much (volume) gas your appliance requires to turn on.  On most appliances, this information will be on an easy-to-find metal tag on the unit or in the appliance specification documents. Your Service Representative needs this information to insure the gas service line from the street and the meter are sized properly. If you are unable to find the BTU information for your appliance, please contact the equipment manufacturer.

How do I know that I need to increase pressure or determine that pressure is already greater than ¼#?
Most residences do not require pressure above ¼#, our standard pressure at residential meters. If you are having new appliances installed, please ask your installer if the appliance requires more pressure than 7" of water column (pressure requirement ranges are usually notated as X"–Y" w. c.)  Residential appliances that may require higher pressure are usually older, on-demand hot water heaters and generators. Most pool heaters do not require an increase in pressure. If you are unsure if you have more than ¼# of pressure at the meter, please ask your Service Representative.

If you are inquiring about business or industrial use, please check with your Service Representative for the pressure at the meter.

Can I get a second service to my property?
No. Nicor Gas no longer runs more than one service line on the same property.

I have added an out-building at my residence or subdivided my commercial building. Can I get additional meters?
Yes. All additional meters will be installed at the existing meter location unless there is no room to accommodate the additional meters. If there is no room for additional meters, the service line will need to be moved to where the meters can be installed.

How much will these meter/service revisions cost, and why does Nicor Gas charge?
Charges will vary depending on what needs to be done to fulfill your request. You will receive a quote of charges in a proposal contract. Nicor Gas charges for customer-requested revisions to all existing facilities. You will not be charged if Nicor Gas initiates changes for upkeep, gas main revisions or planned system upgrades.

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