Seismic Shut Off Valve Replacements & Installations

SoCal Sewer and Water installs and replaces seismic gas shutoff valves for residential and commercial properties. A seismic shutoff valve is designed to automatically interrupt gas flow when significant earthquake movement activates the device.

What Does a Seismic Valve Do?

The valve contains a mechanical triggering mechanism that reacts to qualifying seismic movement. Once activated, it stops downstream gas flow. A seismic shutoff valve does not prevent earthquake damage. It can help reduce continued gas flow if downstream piping or equipment is damaged.

Residential Installations

Residential seismic valves are typically installed near the main gas service. Proper sizing and orientation are important to ensure correct operation.

Commercial Installations

Commercial gas systems may require larger valves because of higher flow requirements. Apartment buildings, restaurants, retail buildings, and other commercial properties may benefit from automatic seismic shutoff protection.

Replacing Existing Valves

Replacement may be appropriate if the device is corroded, damaged, incorrectly sized, or unable to reset properly.

After an Earthquake

A triggered seismic valve should not necessarily be reset without considering whether downstream piping has been damaged. SoCal Sewer and Water can evaluate gas-system conditions where appropriate before normal service resumes. A seismic shutoff valve works best as one part of a broader gas-safety strategy that includes functional shutoff valves, maintained piping, proper appliance connectors, and professional installation.