Installing New Natural Gas Equipment
Installing new natural gas equipment, such as generators, pool heaters, grills, etc., at a home or business will increase a customer's natural gas load. The additional load may require a meter and/or a service line upgrade.
Customers installing new natural gas equipment should gather the following information and call KUB New Service at 865-558-2555 to request a natural gas upgrade:
- Have a licensed contractor or plumber calculate the expected total natural gas load, including current and new appliances. This is measured in British thermal units (BTUs). This estimate helps KUB determine if a customer's natural gas service will need to be upgraded. Additionally, an inaccurate estimate can lead to delays and may result in new agreement(s) and job costs depending on the scope of change.
- Confirm the contractor or plumber has pulled and scheduled a final inspection permit from the appropriate authority having jursidication office, such as Knox County Codes Administation and Enforcement. Missing permits can delay the upgrade or new service.
- Have the contractor or plumber's contact information ready for the New Service Representative to contact in case questions arise during the project.
A New Service Representative will typically contact the customer within two business days to discuss costs and factors such as any needs for a new meter, a larger service line, meter relocation, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a natural gas service upgrade take?
Typically, 10–20 business days depending on workload and the type of work required.
New gas services may take longer due to site conditions or construction needs.
Can a customer start installing equipment before KUB upgrades the meter or service?
Customers may begin work, but the equipment cannot be placed into operation until the meter/service work and final inspection are complete.
Why does the meter need to be relocated?
If the existing location does not meet current clearance requirements, then the meter may need to be relocated as part of the upgrade process.
Will a customer lose service during the upgrade?
If construction is required by KUB to relocate the meter or upgrade the natural gas service line or riser, then a customer may be without service until construction is completed. Another outage will be required to exchange the meter once the inspection has passed.
Why do customers need to provide their BTU load?
The BTU load helps KUB determine whether the existing gas meter, riser, and/or service line can support the additional equipment. Accurate load information can help prevent delays and ensures safe, proper installation.
Who provides the BTU load or pressure requirement?
A licensed contractor or plumber should calculate and supply the total BTU load, including both existing appliances and any new gas equipment the customer plans to install.
Is a permit required?
Yes, the contractor or plumber must pull the appropriate permit from the appropriate authority having jurisdiction office. An inspection cannot be completed without it, and missing permits can delay the upgrade or new service.
Does KUB coordinate directly with the contractor?
Yes.
Once the customer provides the contractor’s contact information, the New Service Representative can reach out directly to the contractor should technical questions arise.
What if the BTU load doesn’t match during inspection?
If the BTU load submitted to KUB does not match the permit/inspection load, the process may be delayed and additional work may be required before the meter can be installed. This may include a new agreement(s) and job cost depending upon the scope of change.
How will a customer know if they need a meter upgrade versus a new gas service?
The New Service Representative will review the customer's BTU load and existing setup to determine the right option. The representative will explain next steps once the order is created.
Is there a cost for the upgrade or new service?
Costs vary depending on the scope of work. The New Service Representative will discuss any potential charges before work begins.
KUB Natural Gas
Experience the comfort and convenience that natural gas can bring to one's daily life. It is a versatile energy that adds immediate and lasting value to a home.
Learn MoreKUB Appliance Services
Leave the install to the experts! KUB's Appliance Services team is here to help customers with their new natural gas equipment.
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KUB’s New Service department is the entry point into KUB for customers who are either seeking new electric, gas, water or wastewater service or are seeking to upgrade or relocate existing utility facilities.
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Customers looking to start service at a home or business that is already connected to KUB's system can use the online start/stop service tools.
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