Earthquake Valves - In Demand Plumbing Antioch CA

Earthquake Valves / Seismic Valves

Why You Need Earthquake Valves Fitted in Your Home

Home owners living in earthquake prone areas like California need to take special care to protect their homes during such natural disasters. Installing earthquake valves is a very important thing for you to do in this regard. If you haven’t got one installed yet, call a reliable plumbing service today to have an earthquake valve put in right away.

What Does an Earthquake Valve Do?

Earthquake valves or seismic valves ensure that the gas supply to your home is cut off when an earthquake occurs. The valve will shut down the supply even if the gas line is damaged due to other reasons. This prevents gas leaks or fires that may prove to be very dangerous to the members of your family in the home at the time. Even if the house is empty at the time of the leak, a gas explosion or fire can cause immense damage to your property. By installing an earthquake valve you eliminate all these risks. 

An Essential Safety Measure

Many homeowners believe that they do not need earthquake valves because they shut off the gas supply when they leave home. This can prove to be a disastrous mistake. An earthquake can occur at any time- when you are asleep, when you are out in the backyard, when you have just stepped out to your neighbor’s or when you are at work. You may not turn off the gas supply every time you step out for a minute or when you go to sleep. By installing an earthquake valve you get the peace of mind of knowing that you are safe from gas leaks even if a natural calamity does occur.

Legal Requirements

In some cities and counties across earthquake prone areas like California, the law requires that you install a good quality earthquake valve in your home. This requirement has been put in place to protect the public and their homes from the massive damage that a gas leak can cause if your pipes are damaged during an earthquake. Many other cities and counties are following the lead and making the installation of these devices a legal requirement. 

In addition to local laws making earthquake/ seismic valves mandatory, insurance companies may also ask you to have one installed in your home when you want to take out a homeowner’s policy. Considering that these devices protect your life and property, and that they may be required by law, it is in your best interests to call in a professional plumber to install your earthquake valve right away.