Construction typically occurs during summer or early autumn. The main gas lines that are constructed in the road right-of- ways will be laid first. Once this is completed the individual service line will be run to your home.
You will need to give DTE Energy a two-day notice so that we can schedule a visit to set the gas meter. In order for us to set the gas meter, at least one appliance will need to be available that is ready to run on natural gas. (Some, but not all, propane-powered appliances can be converted to run on natural gas; see below for more information.) If you have a propane tank, it will need to be disconnected .
Converting appliances to natural gas
Your existing gas-powered appliances will need to be converted for natural gas. DTE Energy can help you find qualified, licensed heating and plumbing contractors in your area. Many are listed in your local yellow pages. You can also search online for heating or plumbing contractors or appliance repair services. We recommend that you obtain at least two estimates.
Leftover propane or fuel oil
Most dealers will not accept fuel returns from your tank or, if they do, it will be at a discounted rate. Ideally, you’ll want to be almost out of fuel on your conversion day. Your propane or oil dealer may also have suggestions for your remaining fuel. If you own your fuel tank, consider selling it by listing an ad in the local newspaper or contacting builders or contractors in your area.
How will installation affect my yard?
We love a nice lawn as much as you do. DTE Energy and our sub-contractors take pride in restoring your property after the installation is completed. In most cases, the installation path is only slightly noticeable. By the end of the summer you will never know we were there!
Switching costs
When we extend our gas lines, we calculate both the investment costs and the revenue that will be generated from the project. If there is a shortfall in revenue, you are asked to pay a portion of the construction costs. This ensures that your installation costs will not be passed along to all other customers in the form of a rate increase.
Once you become a DTE Energy customer, you can be confident that conversion costs from other consumers making the switch to natural gas will not affect your gas rate!
Connection fee
Each homeowner is asked to pre-pay a $300 connection fee. This covers the cost of your meter and a portion of the construction costs for extending natural gas service to your neighborhood.
Your portion of the construction cost
Any costs not covered by the connection fee will be portioned out to you. All portioned costs will be detailed in a letter mailed to you. You have the option of paying these costs in one lump sum or in monthly installments. You will be asked to select one of these payment options when you receive your first gas bill, or six months after your service line is installed, whichever occurs first.
Appliance conversion cost
Almost all appliances can be easily converted to natural gas. Many variables can impact the total cost, such as the amount of additional piping needed to connect all your appliances to the natural gas line. As with any home improvement project, obtain two or more estimates to get the best price.
