UGI Utilities, a natural gas and electric utility company serving Pennsylvania and Maryland, does not directly install gas furnaces for its customers. Instead, UGI’s role is to install the gas service line from the street to the customer’s property, while the actual installation of the gas furnace is handled by a licensed HVAC contractor hired by the customer.
What is UGI’s Role in Gas Furnace Installation?
UGI’s Responsibilities
- Gas Service Line Installation: UGI is responsible for installing the gas service line from the street to the customer’s property. This includes obtaining necessary permits, digging the trench, laying the gas line, and connecting it to the customer’s meter.
- Coordination with HVAC Contractor: UGI will coordinate with the customer’s chosen HVAC contractor to ensure the gas service line is installed in a timely manner, allowing the contractor to complete the furnace installation.
HVAC Contractor’s Responsibilities
- Furnace Selection and Purchase: The customer is responsible for selecting and purchasing the gas furnace they want installed.
- Furnace Installation: The HVAC contractor hired by the customer is responsible for the actual installation and connection of the gas furnace to the gas service line provided by UGI.
Eligibility and Requirements for UGI’s Gas Service Line Installation
Eligible Customers
- UGI’s gas service line installation services are available to existing and new UGI gas residential customers in Pennsylvania with specific rate classes (R, RT, N, and NT).
- Customers in Maryland are not eligible for these services.
Contractor Selection
- Customers must select an HVAC contractor to install the gas furnace.
- UGI provides a Contractor Locator Tool to help customers find trusted contractors in their area.
Costs and Fees for Gas Furnace Installation
Gas Service Line Installation
- The cost of installing the gas service line is typically covered by UGI as part of their service, but specific costs may vary depending on the complexity of the installation.
Furnace Installation
- The cost of installing the gas furnace is borne by the customer and will depend on the contractor’s rates and the type of furnace chosen.
- There are no additional fees mentioned for UGI’s part in the process, but there may be rebates available for purchasing an ENERGY STAR certified furnace.
Timeline for Scheduling and Completion
Scheduling
- The timeline for scheduling the installation can vary, but generally, once the customer has selected an HVAC contractor and scheduled the installation, UGI will coordinate with the contractor to ensure the gas service line is installed in a timely manner.
Completion
- The completion time depends on the complexity of the installation and the availability of the contractor and UGI’s crew.
- Typically, once the gas service line is installed, the HVAC contractor will complete the furnace installation.
Types of Gas Furnaces Supported by UGI
Authorized Furnaces
- UGI recommends and supports the installation of ENERGY STAR certified natural gas furnaces.
- There are no specific brands mentioned, but the furnace must meet ENERGY STAR certification standards to be eligible for rebates.
Regulations and Safety Standards
Compliance
- UGI adheres to all relevant safety standards and regulations during the gas service line installation process.
- This includes obtaining necessary permits and ensuring that the installation meets local and national safety codes.
In summary, while UGI Utilities does not directly install gas furnaces, they play a crucial role in the process by providing the necessary gas service line to the customer’s property. The customer is responsible for selecting and hiring an HVAC contractor to handle the actual furnace installation and connection to the UGI-provided gas service line.
