Have Questions?
Give Us a Call.
Use the Chart Below to Find the Correct Number.
NOTE: Please call if you are unable to have your natural gas temporarily disconnected, or if you know a neighbor who is unable to get notification of this service.
Gas Meter Exchange Program
Did you get an email or letter from us about exchanging your natural gas meter soon? This page will explain the program, answer your questions and outline ways to make the exchange go smoothly.
Making Sure Natural Gas Meters are Safe and Accurate
This annual program is our way of making sure our natural gas meters are safe and accurate. We test the integrity and accuracy of each meter exchanged, and can make those results available.
About the Exchange Program
An Ongoing Program
To ensure safety and accuracy we exchange and test a percentage of our natural gas meters every year.
Flexible Scheduling
We will schedule your replacement, or you can call to schedule it. Use the chart below to find the number for your area.
Quick and Easy
We do our best to make the exchange as quick as possible to minimize inconvenience.Before Your Exchange
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We will reach out to you in a letter to let you know we are exchanging the meters in your area.
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You will receive a postcard from us within a week of your scheduled replacement date.
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If you would prefer to schedule this exchange at a convenient time, please give us a call. Use the chart below to find the phone number for your area.
On the Day of Your Exchange
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We will come to your door and let you know we are going to begin the meter exchange.
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When the exchange is safely completed we will turn your gas back on and relight the pilot lights of your gas appliances.
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Due to safety reasons we will only be able to reconnect your service if an adult 18 years or older is home.
What if You're Not at Home?
We’ll Tag Your Door
We will leave a tag on your door requesting that you call 888-450-9054 to schedule a meter turn on and relight.
Turning Gas Back On
It could take up to 24 hours to turn on your service and relight your appliances, depending on weather and other circumstances.Frequently Asked Questions
How much time will the exchange take?
The exchange process takes approximately 1.5 - 2 hours, and will include installation of a new bypass meter stand. We will turn off your gas, remove the meter, and install the new stand and meter. Finally, we will come inside to light any pilots and check for leaks.
I didn’t ask for a new meter, why are you exchanging it?
This is a program that Consumers Energy performs every spring/summer/fall pursuant to Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) requirements to exchange “older” gas meters so they can be tested for accuracy. In 2020, we began exchanging meters to accommodate a new type of meter stand that allows for work to be done on the meter (including any future exchanges) without interruption to the customer's gas flow.
Will the replacement be the same kind of meter?
Consumers Energy is transitioning the meters we have historically used to an upgraded installation that will allow meter work to be done without interruption to our customers. This installation includes a new "Bypass Meter Stand" that looks a little bit different but has benefits to our customers. Meters can be removed and exchanged without interruption or the need for relighting of appliances (whenever needed). This transition began in 2020.
Do I need to be at home during the exchange?
Most people like to be home so their pilot lights can be re-lit, but it is not necessary. If you cannot be home we will put a green tag on your door to let you know your gas is turned off. This tag will include the phone number to call for us to return to turn your gas back on. We do ask someone to be in the home who is 18 years old or older when we turn the gas back on; we will not enter the home if only minor children are present.
How do I know the person at my front door is from Consumers Energy?
All of our employees are required to wear an ID Badge and will drive a Company van with the Consumers Energy Logo on the side of it. Please before allowing anyone in your home; ask to see their ID badge. Your safety is important to us. If you are still uncomfortable, please call our office at 1-800-477-5050 and ask if this person is indeed an employee of Consumers Energy.
As the homeowner, is there anything I need to do before you arrive?
We ask that you keep the area around the meter free from debris and/or foliage. If you have a pet, please secure them in another room.
Will the new meter be a smart meter?
This is a new technology upgrade that uses a radio signal to read the meter. This allows us to read your meter in a timely manner from the street using an electronic wand, without stepping onto your property.
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