getting connected
is firmus gas in my area?
If you live in Greater Belfast click here!
To keep prices down, we don't put pipes in every street, so to see if you can get connected to natural gas, see if you have natural gas in your area in the righthand tool. This allows you to enter your postcode and check for a possible connection (updated monthly). Or you can call us on 08456 08 00 88.
If your property is suitable for connection,i.e. within 30 metres of a suitable gas mains then you should be eligible for connection.
Now that you should be able to get connected, call us on 08456 08 0088 to arrange a time for a firmus energy advisor to come out and visit you.
We will highlight for you the benefits of natural gas compared with your current fuel. There is no charge for this visit and you are under no obligation after the survey.
We will check where your meter box will go - it has to be easy to access for meter reading. We will then walk you through the installation process and will discuss any issues that you may have, including the cost of conversion from your current fuel to natural gas.
You will be provided with a quote on the cost of installation of the gas supply, up to and including the meter.
If your house is within 30 metres from suitable gas main, then this supply is normally free of charge for a central heating conversion.
Having decided that you would like to convert to natural gas, the next step is to choose an installer. You must choose a Gas Safe registered installer as they are specially trained on gas appliances, see www.gassaferegister.co.uk, or you can call them on 0800 915 0485 for a list of installers in your area. We can also provide a list of installers who have signed up to our "customer charter." Remember to get several installer quotations as a comparison and if you are in doubt of the cost, just call up your firmus energy advisor for their advice.
The installer will do all the work inside your house and will inform you on the changes that you will need to make to your current central heating system. If you currently have oil, then you may be able to continue to use your current radiators.
If you have Economy 7, then you will be required to install radiators in your home.
A natural gas home should have a high efficiency boiler, TRV's (thermostatic radiator valves) and a central control, etc. This type of system will ensure greater efficiency long-term, saving you money.
Once you are happy with your conversion quote and the price has been agreed, installation will begin within 30 working days of giving us notice. firmus energy will bring the pipeline up to your home and install a meter on an external wall. This process is known as a service.
Your chosen installer must be informed of the meter installation date, (and should only proceed with the installation once the gas meter has been fitted).
Your home will be fitted with either a pre-payment or credit meter. This will depend on a number of circumstances and can be discussed with your firmus energy advisor.
