Switching to natural gas — frequently asked questions

If your question is not answered here, or if you'd like more information, please contact us.

What is the cost comparison of oil, LP or electric to natural gas?
You can compare costs using our natural gas savings calculators. It will also show potential savings by switching to natural gas.

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Should I call Gopher State One Call before Minnesota Energy Resources installs my natural gas line?
No need. We'll make that call. Gopher State One Call will then locate all underground utilities within 2 business days. You'll need to arrange for locating all privately owned underground lines and equipment. These include items such as sprinkler systems, septic systems and drain fields.

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Can I have my natural gas meter installed anywhere on my building?
We'll work with you to find the best place for your meter. Usually, we place meters along the wall that faces the road where the gas main is located, or just around the corner. Remember, building or safety codes may dictate how close your gas meter can be to windows, doors, exhaust outlets or fresh-air intakes. Your gas meter needs to be at least 3 to 5 feet from your electric meter.

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I'd like to switch my mobile home to natural gas. Does it have to meet any special standards?
Mobile homes don't have to meet any special standards before switching to natural gas. But if you install a natural gas furnace and water heater, be sure those are approved for mobile home use.

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If there's a natural gas main beneath the road in front of my building, how much will it cost to get natural gas to my building?
We would need to provide you with an estimate. To deliver natural gas, we would install a service line from the main to the building. Many things, such as the distance from the gas main to your building, permits, winter weather and the need to go under or around obstacles, can impact the cost. Call us at 800-889-9508 for more information.

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What's included when Minnesota Energy Resources installs a natural gas service line? Can I have my gas grill connected?
We install the service line from the gas main to your building. Then we connect the gas meter on the outside of the building. But we don't run gas piping from the gas meter to a house or any other building, gas grill, pool heater or other area. A licensed plumber or contractor can help you with that.

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Is there an added cost if the natural gas main is located on the opposite side of the road from my building?
Not necessarily. For most gas service installations, we determine the cost by measuring from the gas meter to your property line. Permits and winter construction charges can also impact the cost.

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If there is no gas main located on my road, how much will it cost to get natural gas service?
We would need to provide you with an estimate. To get natural gas to your building, we would need to extend a gas main along the road in front of the building. Then we would install a service line to your building. The cost would depend on the length of the main extension and other factors. Call us at 800-889-9508 for more information.

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Will Minnesota Energy Resources fix my lawn after installing my natural gas service line?
We'll restore the area between your property line and the road with black dirt and seed, or gravel (to match the nearby area). In your yard, we'll level the trench area and do a basic clean-up of the lawn. However, you'll probably want to add some finishing touches to restore the area to your liking.

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Can Minnesota Energy Resources install gas piping to my appliances?
No. You'll need to call a heating or plumbing contractor to install gas piping to your appliances.

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Once I apply for natural gas service, how long will it take to get it?
It usually takes about a month from the date you apply. But that can vary based on the time of year, number of applications we have and the weather. It's always best to apply early.

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