Abstract: A method of providing a continuous supply of gas to the gas utilities of a residential or commercial building while the gas meter is disconnected from the gas service lines. The method employs a bypass valve comprising a tubular fitting to be connected in line with the gas service line conducting gas from the gas meter to such building. An auxiliary source of gas may be coupled with an auxiliary port formed on the outer wall of the fitting, such that activation of the auxiliary source acts to drive a poppet through the bypass valve to seal off the gas meter from the gas service lines. Thus the gas meter may be disconnected from such gas service lines, as the auxiliary source will provide continuous gas supply to the utilities of the building.

Abstract: A bypass valve to be connected in line with a gas service line conducting gas from a gas meter to the corresponding residence or commercial building includes an open ended tubular fitting forming a flow chamber therein having a flow inlet end and a flow outlet end and an auxiliary port formed thereon to allow for access to the gas service line by an auxiliary gas source. An open ended poppet cage is mounted internally in the flow chamber and has one end thereof connected to the auxiliary port and further has a number of ports formed in the side wall thereof defining cage outlets. A poppet comprising a cylindrical center body with enlarged-in-cross section disks at the opposite ends thereof is disposed inside the poppet cage and has free axial movement therein.