To install a new gas meter and connect your dryer and stove in Illinois, you must have all gas piping and appliance connections completed by a qualified professional in accordance with the International Fuel Gas Code and local utility requirements. The utility company will not install a meter until your system passes inspection.
Before utility installation

1. Hire a qualified professional
In Illinois, all new gas piping, fittings, and equipment must be installed by a licensed plumber or heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) professional.
The contractor is responsible for acquiring all necessary permits from your local building department.
2. Convert your appliances
If you are switching from propane or another fuel, your contractor must install manufacturer-provided conversion kits for your stove and dryer to work with natural gas.
3. Install appropriate gas lines
Your contractor must install new, properly sized gas piping (typically black steel pipe) from the intended meter location to each appliance.
The pipe must be sized correctly to supply enough gas to meet the combined British Thermal Unit (BTU) demand of all your appliances. An undersized line can cause poor appliance performance and is a safety hazard.
Each appliance must have its own accessible shutoff valve installed in the same room.
4. Ensure proper appliance connection
Connectors: Appliances like your stove and dryer often use flexible connectors. In the City of Chicago and potentially other jurisdictions, these connectors must be properly coated.
Clearances: Ensure all appliances are installed with the proper clearances from walls, windows, and vents as specified by the manufacturer and code.
When the utility installs the meter
1. Prepare for utility access
The utility will require clear and safe access to the meter location to complete the installation.
The site must be at or near the final grade level, and the meter location must be clear of all debris and landscaping.
2. The inspection process
Pressure test: The contractor is responsible for pressure testing the new interior gas piping before it is connected to the meter.
Utility inspection: Before turning on service, the utility company (such as Ameren or Nicor Gas) will inspect the installed piping and equipment to ensure it is up to code and safe. They can refuse service if they find any hazardous conditions.
Final inspection: Your local permitting agency may also require a final inspection of the work before approving it.
Key safety considerations
Do not reuse old connectors. If your old appliances were previously connected, any flexible connectors should be replaced with new ones when installing your new appliances.
Ensure proper ventilation. Your appliances must have an adequate and correctly vented air supply for safe and efficient combustion.
Follow manufacturer instructions. Always follow the manufacturer's installation and operation guidelines for your specific stove and dryer models.