Proper gas piping is critical for safe and reliable operation of furnaces, water heaters, fireplaces, and other gas-powered appliances. This section offers step-by-step advice on planning gas line routes, understanding pipe sizing and material options, dealing with shutoff valves, and complying with local codes. You’ll also find guidance on leak detection, bonding and grounding, and what to expect during inspections. Whether you’re doing your own work or hiring it out, these articles help make sense of your home’s gas piping system.
This image of some rusty gas pipe inside a gas furnace is a very dramatic display of what moisture can do to steel pipe. In my experience as an HVAC technician, business owner, and my overall gut feeling about matters such as this, a one answer fits all recommendation on whether or not you should…
Yes, you can use PEX for gas lines. PEX has become quite popular in both natural gas and propane markets. Their are some important things to learn though. The difference in pressure between natural gas and propane at the house line is minimal at under one pound and measured in inches of water column. Most…
Old rusty gas piping can be an eyesore on the outside of your home. It can be painted. Read More
Is a gas pipe grounded or bonded, or both? Gas pipes should be bonded and may sometimes need to be grounded, depending on the local electrical code. Mechanical codes have improved over the years to ensure our homes and businesses’ safety and overall integrity. Bonding gas pipes to a proper ground is one of those…
Homeowners can do gas piping on a personal residence. A few rules apply.
Yes, in most jurisdictions, you can do your own gas line installation. It’s a great DIY project, and it can be done very safely. You need to get a mechanical permit. Install the piping with a pressure test on the pipe and get an inspection to approve the installation. With an approved inspection, you can…
A seismic gas shut-off valve is a simple device that mounts on the gas line next to your gas meter. Let me explain how simple and effective this device is: In the event of an earthquake the steel ball inside the device falls off its pedestal and plugs the gas line, stopping gas flow into…