Gas Line Installation: Everything You Need To Know

Natural gas is a home essential, especially if you use it for cooking and heating elements such as furnaces and water heaters. However, natural gas can be lethal to your health and safety if it leaks into your home. Therefore, it's essential to ensure proper installation and maintenance of the gas pipes in your home.

A gas line installation expert can help you choose, install, and maintain the gas piping in your home for optimal performance.

Here's everything you should know about gas piping.

How Gas Piping Works

The gas piping in your home will use pressure to transfer gas from the tank or main supply to the heating element in your home, such as a furnace or water heater. The gas will move through a mainline from the distribution line to your home, which the gas utility company maintains. You are responsible for maintaining the gas lines in your home to prevent leakage and possible accidents.

The gas will go through a pressure regulator to avoid overpowering your piping system.

Different Gas Piping Materials

There are a variety of piping materials you can use to supply and distribute gas in your home. However, the choice of material depends on the utility provider because some gas companies prohibit various piping materials. Therefore, always consult your gas provider on their acceptable piping materials.

Some of the common piping material options include the following:

• Steel
• Black iron
• HDPE
• PVC

Steel gas pipes are a favorite among many homeowners because of their flexibility and easy installation. The pipes are especially a good choice if you live in disaster-prone areas because the tubes are very durable and resistant to damage. On the downside, steel tubes crack over time because of corrosion. As such, you should only use them for indoor piping where there's no exposure to water. Alternatively, use only galvanized steel for both outdoor and indoor piping.

Black iron is also a commonly used piping material for residential spaces. It is durable and heat-resistant, and it can seal out air and external elements. On the downside, black iron is susceptible to corrosion, and the sealant can also peel off, exposing your pipes to damage. If you use these pipes for your home, hire a gas piping installation expert to maintain them.

PVC and HDPE pipes are your best alternative if you prefer corrosion-resistant materials. These pipes are ideal for underground gas pipelines because they are heat-resistant and water-resistant. PVC is cheaper, but some municipalities don't allow PVC gas lines. Consult the local authorities before buying and installing PVC pipes.

If you need clarification on the type of piping material to use for your home, consult a gas line installation company. Depending on your home's structure and the gas provider's specifications, they will advise you on the best materials.