Question 1

Should I switch from oil heat to gas?

Accepted Answer

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This is a matter of personal preference, as each method has its own pros and cons. Oil furnaces are safer, but the smell can be off-putting to some consumers. Oil is also more expensive than gas. However, oil furnaces boast a higher BTU rate per hour, so a smaller amount of oil can heat a larger space when compared to a gas furnace.

Question 2

How long does it take to install a gas line?

Accepted Answer

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Installing a gas line is no simple task. From start to finish, you’re looking at anywhere from six to 12 weeks to acquire the correct permits, dig a trench, and connect your appliances. Naturally, the longer the gas line, the longer it will take to complete. If your plumber needs to hire additional contractors to dig trenches and navigate around or remove obstacles, this could put you at the longer end of the timeframe.

Once the land is prepped and licenses acquired, installing the actual line may only take a few days to a few weeks, weather permitting.

Question 3

Can I install a pre-fabricated gas fireplace myself?

Accepted Answer

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DIY installation is not recommended due to the complexities of gas line work and venting; professional installation ensures safety and compliance.

Question 4

Should a plumber be licensed and certified to install gas lines?

Accepted Answer

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Yes, most states require a plumber to be licensed, and for good reason. Hiring an unlicensed plumber could lead to poor quality work, costly future expenses, and potential code violations. Check our state licensing tool to review the local plumber guidelines.

As you browse our pro listings, take note of the “Angi Approved” badge. Angi Approved businesses meet our standards for certification, which include:

The owner, principal, or relevant manager passed a criminal background check
Required to have applicable state and local licenses
Maintain an average star rating of 3.0 or better on our network, if they have at least one review
Paying to advertise their services
Meeting any other eligibility criteria required by Angi

Keep in mind licensing is different from certifications. A license is a legal requirement to operate a business, while certifications are voluntary.

Question 5

Can you cap a gas pipe with a compression fitting?

Accepted Answer

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No, you shouldn't cap a gas pipe with a compression fitting because they aren't designed for gas lines and can pose serious safety risks. Gas pipes require threaded caps that create a secure, leak-proof seal capable of handling gas pressure. Using a compression fitting could lead to dangerous gas leaks—a hazard you definitely want to avoid.