Q: How much does it cost to repair a gas leak?

• <div>The cost to repair a gas leak is $120 to $250 on average, but it could be as costly as $5,000, depending on the leak location and severity. For example, if you have drywall covering the source of the leak, you'll need to hire a contractor to replace the removed drywall. In addition, if the leak is underground, you'll need a contractor to excavate the ground to reach the gas line. </div>

Question 1

How much does it cost to repair a gas leak?

Accepted Answer

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The cost to repair a gas leak is $120 to $250 on average, but it could be as costly as $5,000, depending on the leak location and severity.

For example, if you have drywall covering the source of the leak, you'll need to hire a contractor to replace the removed drywall. In addition, if the leak is underground, you'll need a contractor to excavate the ground to reach the gas line.

Question 2

If my appliances have gas shut-off valves, do I still need a seismic shut-off valve?

Accepted Answer

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Even if you invested in the cost of a gas shut-off valve for your oven and other appliances, it’s a good idea to add a seismic shut-off valve as an extra safety measure.

Gas shut-off valves for appliances are manual, meaning someone has to cut off the flow of gas. This leaves room for error, as you might not be home or might be too distracted to think about gas lines during an earthquake. An earthquake valve is automatic and will protect your home from gas-related disasters in the event of an earthquake.

Question 3

Does a gas fireplace need a chimney?

Accepted Answer

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Not all gas fireplaces need a chimney. If you install a ventless gas fireplace, it will release low levels of combustion byproducts back into your living space (instead of pushing them outside through a chimney or vent). Ventless fireplaces burn fuel efficiently, so the emissions are minimal—but they could bother people with allergies or respiratory issues.

Question 4

What tubing should I pick for my new natural gas line?

Accepted Answer

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If you're connecting your gas line to appliances, the pro doing the work may recommend flexible corrugated stainless-steel tubing (CCST). Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) with high-density polyethylene (HDPE) is another relatively inexpensive material commonly used for residential pipes. Ultimately, you'll need to find out what is permitted based on the code requirements in your area.

Question 5

Can you leave a propane tank empty?

Accepted Answer

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Yes, you can store a propane tank, whether it is full or empty. Remember that the container is contaminated with hazardous materials once it has housed propane, but as long as it’s properly placed in a well-ventilated, temperature-controlled space, a tank is unlikely to cause issues whether it is full of propane or not.