Q: Is pipe size inside or outside diameter?

• <div><p>The size of a pipe isn&rsquo;t always the outside or inside diameter. Rather, it&rsquo;s a nominal diameter that depends on the type of pipe. For male pipes, you&rsquo;ll need to measure the outside diameter. For female pipes, you&rsquo;ll need to measure the inside diameter. You&rsquo;ll then need to use a nominal diameter conversion chart to get the actual pipe size you&rsquo;d buy in the store.</p></div>

Question 1

How often should I have my gas system inspected?

Accepted Answer

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Consider an annual inspection conducted by a local plumber to prevent dangerous and destructive leaks. If you recently moved into an older home or are concerned about the age of your gas lines, call an inspector for a closer look. You may also be required to call an inspector after your contractor installs a new line for an appliance.

Question 2

Is pipe size inside or outside diameter?

Accepted Answer

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The size of a pipe isn’t always the outside or inside diameter. Rather, it’s a nominal diameter that depends on the type of pipe. For male pipes, you’ll need to measure the outside diameter. For female pipes, you’ll need to measure the inside diameter. You’ll then need to use a nominal diameter conversion chart to get the actual pipe size you’d buy in the store.

Question 3

What is the best sealant for gas pipes?

Accepted Answer

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The best sealant for gas pipes is usually a pipe joint compound, or pipe dope. It creates a durable, leak-proof seal that is resistant to high pressure and vibrations, and it doesn’t break down like tape can. Yellow Teflon tape, or PTFE tape, can also be a good option and is a safe and reliable sealant for gas pipes when you or a pro apply it correctly.

Question 4

Can you vent a gas water heater out the side of the house?

Accepted Answer

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You can and should vent the gas from your hot water heater to the outside of your home. Traditionally, these gases were vented back to other gas appliances, like stoves or furnaces, but many jurisdictions have outlawed this practice due to the risks it provides.

Most water heaters today use atmospheric venting that exhausts the gas out of the home through a pipe.

Question 5

Can you fix a hole in a gas line?

Accepted Answer

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No, fixing or patching a hole in a gas line may not seal it completely. A patch should be a temporary solution because the damaged area will be weaker than the rest of the pipe, increasing the likelihood of future leaks. Therefore, if a gas line incurs damage, call a licensed plumber and have it replaced right away.