Q: Which types of gas pipes are more susceptible to leaks?

• <div><p>Any gas pipe can leak, especially if it&rsquo;s old or isn&rsquo;t properly maintained. However, even with a shovel, plastic pipes are more easily damaged by impact. That&rsquo;s why it&rsquo;s so important to have gas lines marked by the utility company before you begin digging for any reason. Some metal pipes, like black pipes, galvanized steel, and copper, aren&rsquo;t as easily damaged by impact but can degrade over the years, leading to leaks. </p></div>

Question 1

Can I fix a gas leak myself?

Accepted Answer

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No, homeowners should never attempt to fix a gas leak themselves. Gas leaks pose serious health and fire hazards. Exposure to leaking gas can make you sick, and accumulated gas can ignite and explode. So always take leaks seriously and seek the help of a pro right away. While you may be able to detect a gas leak, always call a licensed professional to handle repairs and replacements.

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 you use galvanized pipe for propane and natural gas?

Accepted Answer

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While some building codes allow galvanized pipe for natural gas, it shouldn’t be used for propane. Propane can cause the pipe to wear down, leading to dangerous leaks. Instead of galvanized piping for propane, you should consider coated copper, black iron, or corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST). For underground propane line installation, you can use polyethylene (PE).

Question 4

Is it better to vent a gas water heater out of the wall or roof?

Accepted Answer

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Venting a gas water heater out of the roof is preferable in most cases. Heated exhaust gases naturally rise, so a vertical vent pipe is efficient. If you’re trying to vent through a pipe exiting a wall, the angle of the pipe may be more horizontal than vertical, making the venting system less effective. If you go through a wall, you may need to add a fan to ensure a successful expulsion of the gases outdoors.

Question 5

Which types of gas pipes are more susceptible to leaks?

Accepted Answer

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Any gas pipe can leak, especially if it’s old or isn’t properly maintained. However, even with a shovel, plastic pipes are more easily damaged by impact. That’s why it’s so important to have gas lines marked by the utility company before you begin digging for any reason. Some metal pipes, like black pipes, galvanized steel, and copper, aren’t as easily damaged by impact but can degrade over the years, leading to leaks.