Q: What should I ask a plumber before hiring them to cap a gas line?

• <div><p>Before you <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/should-i-hire-specialty-natural-gas-plumber.htm">hire a natural gas plumber</a>, it&rsquo;s a good idea to get quotes from multiple pros to find the best value. When speaking with prospective plumbers, ask them if they&rsquo;re licensed to work with gas lines, what precautions they take to ensure safety during the project, and how to handle an emergency if there&rsquo;s a leak after the job. You may also want to know about warranties or guarantees, additional costs, how to prep your home, and if you&rsquo;ll need to relight your pilot lights.</p></div>

Q: Does propane burn differently than natural gas?

• <div><p>In some ways, yes, and in some ways, no. As for how they&rsquo;re the same, propane and gas both burn via the same process, combustion, and at the same temperature, around 3,600 degrees Fahrenheit. The difference is that propane produces more heat per unit than gas. One cubic foot of propane contains 2,516 BTU, while one cubic foot of gas contains 1,030 BTU.</p></div>

Q: Can you leave a gas line uncapped?

• <div><p>No, you shouldn&rsquo;t leave a gas line uncapped because it can allow gas to escape into your environment, which can lead to fires, explosions, and health hazards. That&rsquo;s why it&rsquo;s critical to properly cap and seal any unused gas lines as soon as you can. If you&rsquo;re not comfortable with that, you can always call a licensed plumber to safely handle it for you. </p></div>

Question 1

What should I ask a plumber before hiring them to cap a gas line?

Accepted Answer

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Before you hire a natural gas plumber, it’s a good idea to get quotes from multiple pros to find the best value. When speaking with prospective plumbers, ask them if they’re licensed to work with gas lines, what precautions they take to ensure safety during the project, and how to handle an emergency if there’s a leak after the job. You may also want to know about warranties or guarantees, additional costs, how to prep your home, and if you’ll need to relight your pilot lights.

Question 2

Who do I call to install a new natural gas line?

Accepted Answer

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Most qualified local plumbers in your area should be able to help with this job. However, it's always best to check with your utility company before starting any gas-related project. Speak with them about your needs and request recommendations for licensed plumbers who can pull permits and properly install the line.

Question 3

Does propane burn differently than natural gas?

Accepted Answer

•

In some ways, yes, and in some ways, no. As for how they’re the same, propane and gas both burn via the same process, combustion, and at the same temperature, around 3,600 degrees Fahrenheit. The difference is that propane produces more heat per unit than gas. One cubic foot of propane contains 2,516 BTU, while one cubic foot of gas contains 1,030 BTU.

Question 4

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 5

Can you leave a gas line uncapped?

Accepted Answer

•

No, you shouldn’t leave a gas line uncapped because it can allow gas to escape into your environment, which can lead to fires, explosions, and health hazards. That’s why it’s critical to properly cap and seal any unused gas lines as soon as you can. If you’re not comfortable with that, you can always call a licensed plumber to safely handle it for you.