Gas lines are a crucial part of your property’s plumbing system that you should know about!
When many people in northern Utah think of plumbers, they consider professionals who fix toilets, faucets, drains, sinks and water heaters. In essence, most people assume that plumbers only handle water-related fixtures and systems.
And although plumbers do often support water systems and fixtures, they’re also qualified to work on gas lines. Many industry organizations have classified gas piping as a form of plumbing, and most of our local codes require licensed plumbers to conduct gas line installations, maintenance and repairs.
So, let’s take a closer look at why gas lines are classified as a type of plumbing system, and what you can do to make good investment decisions oriented around your property’s natural gas services!
What Exactly Are Gas Lines?
Gas lines are residential and commercial pipes that carry natural gas from municipal supply sources into your home or business.
Also referred to as gas piping, gas lines are the most effective way to provide natural gas for your appliances.
What Exactly Is A Gas Line Plumber?
Many Master Plumbers also specialize in gas line installations, repairs and maintenance.
Gas line plumbers are qualified to inspect gas lines and identify lingering issues. They can also troubleshoot any repair issues, and replace gas lines when necessary. Gas line plumbers also help home and business owners with fuel-burning appliances, including gas stoves, furnaces and gas water heaters.
How Exactly Do Gas Piping Systems Work?
Gas piping systems are essentially the network of gas lines throughout your property. Many of your appliances will utilize natural gas from these complex distribution systems.
Gas piping systems heavily rely upon pressure to deliver natural gas from municipal sources to your various pipes. Once municipal gas reaches your neighborhood, it’ll eventually go from the main municipal line to your property’s service line. Utility companies will manage main service lines, but home and business owners are responsible for the gas appliances, pipes and equipment that draw fuel from municipal service lines.
This is why home and business owners throughout northern Utah need to have plumbing experts inspect their gas lines on at least a yearly basis, because the complex nature of gas piping systems on private property can lead to all sorts of expensive repairs and maintenance needs!
What Are The Most Common Gas Piping Materials?
There are many gas piping materials that are used at both residential and commercial properties throughout northern Utah. The type of gas line at your property might depend upon local codes and regulations, as well as your property’s age.
The good news is that the Beehive team works with all sorts of different gas piping materials, and we’ll know which materials are permitted within your local area’s rules.
Some of the most common gas piping materials include:
Corrugated Stainless-Steel Tubing
One great feature of corrugated steel is that it’s incredibly flexible, which is why it’s a popular choice for homes in extreme climates like northern Utah.
However, it’s important to note that this flexibility is sort of like a double-edged sword, because it can also make the pipes vulnerable to cracking or stretching over long periods of time. This is why regular inspections are necessary when you have corrugated steel tubing gas lines.
Galvanized Steel
Galvanized steel is energy efficient and very sturdy, which is why it’s an appropriate material for both outdoor and indoor gas lines. Galvanized steel is highly regarded for its reliability, but one thing to keep in mind is that this material does require a more labor-intensive installation process.
Black Iron
Black iron is another very popular material that’s used for both outdoor and indoor gas lines. It’s resistant to extreme temperatures, and is incredibly strong.
Black iron also is very popular due its ability to create airtight seals, which lowers the overall risk of properties experiencing gas leaks.
PVC
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a very popular choice for underground gas lines, and this is partly because this material doesn’t corrode. However, PVC can sometimes experience issues when improperly installed. This is why some municipalities prohibit PVC gas lines.
We’ll help you better understand whether or not PVC is permitted in your local area.
HDPE
High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is another popular option for outdoor gas lines. This material is both versatile and economical, but it does require an expert installation process.
This is because HDPE pipes are sometimes susceptible to tree root infiltration and underground rocks.
Copper
Copper used to be a very popular piping material, but a lot of municipalities no longer allow it due to its limited lifespan.
If you believe that your property’s existing copper pipes are coming close to their life expectancy, we’ll help you make arrangements for a replacement.
What Are The Most Common Gas Line Repair Issues?
Gas lines are invaluable for countless homes and businesses, but they can become vulnerable to leaks and other issues without proper monitoring and professional inspections.
There’s absolutely no denying just how dangerous gas leaks can be, and some other possible gas line repair issues include:
- Loose connections
- Rusting
- Gas-fueled appliance malfunctions
- Abnormal utility bill increases
- Condensation
- Dead vegetation
Reach Out To Beehive Plumbing To Learn More About Your Plumbing System’s Gas Lines!
Beehive Plumbing is a top-rated plumbing services provider based in northern Utah, and our Master Plumbers have decades of experience working with both residential and commercial gas lines.
We understand how complicated your property’s gas lines may seem to be, so reach out to us online or call us at 801-849-3853 to get in touch with our specialists today and let us know what’s currently happening within your property’s gas lines!
