Chances are you will have a furnace or a boiler in the house, which requires a natural gas line.
Should you decide to proceed with a natural gas line installation, it’s crucial to consult with licensed gas fitters well-versed in the correct installation of galvanised steel pipes. When installed by someone who is inexperienced, pipelines carrying natural gas can be extremely dangerous. After all, you don’t want gas leaks or explosions in your own house!
Your hot water system can utilise a variety of piping options, including CSST corrugated stainless steel and galvanised steel gas pipes.
So, we will discuss them in the next section. Let’s get going!
What Kind Of Pipe For Natural Gas Is Needed?
1. Copper Pipes
Copper pipes have been used for ages to transfer water. They usually have a half to one-inch dimension and are up to 254mm in length. You can opt for thin copper pipes that work well as natural gas lines within the house. On the other hand, thick pipes work better for natural gas supply service lines.
Establishing extensive gas piping systems necessitates the connection of smaller pipelines, an operation achievable by techniques such as soldering, brazing, or the use of compression couplers and push-to-connect fittings. Aluminium tubing could be an alternative solution for such applications. These methods are full-proof, and the connections should last for years. Copper piping does not rank high in corrosion resistance, and using copper gas lines in places with direct sunlight can be extremely dangerous.
2. CSST Pipe
Stainless steel tubing, also known as a CSST pipe, can be perfect for new gas-powered units in your homes. Corrugated stainless steel tubing is often used in the oil and gas industry because they are versatile and easy to bend. So, you can use these pipes around the corners and edges of buildings.
When confronted with a choice between steel and CSST pipes, our recommendation leans towards the latter due to its lighter weight and easy installation.
Additionally, compared to copper and brass pipe versions, the stainless steel tubing can be longer and used for covering more considerable distances.
3. Black Pipe
The black iron pipe, among the most durable options used for natural gas, is a product of iron and steel. Owing to their malleability, these pipes are ideal for residential applications. You can use them for the main gas line to transfer propane and natural gas.
However, remember that these malleable iron gas pipes can only be installed with professional help. These pipes are up to ten feet long and have a diameter of 6.35mm to 50.8mm. Many people use black pipes to connect the gas valve inside the house with the outside gas line.
4. PVC Pipe
Be it water supply or gas piping, PVC pipes are a great option to choose from. They can have a length of ten to 20 feet and may come with different diameters. Today, you will quickly get gas lines measuring 12.7mm to 152.4mm in diameter on the market.
Moving on to the installation process, you will need cement, push-to-connect fittings or primer to attach the PVC pipe. Also, always remember to install it in a dark and cool area.
5. Polyethylene Pipe
When it comes to underground installations for gas transit, polyethylene pipes are an exceptional choice. They are strong and can handle water and gas. Plus, they are used for transferring natural and propane gas under any highway-like system.
You will be happy to know they are environment friendly and offer high wear resistance in places with bad weather. Polyethylene pipes do not break easily; you can join them with primer and solvent. However, it will require some digging, and it is best to call professionals for the job.
Gas Piping Issues To Be Aware Of
If you are getting a gas piping system installed, there are some signs you need to be aware of in case of any issues with your gas lines. These include:
- Accumulation of rust inside or outside pipelines
- Rotten egg odour
- Leaking pipes or joints that are coming apart
- Spike in energy bills
- Strange hissing sounds
- Malfunctioning gas-powered appliances
If you notice any of these indicators, promptly engaging professional assistance is essential. A faulty gas line can significantly contribute to poor air quality within your premises. You might be able to bring down the energy bills once you get the line fixed. Also, in case the joints come apart, the licensed plumber might be able to fix them with copper tubing instead of changing the entire line.
Our Opinion On The Best Pipe For Natural Gas
So what is the best pipe for gas? Every type of natural gas piping has pros and cons; you should select one based on your specific requirement.
Specific locales may impose distinct safety requirements that limit the materials used, often based on the national fuel gas code. Also, ensure you follow your state’s legislation and the local building requirements before installing a natural gas line. We suggest speaking to your local gas company or plumber for more information.
A professional plumber’s expertise is crucial in installing your natural gas pipe, with particular attention given to the pipe joints to prevent a gas leak. And if you have bought new gas appliances, a technician will be needed to connect them with the main gas line and gas meter. The team at Big Blue Plumbing are experienced and qualified gas fitters, ready to help you. So, if you need a new gas point installed or an appliance, give our team a call!
Ensure that you take care of these things, and you shouldn’t have any problems installing them. For those looking for info on installing a new gas heating system, you might want to check out our blog on “ What Size Water Heater Do I Need?”.
See you next time!
