When the decision is made to equip the home with natural gas for fuel, there will need to be piping installed, especially if the main source of power previously was electricity. The task may not be the best if this is a first-time do-it-yourself project, but it is certainly impossible. If you want to try to take it on instead of calling in the professionals, here are some tips on how to make sure the pipe installation goes according to plan.
- Most residential projects require pipe that is 1/2 inch to 1 1/2 inch in diameter. It is usually black in color to differentiate it from other pipes that may be in the house. Be sure to purchase a pipe that is about 6 to 12 inches longer than you actually need to account for any pipe overlap you may encounter.
- The most important thing to do in the entire project is to turn off the gas supply to the house. Failure to do so has serious consequences, such as huge explosions and death. The gas can be verified that it is switched off when the gas meter is no longer moving.
- Extend the gas line to the appliances by using pipe fittings. Specialized pipe tape may be used to cover the fittings so that gas leaks do not occur. This is very important as all gas valves need to be sealed before the gas supply leading to the house is turned back on.
- Flexible pipe can also be used to connect the gas line to the appliances. It just needs to be threaded on. This is an easy task to do.
As you can see, natural gas piping installation is not impossible but if you are not comfortable performing the installation, it is best left to the professionals.