If you’re adding a new gas-burning appliance to your home, such as a water heater, stove or fireplace, it will usually be necessary to run a new gas line to the unit. In this case, you may be wondering whether it’s possible to run the gas line yourself to save a bit of money. The answer to this is a resounding no, as running a gas line on your own is both illegal and extremely dangerous.
Permits and Inspections
A permit is required whenever a new gas line is installed, and this type of permit is not something you can get on your own. Instead, the permit will need to be applied for by a licensed, certified contractor. The contractor will also have to contact the local inspector to have the new gas line inspected once it’s installed. If you were to install a gas line without the proper permit and inspections, your home would no longer conform to building codes. This can result in you facing steep fines and potentially being unable to sell your home until everything is brought up to code and has passed inspection.
Certifications
Building codes also require that any gas line work must be done by a certified professional. Again, it is illegal to do any gas line work on your own or to hire anyone who doesn’t have the proper certifications. Hiring a certified professional is essential for ensuring that the new gas line is installed correctly and the work is done safely.
Safety Hazards
Installing a new gas line and tying it to the existing gas supply is complicated and can be extremely dangerous if not done correctly. If the gas isn’t bled out of the existing lines before tying the new line in, it creates a huge risk of explosion. An improperly installed gas line can also leak. As such, trying to do any gas line work on your own simply isn’t worth the risk.
At Fix-A-Leak, we specialize in gas line installation and can help if you need a new line run or any other work done on your home’s gas supply. We also offer a full range of other expert plumbing services for customers in Hauppauge and throughout Suffolk County. Contact us today if you have any questions or to schedule any gas line or plumbing service.
