Whether you need a new gas line for your heating system or BBQ - they are not something you want to do alone.
Installing new pipes can be quite a hassle, and you must purchase durable options and ensure they maintain good gas pressure.
Pipes carrying natural gas could be placed below the ground or above it. If you need to install it below the ground, that would involve a lot of digging. You might have to create holes, take permission, and then get the pipes in place.
You will not want to do it over again within a short period. You will need durable options for pipes with natural gas flowing through them. And more than anything, protect your main gas line from gas leaks and poor air quality. Here, we have written about the most durable options suited for natural gas.
So, grab a cup of coffee and dive in to learn about the different types of gas piping used for natural gas!
What Kind Of Gas Pipe Should I Use For Natural Gas?
You will find information about all the popular gas pipes carrying natural gas. Read on to learn all about them.
1. PVC Pipe
PVC pipes or plastic pipes will work well for natural gas lines and water supply. They are generally available in sizes of 10 feet and 20 feet and come in varying diameters. The size ranges from ½ inch to 6 inches to choose one depending upon the purpose.
If you wish to attach PVC pipes, you will need solvent cement, primer or a push-to-connect fitting. However, you must remember not to install PVC pipes where the sunlight streams directly. When exposed to hot water or direct sunlight, PVC can get damaged. If you use it for natural gas line, ensure it flows through a cool or dark area.
2. Black Pipe
A very durable option for carrying natural gas supply is a black pipe. These pipes are generally made of steel pipe and iron pipe. They are malleable, making them a perfect opportunity for homes. Natural and propane gas can both be transferred through black pipes.
Please remember that these pipes must be installed by professionals who know the job. They will generally come in lengths of 2 inches up to 10 feet and have a diameter of ¼ inch to 2 inches. Many people use a black iron pipe to transfer natural gas to the house from the outside.
3. CSST Pipe
CSST pipes or corrugated stainless steel tubing will be a great option if you plan to install new gas appliances in the house. They are corrugated, and you can easily bend them around the edges and corners. Hence, you will not require adding any new joints and fittings.
If you have to choose between CSST and steel pipes, we will ask you to choose the former as they are lightweight and easy to install. If you have some training, then you can do the job. Plus, CSST pipes can be used where a long pipe is needed.
Remember to check if your CSST corrugated stainless steel piping is certified by the manufacturers while purchasing.
4. Copper Pipe
People have used copper pipes for years to transfer hot and cold water. These tubes vary in length, usually between 2 to 10 inches. Each dimension of ½ to 1 inch ensures that water and gas flow easily.
The thinnest pipes will work well if you use them for natural gas inside the house. But the thicker ones are essential for gas service lines.
You will have to join smaller copper pipes to make a large pipeline. That can be done by brazing, soldering, push-to-connect fittings or a compression coupler. Doing this would allow the copper tubing to remain intact. It will last longer, making a copper line a very durable option.
5. Polyethylene Pipe
Next is a brilliant option to transfer gas through underground pipelines. Polyethylene pipes are very sturdy and can move water and gas. These provide long-term resistance, making them very environment-friendly. Hence, they are used for underground gas transportation as you cannot dig up pipelines often to check.
These pipelines work in places with bad weather conditions. They will not break or come apart quickly. You will not have to call for maintenance, often making it an excellent choice.
Further, a gas piping system and other fittings can be joined together with the help of solvent and primer. There will be some initial digging, and you will need to call professionals to do the job.
Installing New Gas Lines
As you can see, gas piping can be extremely dangerous if not handled by a professional. You want to ensure that your gas lines are corrosion-resistant and that safety is maintained throughout installation.
Please check with your local plumbers about the allowed materials in your area. There can be certain restrictions regarding the gas pipes we mentioned, and you would not want to do something illegal.
Also, it is best to seek professional help if you install new lines. A thorough check-up must be done to find the damage and return it with patched-up material to replace old lines.
With this, we are ready to wrap up this guide. Contact our team if you have any further questions or need assistance with gas lines in Perth. Our licensed plumber can assist you with your natural gas piping systems, ensuring it is safe and installed correctly! We can also help you install water heaters and connect with your preferred gas company!
Goodbye and take care!
