Professional Gas Line Installation

Do you need a new gas line installed? Find out why professional installation is vital and how to locate a reliable gas line contractor in your area.

There are many reasons you may need to have a new gas line installed for your home. One possibility is the home itself is newly constructed. You may need gas lines to complete that construction process. Another reason to have a new gas line installed is the addition of new gas appliances in the home, such as replacing an electric stove with a gas stove. You may also find yourself in need of a new gas line installation due to damage done to an existing gas line or in an effort to keep an older gas line from becoming a hazard. 

Regardless of your reason, you must choose to either install a new gas line yourself or hire a professional. If your budget is tight and you already have some DIY home repair experience, the former option may sound attractive. However, it is a bad choice. The following information can help you understand why professional installation is always necessary and how to hire a contractor for the job.

Why is Professional Gas Line Installation Important?

If you have already taken on several DIY projects in your home, you may think gas line installation is also a DIY project. However, gas is a substance that can cause several possible hazards. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports approximately 4,200 home and structure fires associated with natural gas occur each year. Gas leaks in homes occur even more frequently. Those gas leaks can cause illness and, in some cases, deaths. To minimize risks and hazards in your home during gas line installation and after, professional assistance is required.

Another reason to hire professionals to install a gas line is gas is not always the only service involved in the process. For example, switching from an electric stove to a gas stove in your kitchen also requires the services of a professional electrician. If you do not have a professional level of electrical circuit knowledge, you may not switch the appliances properly. That could cause immediate or long-term consequences, such as gas fume leakage or ignition.

What Can Go Wrong if a Gas Line is Installed Incorrectly?

Incorrect gas line installation can have several consequences. The first is financial. When your gas line is not installed properly, gas may leak out. That leaking gas is still calculated as part of your gas usage for the month. Therefore, the bill your gas company sends may reflect a much higher cost than the cost for the gas you actually use in your home. There are also potential risks to the physical health of you, your family members, and your pets. For example, you may experience dizziness, headaches, or nausea. Those symptoms may eventually lead to death if untreated.

Another possible consequence of incorrect gas line installation is major property damage. Gas is extremely flammable. A single spark or open flame, such as a candle, can cause it to ignite. It is common for entire homes, sheds, or garages to explode when that occurs. The resulting blast can also damage the homes or properties of surrounding neighbors.

What is a Gas Line Contractor?

If you want to have a gas line professionally installed, you need to find a contractor to do the work. You may think a professional gas line contractor is a stand-alone position, but it usually is not. Instead, a gas line contractor in most U.S. states is typically a certified plumber who is also certified in gas line installation. You must select a plumber who is licensed, bonded, and insured in your state. Also, look for a plumber with experience and references.

What Are Some Websites Where You Can Find Professional Gas Line Contractors? 

There are many ways to find professional gas line contractors. For example, you may already have an existing plumber you trust. If so, ask if that plumber is also certified in gas line installation. If not, your plumber may have associations with other professionals in the area with such certifications and be able to recommend one to you. Alternatively, there are many websites you can use to find professional plumbers. Here are some top options:

• Angi was formerly called Angie's List. It has been in business for over 25 years. The company provides many tools and resources users can use to find local professionals, as well as determine which professionals fit their specific needs.

• Thumbtack connects users with various types of home services, including plumbers with gas line installation experience. The company was founded in 2008. It has since become a top resource for homeowners seeking cost estimates and professional contractors for various construction and remodeling jobs.

• Houzz is a popular home design website. It provides tools to help users with remodeling projects, including a means of ordering products for home decorating. Its website also offers a search feature for locating contractors to perform various functions, such as gas line installations.

• Porch allows professionals to bid on posted projects. Homeowners enter various images and details relating to their projects. Then they interview bidders. Porch also provides easy ways to check references and licensing details for each bidder.

• HomeAdvisor is a division of Angi. The HomeAdvisor website is specifically designed to help homeowners start projects and hire professionals. It includes cost estimation guidelines and tips. A search tool is also provided to help users locate local professionals. 

How Much Does Professional Gas Line Installation Cost?

Professional gas line installation costs vary widely throughout the United States. The average cost is $1,360. However, many factors affect that price, including the size and scope of the project. Prices for installing gas lines for different appliances vary. Permits required, types of materials used, and the need to remove existing gas lines can all impact the cost. A small project might cost as little as approximately $100. The only way to know is to get estimates from local professionals. When doing so, remember they are only estimates. Often, a gas line installation project uncovers other issues you must address, such as rewiring electrical lines. Such surprises add to the total you must pay. Make sure your budget includes funds for those possible added expenses.