What is it that goes behind your walls to put power in your gas stove? How does the fuel make its way from the street to the water heater? And are you sure of what to do should you detect an odd smell?
We at Star Plumbing & Mechanical have put together a guide to answer those and more. As a veteran-owned, licensed and insured operation out of Owensboro, KY, we are your go to plumbing team for all of Western Kentucky. Any questions on your gas lines, give us a ring at (270) 729-1961.
For the most part, people do not give their gas lines a second thought until they are in a bind. Yet there is some quiet work going on under your floors on a daily basis and a little knowledge of how it works can be useful. We will share a few facts that may come as a surprise.
A Gas Line’s Odor Is Not Natural
You would be hard pressed to find many who know this: the natural gas coming into your house has no odor to speak of. So what is that you are smelling when there is a leak?
It is mercaptan, a chemical the utility company puts in to impart the rotten egg scent we are used to. Nothing more than a safety precaution; absent it, a leak would pass you by. Put it down to them looking after you and your family. Should you ever put your nose to that in the home, get out and make a call for assistance.
The Make Up of Your Gas Lines
Lines are not all created equal. What you have in the way of piping will depend on the age of the home and the like. You may see any number of materials at work:
- Black iron for interior
- CSST or corrugated stainless steel tubing for its flexibility
- Copper where called for
- Polyethylene plastic laid underground
- Galvanized steel in an older place
A licensed plumber has the training and tools to put the right material in the right spot. It is not something to put to chance.
Yellow Means Underground
If you have some digging planned for the yard this spring, take note that buried gas lines are denoted with yellow. The locating services will put up flags and paint to mark the territory. It is a good reason to make a call before you break ground; you do not want to run into a line putting in a fence post or tree, it is costly and hazardous. A phone call to the local service will head off trouble.
More Appliances Run on Gas Than One Would Suppose
Most put a face on a furnace or a stove when they think of gas. In truth it is running more in your home than you realise.
There are your ovens and cooktops, but also clothes dryers, fireplaces with gas logs, outdoor grills, water heaters and the like. An improper install or a fitting left loose is asking for problems, so for a new appliance you are better off having a pro handle it.
Pilot Lights Are a Thing of the Past for Many
The standing pilot light of yesteryear that was always on is being left behind by newer appliances in favour of electronic ignition. The flame only comes when required and you will use less gas for it. An older unit with a constant light is no problem, just an indication of how the technology has evolved.
Then There Are the Leaks That Do Not Announce Themselves
You will not miss a big one with the tell tale smell of rotten eggs. Smaller ones are another matter, you may hear a hiss or a whiff of something near an appliance, or see the grass die over a subterranean line. When in doubt, call someone. With gas lines, caution is warranted.
Star Plumbing & Mechanical Is Here to Help
We trust you have a better understanding of your gas lines now. Our staff is available Monday to Friday from 7:30 till 4:30 for any plumbing or gas needs you might have. We cover Owensboro and the rest of Western Kentucky as well as southern Indiana and Illinois, including Henderson, Madisonville and Hopkinsville. Free estimates are provided. Contact us at (270) 729-1961.