Have you ever wondered to yourself, “What type of pipe is used for gas lines?” You’ve come to the right place if you’re looking for answers! Natural gas is essential in powering your home’s cooking, heating, and cleaning appliances, so it’s essential to know how your house’s gas lines work. Read on to learn more about gas lines, what they’re made of, and how to protect yours!
“What Type of Pipe is Used for Gas Lines?” Explained
As it turns out, there are a variety of pipes that can be used for home gas lines. From steel to copper, brass to plastic, gas line pipes can take various forms. Let’s learn about some of the best gas line options in more detail.
Black Steel
Black steel, also known as “Schedule 40” pipe, is the most common type of gas piping material. It is easy to see why, given it features a host of advantages that make it ideal for the job:
- Incredible Durability: Black steel pipe is very durable and can stand up to higher pressures than many other kinds of pipes. This means that it will last your home for a long time and be less prone to wear and tear.
- Budget-Friendly: Black steel isn’t costly, meaning high-quality piping doesn’t have to break the bank. It’s an excellent choice for economically-savvy homeowners who need gas line piping replaced.
- Protected against Corrosion: An essential aspect of pipes used for gas line plumbing is that they must be corrosion resistant, given that natural gas is a highly corrosive substance. To combat this, black steel is dipped in a coating that protects it from corrosion, making it hardy enough for gas lines.
All of these strengths make black steel a classic and reliable choice for handling natural gas.
Polyethylene (PE)
Although black steel remains quite popular, a new contender is rising to the gas line scene: polyethylene (PE) pipe, which is made of plastic. Although it is not as traditional as steel, PE pipe is also highly suited to gas lines. Find out more about its strengths below:
- Long-Lasting: One of PE’s main strengths is how well it holds up over time. The material has a low coefficient of friction while maintaining high impact resistance, making it incredibly durable. This means you won’t have to worry about replacing it for years to come.
- Unmatched Versatility: PE pipes are highly flexible, as well as lightweight. This means they are straightforward to install and can be used for various plumbing needs.
- Corrosion Resistant: Much like black steel, PE pipes are protected by corrosion-resistant coating, ensuring they stay strong against the corrosive power of natural gas.
- Prevents Bacteria Growth: PE stands apart from other pipe materials due to its resistance against microbiological attacks. PE is impenetrable to microorganisms, which can clog or cause corrosion in different pipes. Choosing polyethylene piping can protect your gas lines from bacteria.
It is for these reasons that PE is another superior option for gas lines. Indeed, durability and resistance to corrosion truly separate strong gas line pipes from weak ones.
More Gas Line Considerations
Now that you know more about what type of pipe is used for gas lines, let’s delve into some additional considerations regarding repairing and replacing gas line piping. Keep reading to explore some more questions you may have about your home’s gas lines.
Are there any pipe materials I shouldn’t use for gas lines?
As it turns out, yes, there are. Although black steel and PE are excellent choices for gas line pipes, not all materials are equally suited to the task. Copper is one material to be particularly wary of. Even though it is incredibly common for piping in some areas, it is expressly prohibited in others. As such, it is generally not recommended to install a copper pipe new for your gas line. If you are considering it, be sure to check your local piping regulations first.
How can I ensure my gas line is always in working order?
Choosing suitable materials is imperative to maintaining a long-lasting gas line, but even the sturdiest materials aren’t invincible. It is for that reason that you should complete a gas line inspection at least once a year. This ensures that any leaks are identified before growing too severe. After all, natural gas leaks can prove to be deadly serious; in some cases, they lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
Are gas line inspections ever needed more than once per year?
In most cases, gas line inspections only need to take place once per year. The exception is if you or a loved one suspects that a gas leak has already occurred.
In order to ensure you catch any potential leaks early, be on the lookout for the following signs:
- Strange odors in the house, particularly that of rotten eggs
- Hissing or whistling in pipes
- Corrosion or rust appearing on pipes
- Decreased appliance efficiency
- Dying houseplants
- Higher utility bills than usual
If one or more of these signs becomes prevalent in your home, then open your windows and doors, evacuate the house, and contact your gas company and/or emergency services. They will ensure that your house is taken care of and made safe.
Hire Goodbee Plumbing for Your Gas Line’s Needs
Now that you know all about what type of pipe is used for gas lines, it’s time to take action to maintain your gas line so that it lasts for years! In order to keep you and your family safe, hire Goodbee to conduct your annual gas line inspections, pipe repairs, replacements, and more. Our professionals handle a variety of plumbing needs, and we pride ourselves on helpful, friendly service based out of Louisiana. As a family-owned business, we know how important maintaining your plumbing is to keeping your loved ones safe.
Want to learn even more about us and our services? Check out our blog for answers to other common plumbing questions, and get in touch with our team by calling 985-893-1883. We look forward to hearing from you soon!