If you have a gas appliance, like a stove, water heater, or dryer, then you also have a gas line that supplies the appliance with fuel. And if you look behind the appliance, you will see either a traditional gas line or a flexible gas line. An older home might have a traditional gas line made from black iron pipe. This was the norm for residential gas lines prior to the late 1980s. If your home has the older line, you might have an interest in upgrading to the more modern flexible gas line.
What Is a Flexible Gas Line
A flexible gas line is a tube that provides natural gas or propane to gas appliances. You’ll find this line behind stoves, water heaters, and other appliances that need gas for fuel. Unlike a traditional gas line that’s made of steel or iron, a flexible gas line is made of stainless steel or coated metal that you can bend.
Because a flexible gas line is easy to twist and turn, it can fit into tight spaces and around corners. This gives it an advantage over a traditional gas line that’s made of rigid pipe. Another advantage of a flexible gas line is that it has fewer connections and joints. This is beneficial because it reduces the chances of a gas leak that can occur when you have connections and joints.
Flexible Gas Line Construction
A flexible gas line is made from flexible copper tubing or corrugated stainless steel tubing. But in most cases, you’ll find that corrugated stainless steel tubing is the material of choice. To protect the line from damage and corrosion, it will have a black or yellow plastic coating for protection.
Reach of a Flexible Gas Line
How far you can run a flexible gas line depends on a few things. You’ll want to consider things such as the appliance the line is for and local building codes for your area.
Here in San Jose, CA where Plumbtree Plumbing & Rooter is located, building codes specify that you can run a flexible gas line for up to a length of 6 feet when connecting to your home’s main gas supply line. This specification is based on the International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC). But, you should check the codes for your area before proceeding with a flexible gas line installation. That will ensure that you’re in compliance with your area, and have safe and proper gas flow.
California Codes and Regulations
Plumbtree Plumbing & Rooter makes sure to always comply with California’s codes and regulations concerning flexible gas lines. The California Plumbing Code regulates the use of flexible gas lines in homes and other buildings. For example, the code specifies the length, size, and other requirements for flexible gas lines.
California specifies that a certified technician must install the gas line in accordance with the manufacturers guidelines. So, unless you’re certified to do this type of work, it’s not a do-it-yourself job. The corrugated stainless steel tubing must also get bonded to your home’s electrical grounding system. This reduces the risk that can occur because of lightning strikes or other electrical problems.
Flexible Gas Lines and Safety
Every flexible gas line in California must have an accessible shutoff valve. It belongs in the fuel supply piping outside of the gas appliance and ahead of the union connection. The union connection is a fitting in the gas line that makes it possible to disconnect two sections of a pipe without moving or turning the actual pipes. This makes it easy to perform repairs and maintenance. You must make sure the shutoff valve is in the same room with the gas appliance and no more than 6 feet away from the appliance.
To learn more about California codes and regulations concerning flexible gas lines, refer to the newest version of the California Plumbing Code. You also might want to contact local building authorities, as codes might change before they’re updated in the California Plumbing Code.
Floors, Walls, and Ceilings
A flexible gas line in California has special requirements when it comes to floors, walls, and ceilings. Your installer can route the line through walls, floors, and ceilings without cutting a large opening or needing a complicated setup. But, and this is very important, the line must have the proper sleeving and protection in order to stay in compliance with California codes and regulations. Never run a flexible gas line through a floor, wall, or ceiling in California unless the line has protection.
In California, if you want to run a flexible gas line through a floor, wall, or ceiling you must protect the line with a rigid metal pipe sleeve. Make sure the sleeve is at least a half-inch larger in diameter than the flexible gas line. And the gap between the line and the sleeve should have a fire resistant sealant.
Benefits of a Flexible Gas Line
There are some good reasons for choosing a flexible gas line instead of a traditional rigid pipe. Easy installation is possibly the biggest benefit. Since the line is flexible, it needs fewer connections and fittings than a traditional pipe. That means it’s easier and quicker to install.
Another great benefit is that a flexible line is less likely to develop a gas leak. A traditional pipe generally needs several joints and fittings in order to work correctly. Each joint or fitting is capable of developing a leak, but this isn’t an issue with a flexible line. Also, the flexible line can move and bend, which makes it a safer option for earthquake prone areas like California.
Additionally, flexible gas lines are a preferred choice for homeowners who value convenience. Their lightweight design makes them easier to handle during installation, and they adapt seamlessly to tight spaces. This adaptability not only saves time but also reduces labor costs, making flexible gas lines a cost-effective option for modern homes.
Replacing a Flexible Gas Line
A flexible gas line is durable, but it won’t last forever. The lifespan of the line depends on several things. For example, if it shows signs of corrosion, wear and tear, or cracks, then it’s time to get a replacement. If you smell gas and suspect there’s a leak in the line that’s a warning sign that it’s time for a replacement. Other things that can lower the lifespan of a flexible line include improper installation or damage.
Get in Touch With Plumbtree Plumbing & Rooter Today
Flexible gas lines provide a safe and easy way to get fuel to your gas appliances. Plumbtree Plumbing & Rooter is dedicated to providing professional plumbing services for San Jose residents. One of our licensed plumbers can install your flexible gas line safely and in a timely manner. You can get also other services for your household, including drain repair, drain cleaning, sewer services, and water services — we do it all. We’re your neighborhood plumbing experts, available 24/7 to help should an emergency arise. For more information, contact us today.
