What this covers
A gas line brings natural gas or propane from the meter or tank to a range, furnace, water heater, dryer, fireplace or outdoor grill. Only a licensed company should run or alter one, and in nearly every area the work requires a permit and an inspection. The plumber sizes the line by total load and run length so every appliance gets full pressure, runs black iron pipe or flexible stainless tubing along a protected route, installs a shutoff valve and approved connector at each appliance, and bonds the system where the code requires it. Before gas is introduced, the run is pressure-tested with air and held for the inspector. Careful work means supported pipe and every joint checked once the gas is on.
When to call
- A new gas range, dryer, fireplace or outdoor kitchen where there is no gas line today.
- A furnace or water heater replacement that needs a larger or relocated line.
- A tankless water heater, which usually needs more gas than the existing line can carry.
- Old or corroded piping flagged during a sale or an appliance installation.
What to expect
- Plan and sizeThe company totals the appliance loads, measures the run and sizes the pipe.
- PermitWhere the local code requires it, the company pulls the permit and schedules the inspection.
- Run and testPipe is run and supported, the system isolated and pressure-tested with air, and the test held for inspection.
- ConnectAppliances are connected with shutoffs and approved connectors, and every joint is leak-checked.
Get a certified company
Look up a certified company by ZIP code. Every company's license, insurance and trades are verified before it is listed, and placement is never paid.
Questions people ask
What is a pressure test?
The new piping is filled with air to a set pressure, with the gas supply isolated, and a gauge is watched for a required time. A steady reading shows the joints are tight. The inspector usually checks the gauge in person.
Black iron or flexible stainless tubing?
Both are approved in most areas. Black iron is rigid and traditional; flexible stainless tubing runs faster through framing and needs bonding to the electrical ground. The plumber chooses by route, code and load.
Can an outdoor grill or fire feature be piped?
Yes. A dedicated line with its own shutoff is run to the patio, buried or sleeved where required, and the appliance connected with an approved outdoor connector.
Related: Tankless water heaters · Furnace installation · Outdoor kitchens · All plumbing
This page describes what the service involves. The company you hire sets the scope, the schedule and the price, and your contract is with that company. We verify credentials and collect reviews from real jobs. We do not guarantee any company's workmanship. Safety steps are general guidance. When in doubt, leave the home and call 911.