How to Extend Your Gas Hose
Most people rely on portable propane tanks when it comes time to fire up the barbecue. Unfortunately, it’s not the most efficient solution. Not only is it a lot of work to set up a portable propane tank, but it can also be an expensive endeavor. One way people bypass using portable gas tanks altogether is by extending their home’s gas hose.
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Doing so gives you a more convenient place to connect to your grill and can save you a bit on energy costs.
However, extending your home’s gas hose can be challenging, especially if you don’t know the process. Furthermore, some areas don’t allow you to extend the hose on your own. In that case, you would need to reach out to a professional contractor that specializes in heating and gas.
Continue reading below to learn how a professional would go about extending a home’s gas hose.
Step 1) Find Out Where to Access the Gas Line
When a contractor first visits your property, they will typically look for the best place to access the gas line.
If you plan to extend the hose for grilling, they’ll likely find a spot closest to your back patio or yard. They might also look for areas in the line that already have an elbow or t-fitting to add the extension easily.
Meanwhile, the installer will record measurements to know how long they need to make the extension and ensure that the job is done correctly. Many contractors use long steel pipes that they can cut into the right size for your specific hose. Some might need to take the measurements first and make the cuts in their warehouse.
Also, note that some states require a permit to adjust the gas line. In California, for example, a permit is necessary for any work on natural gas piping, and a representative from the local gas company must be the one to turn off the meter. Your best bet is to inquire with the state or county utility provider to ensure you don’t violate any codes.
Step 2) Install the Fitting
Once all the measurements and permits are out of the way, it’s time for the contractor to install the t-fitting. Before doing so, they will shut off your main gas line so they can install the fitting safely.
Some gas lines are easy to shut off, whereas others are difficult to find or access. If the contractor uses a black steel pipe that requires threaded fittings, they might need to take apart pieces of your gas hose to make them fit.
They might also install shutoff valves around the t-fitting to make it easier to conduct maintenance in the future. While this process can be lengthy, it’s necessary to avoid future complications.
Step 3) Extend the Gas Hose Outside
After the main t-fitting is in place, the contractor can run the gas hose through your property to the outside using a system of elbows and extension pipes. They will also likely need to create a hole in your wall to run the hose through. After making all the connections, they will install a gas valve where the pipe ends (also called the stub-out).
A suitable valve will make connecting and disconnecting your grill from the extended gas hose much more manageable. You could technically connect your grill to the extended hose, but many states prohibit this for safety reasons.
Step 4) Inspect and Adjust
Once everything is ready, the contractor will do a final inspection to ensure everything is working correctly.
If there are any leaks or issues with the newly extended gas hose, they will make the appropriate repairs. They will also consult with you to make sure you’re happy with the work.
Step 5) Connect the Grill
The final step is to connect your grill to the gas valve using an approved gas hose. The flexible hose connects the grill to the valve safely so that gas can move from the mainline to power the grill.
You should find a hose made from stainless steel or one coated with polymers to ensure it lasts as long as you need it.
Can I Extend a Gas Hose Myself?
While you might have the technical skills to extend your gas hose yourself, hiring a professional plumber is always a good idea. Between the safety issues, permits, and regulations, you’ll save yourself a headache by working with a pro.
You can always be there during the extensions to ensure everything goes to your standards. If you end up extending the hose on your own, it would be wise to have a plumber stop by to inspect your work before connecting your grill.
Conclusion
As you can see, extending your home’s gas hose doesn’t have to be a great big challenge. As long as you work with a reputable plumber, you should be able to extend your hose in no time. Remember, always consult with a professional if you plan on extending the hose yourself to avoid any danger or property damage.
Do you have a plumbing issue that needs help from an experienced contractor? Reach out to All Dry to see how we can help. We’ve worked with countless homeowners to ensure their homes and plumbing systems are up to speed, and we’d love to help you next.
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