If you are like many homeowners, you may find that having a natural gas line in your garage can come in handy. There are several reasons why this may be the case. For example, perhaps you like to work on cars and need a space to do, which is heated in the winter. Or maybe you use your garage as a workshop and would like to have easy access to power tools that run on natural gas. Whatever your reason, learning how to run natural gas line from house to garage is a project that you can complete yourself with a little bit of know-how.
In this blog post, we will walk you through the process of running a natural gas line from your house to your garage. We will provide tips on where to start, measuring the distance, what type of materials you will need, and how to install the piping. You should have all the information you need to start this project by the end of this post.
Summary: Running a natural gas line from your house to your garage is something that should be done with great care and attention to detail. Before beginning any work, it is important to check local regulations for running gas lines in your area. This may involve obtaining permits or having the work inspected.
Why Should You Run a Natural Gas Line from The House to The Garage?
There are many reasons to run a natural gas line from the house to the garage. Natural gas is a clean and efficient fuel, and it can be used for a variety of purposes. For example, natural gas can power furnaces, water heaters, and other appliances in the garage. It can also power vehicles, making them more environmentally friendly.
Additionally, natural gas is usually less expensive than other fuels, making it a cost-effective choice for homeowners. Running a natural gas line from the house to the garage is an investment that will pay off in both the short and long run.
How to Run Natural Gas Line from House to Garage Step by Step Guide
Step 1: Obtain Necessary Permits and Inspections
Before starting any work, check with your local building department to determine what permits and inspections are required for running a natural gas line from your house to your garage. Each jurisdiction has its own rules and regulations, so it’s essential to ensure that your project complies with local codes and guidelines.
Step 2: Consult a Licensed Professional
Running a natural gas line requires specialized knowledge and skills, so consult with a licensed professional to ensure that your project is completed safely and correctly. A licensed plumber or HVAC contractor can help you design the gas line layout, choose the appropriate materials, and ensure that your project meets all applicable codes and regulations.
Step 3: Determine the Gas Line Size and Layout
Work with the licensed professional to determine the size and layout of the natural gas line. This will depend on factors such as the distance between your house and garage, the total BTU (British Thermal Units) requirements of the appliances in your garage, and the size of the existing gas line in your home. A proper gas line design will ensure that there is sufficient gas pressure and flow to meet the needs of your garage appliances.
Step 4: Choose the Right Materials
Select the appropriate materials for your natural gas line based on local codes, the distance between your house and garage, and the specific needs of your project. Common materials used for underground gas lines include polyethylene (PE) pipe, coated steel pipe, and corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST). Work with your licensed professional to determine the best material for your situation.
Step 5: Excavate the Trench
Dig a trench between your house and garage that is deep enough to meet local codes and accommodate the gas line. This typically ranges from 12 to 24 inches, depending on local regulations and the type of material used for the gas line. Make sure to call your local utility company’s “Call Before You Dig” hotline to have underground utilities marked before you start digging.
Step 6: Install the Gas Line
With the help of your licensed professional, lay the gas line in the trench, ensuring that it is straight and free of kinks or sharp bends. If you are using PE pipe or coated steel pipe, it’s crucial to protect the pipe from damage during installation. Use sand or fine soil to cushion the pipe, and avoid using rocks or other sharp materials that could puncture the pipe.
Step 7: Connect the Gas Line to the House and Garage
Once the gas line is in place, your licensed professional will need to make the connections to your house and garage. This typically involves tapping into the existing gas line at your house and installing a new gas line connection in your garage. The connection points should include shut-off valves, which are essential for safety and maintenance purposes.
Step 8: Pressure Test the Gas Line
Before burying the gas line, conduct a pressure test to ensure that there are no leaks or defects in the line. Your licensed professional will pressurize the gas line using air or an inert gas, such as nitrogen, and then monitor the pressure for a specified period, usually at least 15 minutes. If the pressure remains steady, it’s a good indication that the gas line is leak-free.
Step 9: Bury the Gas Line
Once the pressure test is complete and any necessary repairs have been made, backfill the trench, taking care to avoid damaging the gas line. Compact the soil as you fill the trench, ensuring that there are no voids or air pockets that could cause the gas line to shift or settle over time.
Step 10: Install Gas Appliances and Piping in the Garage
With the gas line in place, your licensed professional can install the necessary appliances and piping in your garage. This may include gas heaters, water heaters, or other gas-powered equipment. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and local codes for proper installation and venting of these appliances.
Step 11: Perform Final Inspections
After the gas appliances and piping have been installed in the garage, arrange for any necessary final inspections by your local building department or gas utility company. This may include a pressure test of the entire gas system and a visual inspection of the appliances and connections to ensure that everything is installed safely and in compliance with local codes.
Step 12: Turn on the Gas Supply
Once all inspections have been completed and any necessary repairs or adjustments have been made, your licensed professional can turn on the gas supply to your garage. This typically involves opening the shut-off valves at the house and garage connections and lighting any pilot lights on your gas appliances.
Step 13: Monitor for Leaks and Performance Issues
After your natural gas line has been installed and activated, be sure to monitor your garage for any signs of gas leaks or performance issues. Keep an eye out for the smell of natural gas, which is often described as a rotten egg or sulfur odor. If you suspect a gas leak, shut off the gas supply immediately and contact your gas utility company or a licensed professional for assistance.
Step 14: Maintain Your Gas Line and Appliances
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the safe and efficient operation of your natural gas line and appliances. Schedule annual inspections by a licensed professional to check for leaks, corrosion, or other issues that could affect the performance and safety of your gas system. In addition, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for maintaining your gas appliances, such as cleaning filters, checking venting systems, and replacing worn or damaged parts.
By following these steps and working with a licensed professional, you can safely and effectively run a natural gas line from your house to your garage. This will provide a convenient and efficient energy source for your garage appliances, helping you create a comfortable and functional space that meets your needs. Always adhere to local codes and regulations, and consult with professionals to ensure the safety and success of your project.
How Do I Run a Gas Line to My Garage Heater?
If you’re looking to add a garage heater to your home, you’ll need to run a gas line to the unit. This can seem like a daunting task, but it’s not too difficult with a little bit of planning and effort. Here’s a step-by-step guide to running a gas line to your garage heater:
1. The first step is to determine where the gas line will run from. You’ll need to have access to a natural gas source, typically located near the home’s main Gas Meter. Once you’ve determined the location of the gas line, you’ll need to measure the distance from the meter to the garage heater.
2. Next, you’ll need to purchase the necessary materials for running the gas line. This includes a length of black pipe, fittings, and a flexible connector hose. Make sure that you get all of the right sizes and lengths of materials so that everything will fit together properly.
3. Once you have all of your materials, it’s time to start running the gas line. Begin by attaching the black pipe to the Gas Meter using the provided fittings. Then, run the pipe along its desired route towards the garage heater. Be sure to leave enough slack in the line to be easily connected to the heater.
4. When you reach the garage, cut the black pipe to the appropriate length using a hacksaw. Then, use the fittings to attach the flexible connector hose to the end of the pipe.
5. Finally, connect the other end of the flexible connector hose to the inlet of the garage heater. Once everything is properly connected, please turn on the gas and test the unit to ensure it’s working correctly.
With a little bit of planning and effort, you can easily run a gas line to your garage heater. Keep reading for more information about how to run natural gas line from house to garage.
What Size Pipe Do I Need for Natural Gas?
The size of pipe you need for a natural gas line will depend on the gas you plan to use. To calculate the pipe size you need, you’ll need to know the flow rate of the appliance and the pressure of the gas coming into your home. You can find this information in your appliance’s manual or on the manufacturer’s website.
The most common types of gas appliances are stoves, dryers, and water heaters. For these appliances, you’ll need a 1/2-inch or 3/4-inch pipe. If you have a high-demand appliance like a furnace, you’ll need a 1-inch pipe.
Frequently Asked Question
What Is the Best Pipe for Gas Line?
If you are running a natural gas line from your house to your garage, you will need to use a black iron pipe. This type of pipe is durable and can withstand the pressure of a gas line.
Can I Run Natural Gas Line Myself?
Yes, you can run a natural gas line yourself, but it is not a job for the faint of heart. It requires drilling through concrete and metal and working with hazardous materials. If you are uncomfortable with any of these tasks, it is best to hire a professional.
Can Plastic Gas Line Be Exposed?
The answer to this question is it depends. Most gas lines are either black or red and are made of plastic. If your gas line is not the typical black or red plastic, it may be made of combustible material and, therefore, should not be exposed.
If you are unsure whether or not your gas line is made of combustible material, it is always best to consult with a professional before proceeding.
Can a Gas Pipe Be Run Externally?
Yes, it is possible to run a gas pipe externally. This can be done by excavating a trench in your yard and running the pipe underground. You will also need to have a gas meter installed at your home.
Can I Use Pex for Gas Line?
Yes, you can use Pex for a gas line, but be sure to check with your local building codes to ensure that it is permissible in your area. You will also need to use a gas-rated Pex tubing, as standard Pex tubing is not designed for carrying gas.
Conclusion
If you are thinking of converting your garage into a workshop, home office, or just more living space, running a natural gas line may be best. By following these simple steps, you can have a new natural gas line up and running in no time! Thanks for reading our post about how to run natural gas line from house to garage.
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