EGas can be used for several different applications in your home. Hot water heaters, stoves, ranges, and even some dryers are a few appliances that could use gas. Home heating systems and fireplaces may also be fueled by gas. Many homeowners prefer gas over electric for reasons like:
- Energy bill savings
- Cleaner burning, eco-friendly
- More localized source of heat
- Very responsive to adjustments
Propane or Natural Gas
There are two options when it comes to getting gas—a propane tank or natural gas line (supplied by your city, or local utility). Typically, there are fees for getting started with natural gas, whereas the only costs for propane will be the installation, or gas conversion, and the cost of gas itself.
Related: Gas prices are going down!
Even with fees to get started with the city, natural gas is usually cheaper to use, saving money in the long run. Additional costs for using natural gas may be incurred if you’re converting or establishing a new gas supply since natural gas needs larger piping and burner orifices to run correctly.
Retrofitting an Existing Gas Supply
If you want to connect gas to a new appliance then having an existing gas supply will likely reduce costs. However, it depends on the location of the existing piping as well as the capacity of that piping to add another appliance. If the line wasn’t set up to handle another appliance then a certified gas fitter will need to locate the origin of the gas to your house and run the new piping from there. Extending a gas line even just a couple feet without being sure it’s set up for it can be ineffective and dangerous.
Establishing Your First Gas Supply
If your house doesn’t currently use any gas, or you’re building a new home, then you need to set everything up from scratch. If you prefer propane then you’ll set up the propane tank, run the appropriate piping to your home and fill the tank with gas. If you’d rather use natural gas, establish an account with your local natural gas provider, and get piping from the provider’s gas line to your home.
Cost Figures
To have a gas line professionally installed, expect to pay $15-20 per foot. This usually includes labor, materials, and testing. Extending a gas line by 15 feet is a much simpler task and be done for $200-300 whereas running a new gas line to a new appliance could easily run you $500-800 depending on the distance from the gas supply. More complex projects or areas with higher labor costs can jump above $1000.
Importance of Proper Gas Line Installation
Because gas leaks can be very dangerous and hard to detect, it’s important to have your gas supply established or improved by certified professionals. In Virginia, it’s a law that the installer be certified to handle gas piping.
If you need to install a new gas line, gas appliance, or you require gas repair service, contact Robinson’s Plumbing today. As always, gas line services include our No Surprises Pricing Guarantee!
Robinson’s Plumbing Service is a full-service plumber and gas fitting service serving Charlottesville, and Richmond, VA.