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Back in February 2021, Texas experienced a huge winter storm that caused a blackout leaving many in darkness for days. While many complain and stay inconvenienced by the blackout, those with generators are less worried.
As a result, they already have their generators installed and it’s running smoothly providing the necessary electricity they need. However, while it’s important to have a generator to prevent such things like that as a huge winter storm that causes blackouts in Texas from happening, installing a generator isn’t as simple as plugging it in and flipping a switch.
One of the crucial and dangerous aspects of generator installation is the gas line. A properly installed gas line is important for the safety and efficiency of your generator as well as your family and house. This is because any wrong aspect might result in a huge calamity.
Hence, you will need to learn the proper way of installing generator gas lines. In this article, we will be sharing with you some tips that can help you to properly install your generator gas line.
Why Is Gas Line Necessary For Generators?
Gas lines are necessary for generators because they run on fuel. It ensures a consistent and constant supply of fuel piped directly to the location of the generator.
As a result, a gas line helps to eliminate the need for generator users to constantly refill their generator with fuel, or makes them worried about fuel finishing at any time. Additionally, gas line installation has a lot of reasons for generator owners such as reducing the stress of constantly checking the storage tank of their generator.
However, when it comes to the installation of gas lines for generators, it’s best if you leave the job to professionals. And as said earlier a little mistake can cause serious consequences for your home and family if you don’t fix the line properly.
And, with a professional gas line installation company that has the full knowledge and experience to properly install the gas line for your generator, there are higher chances for you to ensure that it’s safe and compliant with local building codes than doing it yourself.
Steps Involved in Generator Gas Lines Installation
When it comes to the proper installation of a gas line for your generator, there are various steps involved, which in this part of the article we’ll be looking at.
With that in mind, here are some of the steps involved in the proper installation of a generator gas line.
Step 1: Obtain the necessary permits.
The first step you need to take to properly install your generator gas line is for you to obtain all necessary permits from your local building department. The permits will ensure that your gas line installation complies with the local building codes, and also that it meets all the safety standards to avoid issues in the future.
Step 2: Choose the correct gas line materials.
Secondly the type of gas line materials you use matters a lot. There are several different types of gas line materials you can choose from, ranging from copper to steel to plastic materials. Each material has its benefits and drawbacks, which means you must be wise in your decision when choosing or it will be best if you contact someone with more experience about these materials to help.
And, copper gas lines are durable and resistant to corrosion, but the thing is that they are more expensive than others. Steel gas lines are also durable, but they may be prone to corrosion if properly coated or maintained. And lastly, the plastic gas lines are less expensive and more flexible than others, but the bad news is that they may not be as durable as the rest. So, the choice is yours to make.
Step 3: Install and test the gas line.
Lastly, once you’ve obtained the necessary permits you need and have chosen the right gas line material, it’s now the time for you to install a test of the gas line.
Although for the process, it will be best if you contact a professional, if you can’t find one, you can try to do it yourself by digging a trench to lay the gas line, attaching the gas line to the generator, and testing it to ensure its functioning properly.
However, in most cases, it doesn’t necessitate you to dig down some trenches, you can just fix it naturally. In addition, when installing the gas line, it’s essential you follow due process by wearing protective gear, following proper excavation procedures, and properly securing the gas line to prevent accidents.
So, after the gas line has been installed, you must test it to ensure that it is functioning properly. This may involve conducting a pressure test to ensure that the gas line can withstand the pressure it will be subjected to when the generator is in use.
In addition, for a practical guide, you can watch this video from Bryan Hansen on youtube explaining how he did his generator gas line installation.
Tips for a Successful Generator Gas Line Installation
So, after going through the steps involved in a successful generator gas line installation, here are a few tips you need to heed whenever you are starting to install the gas line.
Tip 1: Hire a professional gas line installation company.
As mentioned earlier, installing a gas line for a generator is a job best left to the professionals, and you shouldn’t do it yourself if you know you aren’t experienced with the whole process of installing a generator gas line.
Hiring a professional gas line installation company with the knowledge, experience, and equipment to properly install the gas line, will ensure that the gas line is installed more safely and is in compliance with local building codes.
Tip 2: Follow all safety guidelines.
When installing a gas line for a generator, you must follow all safety guidelines and procedures to ensure the safety of yourself and those around you. This includes wearing protective gear, following proper excavation procedures and properly securing the gas line to prevent accidents.
Tip 3. Maintain the gas line regularly.
Lastly, you ensure you maintain the gas line regularly. The proper maintenance of the gas line is essential to ensure the safety and efficiency of your generator. This may include checking the gas line for any leaks or damage, and replacing any worn or damaged parts as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about generator gas line installation, along with their answers:
How much does it cost to install a gas line for a generator?
The cost of installing a gas line for a generator will depend on several factors, including the length of the gas line, the type of gas line materials used, and the complexity of the installation. On average, you can expect to pay around $150 to $2,000 for a gas line installation for a generator.
Can I install a gas line for a generator myself?
It is not recommended to attempt to install a gas line for a generator yourself. Gas lines can be dangerous to work with, and even a small mistake from it could have serious consequences.
How long does it take to install a gas line for a generator?
The length of time it takes to install a gas line for a generator will depend on the length of the gas line and the complexity of the installation. On average, you can expect the installation process to take several days.\
Conclusion
Installing a gas line for a generator is a crucial step in ensuring the safety and efficiency of your generator. By following the steps outlined above and hiring a professional gas line installation company, you can ensure that your gas line is properly installed and ready to provide a reliable source of fuel for your generator. With a properly installed gas line, you can have peace of mind knowing that your generator is ready to provide power when you need it most.
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