1. Check the integrity of the gas line.

I If you have a propane tank directly attached to the gas appliance, it is a good idea to check that the line is still intact after a winter without use. You should also check the supply line of a natural gas grill. Use the steps below to confirm that the line is not leaking.

2. Leave plenty of space around the grill.

The appliance should be at least 10 feet from the nearest structure. Stay clear of tree branches and shrubs, too.

3. Store propane grills and propane tanks in open areas.

It is dangerous and illegal to store or use propane on a balcony, terrace, or roof. Use only in a well ventilated outdoor area.

4. Plan an emergency extinguishing method.

Never attempt to put out a grease fire with water, as this will cause the flames to flare up. Have a working fire extinguisher on hand whenever flames are to be used. If the fire involves or is near the tank, DO NOT attempt to extinguish it. Evacuate the area and call the fire department.

The connection lines from small 20 pound propane storage tanks to gas grills are the primary spot for gas leaks and fires. To check for leaks, first prepare a small amount of soapy water. With the tank valve in the full off position, rub the soapy water on all parts of the storage tank and the gas line. Turn the tank valve on and observe for several minutes. If gas is leaking, bubbles will form at the spot of the leak. It is also a good habit to check the natural gas supply line running to an outdoor grill or fire pit.

With a few simple safety precautions, this barbeque season can be focused on fun and good company. If you have questions about propane gas safety, contact a licensed gas piping contractor or the local fire department.

In Arizona, you must have a permit for any gas line work and allow the work to be inspected.  You should obtain a permit from the local board or authority.  The office or representative will explain the necessary procedures, including the length of time the permit covers, the inspections that are necessary, and the “Green Sticker” requirement for a legally compliant installation.

DIY installation may invalidate your appliance warrantee.  Most manufacturers will not warrant an appliance unless it was installed by a licensed contractor in good standing with the local regulatory board.  The reason for this is simple.  The expectation is that an appliance will have a longer life without need of repair or replacement if all necessary details were professionally reviewed, such as proper gas line pressure, thorough check for joint leaks, and adequate ventilation.  The manufacturer’s assumption is that a do-it-yourselfer may not be familiar with the needed standards.

DIY installation may invalidate your home owner’s insurance.  This standard can vary by insurance carrier and by state, and many homeowners are unaware of the possibility.  But it is certainly a serious concern and worth the phone call to your agent or insurance company.  In the event of an accident – even if not related to the DIY installation – it would be devastating to discover that your insurance would not pay for repairs.  Protecting your family and your property is a priority for you, and this important consideration should not be overlooked.

DIY gas line installation can be a daunting task.  If it is your first plumbing or piping project, you should give appropriate thought to the advisability of your choice as well as to the safety measures needed.  Even if you are an experienced do-it-yourselfer, be sure to act on these recommendations before you begin the project.  For the safest possible outcome, contact a licensed and qualified gas piping contractor.

The Arizona Registrar of Contractors (AROC) explains the problem this way:  “Property owners often look for the lowest price when looking to build or remodel a home.  Since most unlicensed contractors are not bonded or insured and do not pay into the residential contractors’ recovery fund or pay any unemployment compensation for their workers, they can often under bid the licensed professional.  This bottom line may at first be attractive to the property owner, as a way to lower costs and save money.  Most of the time, it is not.”

RP GAS PIPING has witnessed first-hand this growing and problematic trend in our industry, which is not only unethical, but truly dangerous.  Homeowners allow critical work to be performed by unlicensed contractors or by contractors with different licensing – such as general landscaping – that does not qualify them for gas line piping work.  We are often contracted to fix the problems that result from these types of hiring decisions.  Gas lines will fail if the proper procedure and materials are not used when the installation process is completed.  Specific permit procurement is required and must be completed to ensure that the proper inspection of the work is completed.  The outcome of an improper installation can be gas leaks, premature corrosion and propane tank failure.  At best the consumer will pay for the gas line service twice, and at worst, a dangerous accident could occur. 

RP GAS PIPING cannot overstate the importance of hiring the proper contractor that is licensed and qualified for gas line and propane tank installation and of verifying a contractor or landscaper’s claim of qualification.  The AROC website offers free information for consumers about how to locate and choose a licensed contractor.  The website further explains that, “… with a licensed contractor, you as a residential property owner have significant protections not available to persons utilizing an unlicensed contractor.  This is your guarantee should the workmanship be below standard or in violation of existing codes.” 

Fortunately for consumers in Arizona, AROC makes it easy to check on the licensing and good standing of all contractors in the state.  Check a contractor’s license number online at http://www.azroc.gov/ or by calling 602-542-1525 or toll free 1-877-MYAZROC  (1-877-692-9762)