Old Gas Lines in Historic Homes: Safety and Replacement

Why old gas piping deserves attention

Gas service in Orange is supplied by SoCalGas up to the meter. Piping from the meter to the stove, water heater, furnace and dryer belongs to the house, and in older homes it may be decades old.

Over the years, rooms are remodeled, appliances move and lines are capped or extended. That can leave unused branches, old connectors and threaded joints in places nobody remembers.

Outdoor piping, piping in damp crawlspaces and flexible connectors at older appliances are worth checking. Corrosion and loosened joints are the usual concerns.

Signs to have gas piping checked

A faint gas odor near an appliance, even if it comes and goes.
Visible rust on gas pipe in the crawlspace or along an exterior wall.
Old flexible connectors behind a range, dryer or water heater.
Capped lines from appliances that were removed years ago.
Plans to add a gas appliance or move the kitchen.

How gas line work usually proceeds

Assess the system.A qualified contractor traces the piping from the meter to each appliance and notes material and condition.
Pressure test.The system is tested for leaks using methods required for gas work.
Repair or replace.Leaking or corroded sections are replaced and unused branches properly capped or removed.
Update connectors and valves.Old appliance connectors and shutoffs are replaced as needed.
Inspect.Gas line work generally requires a permit and inspection; check with the City of Orange.

Who handles what

Gas supply and meter: SoCalGas
Piping after the meter: The property owner, through a licensed contractor
Permits and inspection: City of Orange; check current requirements
License check: Look up any contractor at cslb.ca.gov

Questions to ask a contractor

Are you licensed for gas piping work, and what is your CSLB license number?
Will you pressure test the whole system or only the section you repair?
Are there unused branches that should be capped or removed?
Do any appliance connectors need replacing?
Who arranges the permit and inspection?

Common questions

Can I tighten a leaking gas fitting myself?

No. Gas leaks should be handled by SoCalGas and a qualified licensed contractor. Leave the house and call from outside if you smell gas.

Does SoCalGas repair piping inside my house?

SoCalGas responds to gas odor calls and handles service up to the meter. Repairs to house piping are generally done by a licensed contractor; ask SoCalGas what they found when they respond.

Do I need a permit to replace gas piping?

Gas piping work generally requires a permit and inspection. Check with the City of Orange for current requirements.

General information for Old Towne Orange, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.