How to use the calendar

None of these checks involve taking anything apart. They are visual inspections, alarm tests and housekeeping that any homeowner can do. Anything that looks wrong goes on the list for a licensed plumber or the appliance's service technician.

Southern California's mild winters still bring a heating season, and Villa Park's pools, spas and outdoor kitchens mean gas use outdoors year round. The calendar is arranged around those patterns.

Season by season

January
Test carbon monoxide and smoke alarms. Look at the furnace area for anything stored too close to it.
March
Walk the yard along any buried gas runs and look for browning strips of grass or plants.
May
Before outdoor cooking season, check BBQ and fire pit valves and hoses for rust, cracks or insect nests in burners.
July
Check the pool or spa heater pad: clear debris, look at the valve and pipe for corrosion from overspray and chemicals.
September
Confirm the water heater's seismic straps are tight and the meter wrench is still where it belongs.
October
Before heating season, schedule furnace service and look at connectors behind the range and dryer.
December
Review your gas shutoff map and earthquake plan with everyone in the household.

Every visit to a gas appliance

  • No gas odor near the appliance or valve
  • Flame is steady and mostly blue on burners
  • Nothing flammable stored near water heaters or furnaces
  • Connector is not kinked, crushed or touching hot surfaces
  • Shutoff valve is visible and reachable
  • Vents and flues are intact and not blocked

Earthquake readiness

  • Tank water heater strapped as California requires
  • Meter wrench or shutoff tool stored near the meter
  • Everyone knows not to turn the meter back on after closing it
  • Gas shutoff map printed and with emergency supplies
  • Ask the city whether an automatic seismic gas shutoff valve applies to your home

When a check turns something up

  • IfYou smell gasThenLeave and call 911 or SoCalGas from outside.
  • IfA connector is old uncoated brass or damagedThenSchedule a plumber to replace it.
  • IfStraps on the water heater are loose or missingThenHave them installed or tightened.
  • IfAn outdoor valve is badly rustedThenAsk a plumber to evaluate and replace it.

Common questions

Do I need a professional gas inspection every year?

There is no single rule for homes, but annual service on furnaces and other major appliances is common practice. Ask the appliance manufacturer and your service technician.

Why are water heater straps on a gas calendar?

A tank that tips in an earthquake can break its gas connection. California requires water heaters to be seismically strapped.

Can I clean BBQ burners myself?

Basic cleaning per the grill manual is fine. Anything involving the gas line or valve belongs to a licensed plumber.

General information for Villa Park, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.