When Your Gas Pipes Should Get Replaced

Are you worried about a dangerous gas leak? Whether you’re renovating the kitchen or you just want to know why your energy usage keeps climbing, Mr. Rooter Plumbing is here to help. We’ve seen it all. From corroded steel piping under concrete slabs to tree roots wrapping around old lines. Knowing when your gas pipes need to be replaced will protect your property and your safety. Keep reading to find out what to look for and when you should call a plumber in Eastvale, CA.

Your Gas Lines Have an Expiration Date

Most pipes are made from black steel, copper, or galvanized steel, and each material has its own timeline. Black steel usually lasts from 50 to 70 years, but galvanized pipes can break down faster in as little as 30 years. If your house was built before the 1990s and still has the original gas system, then you’re on borrowed time. Even newer homes can have faulty pipe fittings or materials that degrade faster than expected. If you’ve had multiple plumbing repair services in recent years, especially involving gas appliances or heating systems, your gas pipes could be the problem. Don’t wait for an emergency. If your pipes are nearing the end of their natural lifespan, then it’s better to schedule an inspection and consider replacement than risk an expensive and dangerous issue later on.

Bad Smells and Strange Sounds Could Be Warning Signs

Utility companies add a chemical called mercaptan to natural gas so that leaks are easier to detect. And it has an unmistakable rotten egg odor. If you notice it, especially near your water heater, fireplace, or stove, don’t try to fix it yourself. Leave the house right away, call your utility company, and then call a reliable plumber. You might also notice hissing sounds near your appliances or along the wall where your gas lines are routed. That noise could mean that gas is escaping through a pinhole or hairline crack in the pipe. You could also see bubbling in the wet ground above buried gas lines or simply notice that your gas appliances aren’t working as efficiently as they used to. If these issues are popping up again and again, then your entire system needs to be evaluated. Replacing aging or damaged gas pipes now will prevent carbon monoxide risks.

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Tree Roots Don’t Just Affect Sewer Pipes

It’s common knowledge that tree roots can wreck sewer systems, but they can just as easily interfere with buried gas pipes. Trees are drawn to moisture and nutrients, which are present near aging gas lines. As the roots grow, they can wrap around and compress pipes and cause small fractures or dislodge joints. This can eventually lead to leaks or total pipe separation. If you’ve noticed tree roots invading other areas of your yard, it’s worth asking a plumber to take a look at your gas lines, especially if they’re older or located near mature landscaping. Modern camera inspection tools make it possible to detect root pressure on gas lines without needing to dig up your yard. If it’s caught early, you might be able to reroute or reinforce your system before major damage occurs. If the roots have already caused cracks or corrosion, then replacement might be your only safe option.

Routine Inspections Aren’t a Luxury

A lot of homeowners skip routine maintenance for their gas lines. But gas piping doesn’t always fail loudly. Sometimes, the first signs of a leak will be headaches, nausea, or fatigue caused by low-level exposure to gas or carbon monoxide. An annual inspection can reveal hidden corrosion, small leaks, or signs of wear before they become serious hazards. A plumbing repair service can fix these problems so you can have peace of mind. When your family relies on gas for heating, cooking, and hot water, it isn’t worth the risk of waiting until something goes wrong.

Do You Need a Gas Line Replacement or Repair Service?

Gas line replacement isn’t something to put off until the last minute. If your pipes are more than a few decades old, then it’s time to consider a full review of your system. Mr. Rooter Plumbing is here to help you overcome the challenges and dangers of gas leaks with a professional inspection or plumbing repair service. We also offer a wide range of other plumbing-related services, from toilet repair to fixture replacements. Contact our team if you have questions or if you’re ready to schedule an appointment.