Jeremy did a terrific job for us. Hired him to run a gas line and install a gas stove for us. When he came to do the job he pointed out that the company that installed our new furnace, central air and hot water heater just 3 years ago had left us with pipes and fittings which were not up to code. Jeremy explained the problems to us and brought everything up to code for us for a very reasonable price. We have since been reimbursed by the company that installed our furnace for the cost to bring everything up to code. Were very glad we had a knowledgeable person here to correct issues could have caused us serious problems. Photos are pre repair by Jeremy.
- Approximate cost of services:
- $1,000.00
- Company Response
Thanks for the stellar review!
Unfortunately I still see this scenario on a weekly basis.
The issue is that any new gas appliance installation MUST meet current code standards. The gas code changed over 20 years ago to require copper gas line to be "TYPE G" and manufactured to the standard ASTM B837. In addition, the brass flare nuts on each end of the gas line were required to be manufacturered by "forging" process and NOT "milled" during manufacture. These requirements are spelled out in black and white in all the code books since the 2000 edition. I have had TSSA inspect specific instances of this and the Inspectors were enforcing this requirement as of 2002 - mainly to give a 2 year grace period to unknowing Gas Technicians.
Well folks, we are now 20 years later and this is still happening.
Every homeowner should be aware of this and every Gas Technician SHOULD KNOW THIS!
The big problem with the old copper formulation is the reaction to hydrogen sulphide in gas to create copper sulfidation in the pipes. This reaction over time builds a thin sulphide coating inside the pipe, which eventually flakes off and slows the gas flow to the appliance. Similar to "clogged arteries " a reduced gas flow can cause many different safety and operational problems.
How do you identify if the copper has been updated? THE APPROVED COPPER IS CLEARLY IDENTIFIED EVERY 20 INCHES IN PRINTED INK AS WELL AS LABELING INCISED INTO THE PIPE!
I would encourage every homeowner to ask to see these identification markings on every new copper gas line installation.
To identify the flare nuts, a milled flare nut will have horizontal lines across it and a forged nut looks like one solid piece without discernable lines. This is important because the forging process makes a stronger nut, whereas the milled nut is weakened by the milling process and has the greater potential to crack and leak.
So back to the installation. To put a "tee" in for the stove branch line the "illegal" line would have to be disconnected and then reconnected , but of course I can not reconnect the "illegal" outdated gas line.
As a reasonable resolution to avoid issuing a infraction and delaying the stove installation, I replaced the outdated copper and nuts at a deep discount to the homeowner. I suggested the homeowner contact the previous company for reimbursement. Surprisingly, the company was apologetic and provided full reimbursement immediately.
Sounds like a happy ending? Not quite!
These homeowners paid A LOT of money for a new furnace, air conditioner and water heater. These appliance requirements are critical to the comfort and safety in all aspects of the home. The fact that a large, long established business that advertises all-over tv and radio can disregard the safety of gas lines is astounding!
Was this a purposeful fraud or "accidental" incompetence? I guess their advertising forgot to mention that the colour of their trucks save you $$$ with either fraud or incompetence.If this information can help someone you know, please pass it along.
Cheers!
Jeremy