Installing black pipe for gas logs is a precision operation. It is also dangerous if not trained in the proper threading and sealing operation needed to maintain a safe operation. This article will cover the reasons why black pipe is critical to successful gas log installations.
Black pipe is the workhorse for heating systems
The installation of this material is so critical, many organizations like the Tennessee Gas Association establish codes and regulations. The pressure delivered in this pipe is large. The gas is flammable. Small leaks can spell big troubles. You do not want to trust just any handy man to install this pipe.
It is expensive, too. The pipe alone is easily over $500 for a typical installation with a meter that is close by. The true cost is in the installation. The pipe goes together in a reverse thread operation. If any changes are needed, most of the pipe has to be unscrewed and redone for the upgrade. Also, unless the length of pipe is exactly in 10 foot sections and nipples or 90 degrees are used, most pipe must be cut to scale. Black pipe for gas logs require special pipe cutters and expertise by the chimney company.
Run away from this type of proposal for gas work...
If a company or individual is willing to install gas lines with flexible connections all over the site or can not provide references with pictures of the work, stop and find another contractor. If it were easy and safe, gas line would be installed using a garden hose. Remember, this is your house and family’s safety here. Only allow qualified companies like Clear Chimney to install, maintain and service your natural gas or propane gas lines. Finally, when your gas fireplace is not working, call us for service.
Depending on the type of burner and logs, the propane gas that a fireplace will use is around a gallon per 100,000 BTUs. Many folks will install a 50,000 BTU burner with logs so therefore, it will equal 1 gallon for every 2 hours of use.
The typical outside propane tank of most homes is 500 gallons. Propane is used for stoves, clothes dryers and hot water on top of the fireplace. This means the tank will last around 6 to 7 months with average use.
How much propane gas does a fireplace use?
Propane does not have as much energy as natural gas. Therefore, it takes different orifices to burn propane. When you buy a stove or instantaneous water heater, be sure to specify propane. The two different gases do not use the same orifices.
Another common service issue we see is the size of the gas line from the propane tank. Often, changes over time will have different pipe sizes inside the house. This can starve the gas leading to the fireplace. The amount of heat a propane fireplace provides depends on the right amount of gas.
We will provide a free estimate on the installation of the log set. If you do not have a propane tank or natural gas, we will help coordinate the installation from the suppliers. Clear Chimney is able to install the black pipe necessary to get the gas logs working quickly.
For your health, sit down when you see the spot price of propane in Knoxville TN now. Everyone that pays attention knew it was going up from last year. We didn’t think it would really go up 50%.
We won’t get into the why it is going up. Anyone paying attention to energy these days understands what is driving this unnecessary price increase. For the “official” measurement of propane, check out the government energy site here.
Most Americans will cut back other spending to heat their home with propane. In the back areas of Tennessee and other rural spaces, propane is the only alternative to all electric. Try heating the home with all electric for another surprise. Plus, propane keeps you off the grid if you are looking for a possible upside.
As you see in the above picture of our bill, the price of propane in Knoxville TN is $3.70 per gallon. This was filling up a 500 gallon tank. They will fill to 80% to allow for expansion. The maximum fill amount then is 400 gallons at 80% of the propane tank.
This tank was down to 23%. If it was completely empty, then the bill would be around $1,500 with taxes and fees. OUCH! So, when we have to make decisions on “leaders” make sure they understand your pain.
