Propane is so versatile and so efficient, it makes a great choice for a wide range of appliances for your home. But you can’t just plug in a gas appliance and turn it on. That said, if you already have propane running in your home, adding appliances is not complicated—although it does require a pro.
The primary reason to work with a professional is safety. Incorrectly installed gas appliances can result in propane leaks, which can be dangerous. Another reason you should have a pro perform installation work is that it could void the manufacturer’s warranty.
When you work with the expert team at Pico, the process is easy and quick. We will make sure your new appliance is installed correctly and safely, and we’ll have your back if you need a repair.
While every propane appliance is different, there are a few basic steps that will apply across the board. Here are the general steps and what you can expect for the installation process for most propane appliances.
Time: Installations are usually quick and easy if you already have propane in use in your home.
The typical installations take an hour or two for most appliances.
Venting: It may be necessary to install or connect an exhaust pipe or flue based on your current system’s configuration. While codes regulating ventilation can vary depending on the location and situation, improper venting can lead to poor performance and the accumulation of carbon monoxide.
Pressure: The propane in your storage tank is under high pressure, and the regulator lowers the pressure before the gas enters your home. It’s important to adjust the regulator correctly for propane because it has different settings than natural gas. Failure to do so could lead to a hazardous gas leak. The regulator is also responsible for ensuring the proper combination of propane and air for efficient combustion. Different appliances may require different pressure levels for optimal operation and efficiency. Any alterations done by someone with insufficient knowledge can disturb this ratio and result in the production of dangerous levels of carbon monoxide, or a leak.
Testing: No installation is complete without testing to ensure all components are working properly, any pilots are lit, and there are no leaks.
Many propane appliances will be installed inside your home—laundry equipment, space heaters and fireplaces, cooking ranges, and the like. But some appliances designed for outdoor use can be connected to your main propane storage tank as well.
The most common of these are propane grills, but can also include outdoor fire pits, as well as pool and spa heaters. The process is similar: We will set up a connection between the equipment and your propane storage tank, ensure the pressure and regulator is correctly adjusted, and the appliance is operating correctly and without leaks. The main differences are that venting is often not necessary for outdoor installations (as long as the grill or fireplace is not covered or enclosed in any way), and also some excavation may be required to bury propane lines: We can help you navigate the regulations and local codes.
There’s a reason people trust Pico for propane appliance installations and repairs, along with dependable propane deliveries to keep everything running. Our expert technicians will work with you to make sure work is done right. In addition to propane heating and water heating systems, we can help you with a variety of appliances and equipment including log sets, firepits, patio heaters and more.
Contact us today!
