Gas and Oil Home Heating Furnaces - How to install a gas line for a clothes dryer

My wife wanted a gas clothes dryer and the current dryer is electric. We have gas forced air heat and gas water heater. WE need to continue the gas line across the basement to the laudary room on the first floor. I need the how to's. Thanks.

Hi:bigdave

There are as many questions as there are answers to a question like this. Without knowing the specific's it's difficult to say exactly.

However, I can tell you, based on what you postedyou'll need to do several things.

First, turn off the main gas at the meter. Then install a TEE into the gas supply line somewhere at the furnace or water heater were it will not interfear with thoseappliances.

Always install a shut off at the first section of the added line. So it's a TEE on the pipe, then a short length of pipe, then a double female shut off. This is for future safety in case of a leak.

Then run the pipe you need using as few connections as possible and support the pipes well.

Then drill up through the floor were needed and again support the pipe. Install another shutoff valve. <These are usually 1/2x1/2x3/8 valves>

Most importantly is to SOAP TEST everything you removed or added before callingthat job completed! Then run the dryers exhaust vent with as few bends or turns as possible.

You can also inquire at the city building and safety departments local office in your town. In some areas a permit may be required, which, isn't all that bad, since the additional line will be inspected and sure to meet code.

Good Luck,
TomBartco

I don't really like to tell the average homeowner how to do these types of jobs because of the danger involved and the lack of knowledge required to assess the requirement of this type of installation. It's quite possible that the existing gas line in the home is not large enough to supply gas to the added load (dryer). Also if it's a newer home, the gas pressure entering the structure may be of higher pressure and require the used of a pressure reducer at the new appliance. And adapting or extending from iron piping is not something the average person is familiar with. I'm trying not to sound insulting but if you have to come to a forum like this to have these kinds of questions answered, then you probably shouldn't be doing it in the first place. I would advise you to get a qualified gas installer out to advise you on what can and cannot be done. This may be a bigger job then at first glance. And remember, a 110V plug will stll be required at the new dryer plus the venting out the wall CANNOT be the plastic flex pipe used on electric dryers. It must be solid aluminum or galvinized pipe and elbows or flexible "heavier guage" aluminum flex piping. Often it is not more than a couple of a hundred dollars to have a qualified guy do this type of installation for you. I think this would be your best bet.

HI Guys:

I agree with sheetmet. This is not a job for a homeowner. John.