East Bay Gas Lines Danville - Gas Grill Maintenance

Photo: Courtesy of Wolf Appliances

Nothing announces the arrival of summer like firing up the grill. Unfortunately, nothing sours a summer party faster than a grill that won't light, smokes too much, or cooks unevenly. Grease, marinades, and sauces wreak havoc on gas burners, while charcoal grills suffer the corrosive properties of charcoal.

Grills of all kinds, from simple kettles to stainless steel restaurant-grade infrared grills, require maintenance to ensure that they perform and last. "At least twice a year you need to pull the grill apart to get inside and take a closer look at it," says Derrick Riches, barbecue and grilling guide for About.com. A thorough cleaning ensures that the burners fire properly, heat distributes evenly, and the grill is safe. Regular maintenance also allows you to catch problems like rust early on. Here is a This Old House primer on keeping your grill in shape.

Inspect the Chassis: Grills with welded joints or connections with pop rivets can rust. Scrub rust off with a stiff wire brush or coarse steel wool, apply a rust-inhibiting primer, and paint the grill's exterior with rust-resistant metal paint. Keep fasteners tight to ensure the base is stable and safe. Replace damaged grill appendages, like wheels, handles, or any other part of your grill, by contacting the manufacturer. You can also refer to the CLA Grills and Service website, or the Appliance Factory Parts website. Use dish soap or a mild detergent to clean cast aluminum grills, and Simple Green all-purpose, biodegradable cleaner for stainless steel ones. 

Clean the Burners: Riches stresses that cleaning burners keeps the unit working at its best. Burner ports can fill with grease and close up, leading to hot and cold spots on the grill. While the unit is cold, use a stainless steel wire brush or flexible pipe cleaner to remove the gunk from a traditional gas burner. The flames should be distributed evenly throughout the burner after a good cleaning. Brush off any ash that accumulates on infrared grills, and be sure to keep the glass clean. Infrared grill manufacturers suggest using Bar Keepers Friend, a non-abrasive cleaner, to remove any deposits. Running the grill for 10 minutes on high after cooking also helps keep the ports free of build up.

Flame Color: There are a couple of reasons gas flames turn from their normal blue with yellow tips to completely yellow. The most common is inadequate gas pressure from the tank. Since propane expands at freezing temperatures, the pressure bladder in the regulator (a round disk attached to the gas line) can freeze into place and limit the flow of gas to the burner. If you have a yellow flame, try this remedy: First, turn the tank off and turn off the grill's control valves. Next, disconnect the tank, then open and close the control valves. Finally, reconnect the tank and slowly turn the gas back on to check the flame's color. Another cause of yellow flame is pressurized propane that, over time, can force the burner ports to widen. As a result, too much gas escapes. Riches recommends inspecting the burners and replacing them if they are misshapen or cracked. Once the burners are cleaned, light the grill to ensure that all flames are blue and similar in height.

Grease traps: Grill grease traps are typically trays or disposable aluminum cups beneath the firebox that collect fat. Keep these traps clean and drained because large pools of grease can ignite. Burners combined with a grease fire will exceed the maximum amount of heat the grill can handle.

Hoses: Replacing a worn or damaged fuel line is an easy task once you locate the problem. Manufacturers suggest coating everything—from the tank, to the venturi tubes, which connect the control valve to the burner—with soapy water. For a neat job, Riches uses a basting brush to apply the soap solution. Then, turn the grill on. Any bubbles that appear on coated areas indicate escaping gas, which can be fixed by replacing the hose or O-ring. The gap in the venturi tubes mixes gas with air enroute to the burner and can easily clog with debris or insects. Riches recommends wrapping the tubes with aluminum screen to let air in and keep bugs out.

Between the Burner and Grate: Sometimes called the radiant or flavorizer bar, this part of the grill evenly distributes heat to the grate above and produces smoke when food drippings seep down. "Most of the wear is in the flavorizer bars, because they see the most heat and grease," says Brooke Jones of Weber Grills. Brush off grease and debris from the metal plates because they can trap moisture and cause rusting. Replace lava rocks or ceramic briquettes if they give off a rancid flavor.

Grill Covers: Keeping a grill protected from the elements is the easiest way to preserve it. Covers should have a cloth inner lining to draw moisture away from the metal. A simple plastic sheet holds moisture in, creating a humid environment around the grill, which can lead to rusting. Use a canvas, cloth, or vinyl cover that fits the grill appropriately. Keep in mind that UV rays beak down cheaper, generic covers.

source: http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/article/0,,1638829,00.html
by Sal Vaglica

http://www.eastbaygaslines.com

Gas Line Repair and Work - Skills You Need to Survive Homeownership - Deal With the Strong Smell of Gas - East Bay Gas Lines Danville

Don't get caught with your toolbelt down—learn this technique and tackle any household emergency with ease

A closed-up kitchen with gas flowing from an open unlit burner can create a combustible atmosphere in as little as 10 seconds. So if you smell gas—we mean really smell gas—do not turn on the lights or use a telephone, cell phone, flashlight, or computer, all of which could create a spark, blowing the place sky high. Instead, haul everybody out of there and call the gas utility or the fire department immediately.

source: http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/photos/0,,20434090_20863285,00.html
this old house magazine


htttp://www.eastbaygaslines.com

East Bay Gas Lines Danville - 10 Tips for Maintaining Your Gas Fireplace

Gas fireplaces are great additions to any home; they look great and are more efficient than wood fireplaces; however they require regular maintenance. Gas fireplaces can be dangerous; therefore it is very important to take the maintenance seriously. This article will take a look at 10 tips for gas fireplace maintenance that will help keep you safe and your fireplace working efficiently. If you think there is any kind of problem with the gas fireplace have a professional take a look at it, ignoring problems can be dangerous and deadly.

1. Safety first

When attempting any maintenance or cleaning you should make sure the gas valve is turned off; if the valve is not turned off there is potential for injury or death.

2. Get the unit inspected

When dealing with a gas fireplace you do not want to take chances, if anything seems off about the unit you should call in a licensed gas technician to be on the safe side.

3. Does your gas fireplace have a working fan?

Not all gas fireplaces require the use of a fan; however some people install fans to spread the heat out throughout the room. If you happen to have a fan make sure to check if it is working properly, if it is not you are not getting the full benefit of the fireplace.

4. Ventilation system

The ventilation system is one of the most important things to check while doing routine maintenance on a gas fireplace. If there is any clogging or anything preventing the ventilation system from working properly it needs to be fixed immediately. If there is something clogging the ventilation system you could have a very unsafe fireplace that could cause injury or death.

5. Clean the glass on the door

About every 1-2 months you should clean the glass door to make sure there is no nasty build up or irregularities. Make sure to use a cleaner that the manufacturer deems safe for the gas fireplace. Most hardware stores and large home improvement stores sell special glass cleaner for gas fireplaces and can be found near the fireplace accessories.

6. Do you need to take the door off to clean it?

When cleaning the glass on the gas fireplace door you have two options, you can leave the door attached to the unit or remove it and clean it on a soft surface. If the gas fireplace is turned off and you feel comfortable cleaning it while still attached then you can clean it this way to save time and aggravation.

7. Have you checked the fake logs lately?

The logs that are used in gas fireplaces can become dirty and can even break on occasion. Make sure to inspect the logs on a monthly basis or at the first sign of unusual behavior; skipping this step could cause malfunction and possibly injury. When cleaning the fake logs make sure to use a soft bristle log cleaning brush, which can be picked up at most hardware stores.

8. Don't skip annual maintenance

Although annual maintenance for gas fireplaces is very expensive since it requires a licensed gas technician it is a good idea to not skip maintenance. If there is a leak or build up in the ventilation system you could be out a lot more money than the maintenance cost in damages. Many gas fireplace owners skip this step to save a few dollars; however skipping this step can cause malfunction and even injury.

9. Use recommended cleaners for cleaning logs, glass, and interior

I worked for a local hardware store for multiple years as a student job and know the prices of cleaners for gas fireplaces, some can be very high. Although the cleaners may be expensive you should not try your own solution unless it is recommended by the manufacturer; you could be voiding your warranty and damaging the unit. Do not cut corners!

10. The pilot light

The pilot light can be turned off during the spring and summer when the stove is not in use; it can also be easily turned back on during the months that the stove is in use. Always read the instruction manual before tampering with the pilot light.

Sources: http://voices.yahoo.com/10-tips-maintaining-gas-fireplace-4115875.html?cat=6
by Josh Mason

http://www.stretcher.com/stories/04/04oct25e.cfm

http://hearth.com/econtent/index.php/articles/cleaning_glass

East Bay Gas Lines - Gas Appliance Safety

  

When lighting any match-lit burners or ovens, always light the match before turning on the gas. If the flame goes out, turn off the burner and let the gas disperse before relighting.

Clean away any grease, oil or debris from the area around burners to help prevent fires.

Never use water to put out a grease fire. Use baking soda, or if a fire is in a pan, smother the flames with a lid. A fire extinguisher in the kitchen is also recommended.

Move any flammable objects — towels, curtains, calendars — away from range burners and other hot surfaces.

 

Ovens

Never use your oven for domestic heating. This misuse of your oven puts you at risk of burns from hot surfaces and shortens the life of oven parts and controls. Use only heaters that are designed for domestic heating and follow the manufacturer's operating instructions.

 

Make sure your water heater issecurely anchored to a wall. This will help prevent the heater from shifting and possibly falling in an earthquake.

If your water heater is on an elevated platform, make sure the platform is sturdy enough to withstand the weight of the water heater and movement during an earthquake.

A temperature of 120 degrees F is adequate for most household uses with minimal danger of scalding and maximum energy efficiency. Dishwashers require a temperature of 140 degrees F for proper disinfection and cleaning. Most dishwashers preheat the water to the proper temperature; if not, lowering the water-heating temperature is not recommended

Do not store flammable materials — mops, brooms, laundry, newspapers — near your water heater.

Do not store combustible materials — paints, solvents, gasoline — in the same room or near your water heater.

  

Your furnace should be serviced once a year to help maximize its life and performance. Follow the instructions in the owner's manual, or call a qualified professional.

Have your furnace checked for fire hazards such as a damaged firebox and any dislodged, clogged, rusted or damaged vents.

Clean or replace your filter regularly, or after each month of heavy usage.

Replace the blower door cover after checking your filter.

Securely fasten the door that covers the pilot light and burner area.

Do not store combustible materials — paints, solvents, gasoline — in the same room or near your furnace.

Do not store flammable materials mops, brooms, laundry, newspapers — near your furnace.

Air-supply vents must be clear of obstructions. Furnaces need a constant supply of fresh air to run efficiently and safely.

Kerosene heaters or other unvented heaters are not recommended and should only be used in well-ventilated rooms. Always operate your heater according to the manufacturer's instructions.

All Gas Appliances

Do not store flammable materials — mops, brooms, laundry, newspapers — near gas appliances.

Do not store combustible materials — paints, solvents, gasoline — in the same room or near your appliances.

Make sure a flexible gas line connection is installed connecting the gas houseline (the gas pipe connecting your appliances to the gas meter) to the appliance to reduce the likelihood of damage if movement should occur.

You should have an appliance gas shutoff valve installed at each gas appliance that lets you turn off the gas to that appliance only if there is a gas leak, or if the appliance needs to be replaced or serviced.

source: http://www.pge.com/myhome/edusafety/gaselectricsafety/gasappliancesafety/

 

http://www.eastbaygaslines.com

 

East Bay Gas Lines - Upgrade and Save Energy with Fireplace Inserts

 

According to the National Association of Home Builders, fireplaces rank among the top three features desired by new homebuyers. Unfortunately, fireplaces are also major air gaps—they can send up to 8 percent of valuable furnace-heated air flying out the chimney, making them really fun to look at but inefficient as heating sources. Here's the good news: You can transform your firebox into an efficient room heater by adding an insert.

An insert, installed by a factory-trained professional (to ensure proper venting and best efficiency results), will draft-proof an open fireplace while the unit's shell keeps heat in the room and away from the masonry. The cost can can set you back about $2,000 to $4,000 (pro install included), depending on the state of your existing chimney (does it need relining?) and the model you select. But this investment pays for itself by slashing those monthly heating bills.

This redesign of the popular wood-burning "Pacific" model now has a more refined look and can fit into smaller fireplace openings. The unit features an airwash system to keep its heat-conducting ceramic glass clear and one-touch adjustable temperature control. Variable speed blower included, to easily heat up to 2,000 square feet. Available in one- or two-door styles with gold, nickel, or metallic trim. Unit measures 29h x 42 3/4w or 33h x 44 3/8w. 

 

This unit is will fit most factory-built and masonry fireplaces and features a realistic dancing flame over a log set cast from real wood. Blower delivers heating for up to 2,000 square feet via optional wireless remote thermostat control. Available in a variety of face options and inset designs. Unit measures 29h x 41w thru 33h x 48w.

The mid-sized gas model offers a simplified operating system and electronic ignition for easy lighting. It's can heat up to 2,000 square feet (with optional fan) and is available with a variety of finishes and frames. Unit measures 33 3/8h x 44 3/16w or 36 3/8h x 48 3/16w.

This model delivers the most heat in the Enviro pellet insert line of product, quickly heating up to 1,800 square feet. It features an ignitor, easy-clean ports, and a three-piece glass bay door for optimal flame-watching. Feed the hopper with renewable recycled wood wastes, dried corn, or another readily available economical source for your area. Personalize the look of the unit with 24K gold or nickel door cover and trivet options. Unit measures 28h x 40w or 33h x 46w.

By Tabitha Sukhai OLD HOUSE MAGAZINE
http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/photos/0,,20341633,00.html

 

http://www.eastbaygaslines.com

East Bay Gas Lines - Danville - How do I Know What Size Generator to Buy for My House?

A backup generator can provide power in the event of an outage for essential appliances such as refrigerators, freezers, sump and lift pumps and a few lights. Estimating the size of the generator required means adding up the total number of watts used by each appliance you intend to provide power in the event of an outage. This information is available on the appliance nameplates or in the documentation supplied with each appliance. The more appliances you include, the more that can be powered, but the cost increases as the size of the generator goes up.

1 Make a list of the appliances you wish to power during an outage. Include refrigerators, freezers, furnace, and electric range, along with well, sump, lift or ejector pumps. Include the number of watts each appliance requires for starting and running. Consult the appliance documentation or nameplate for this information, which is expressed as watts, kilowatts or volt-amps. Calculate power requirements by multiplying amps by voltage for appliances that do not list watts, kilowatts or volt-amps.

2 Determine starting power requirements for appliances with motors that do not list the starting power needed, such as refrigerators, air conditioners, washers and dryers. Contact the manufacturer of these appliances or consult a chart that gives average requirements for these appliances.

3 Total the running power requirements for appliances which do not have different starting and running loads, such as incandescent lights, water heaters and toasters. Total the starting power requirements for other appliances with motors, such as pumps and refrigerators. Add the two totals together for the total power required.

4 Choose between 240-volt and 120-volt generators; 240-volt generators will run electric stoves, electric baseboard heaters, electric dryers, central air conditioning units and dishwashers. Select a model the provides both the voltage and the total power requirements needed to run the appliances you selected to have operational during a power outage.

 

source: http://homeguides.sfgate.com/size-generator-buy-house-2860.html
by Michael Logan

 

http://www.eastbaygaslines.com

East Bay Gas Lines Danville - Propane Service Piping - LPG Yard Line

 

The gas line that runs between the tank and the structure housing the gas appliances is the service piping, also known as the yard line. The propane yard line generally consists of copper tubing or plastic polyethylene piping. The service piping needs to be installed correctly and legally in conjunction with the propane tank for the entire outside portion of the installation to be safe and serviceable.

The part of the yard line that is visible is where it comes out of the ground next to the tank and at the point it enters the building or where it connects to the point of use, such as a generator or pool heater. Only approved materials and fittings are to be used for any part of a propane gas service line. Materials such as PVC, rubber hose and flex lines are illegal and are not to be used in any part of the gas service line.

Important Note About Underground Piping Materials - Allowable materials used for underground piping/tubing vary from state to state. The photos here depict copper tubing installed underground in a state where copper tubing is approved for underground yard line installations. Copper tubing is not an approved underground piping material in some states. Consult a licensed propane company in your state for more information about approved underground gas piping and yard line requirements.

Propane Line Depth Requirements

The yard line is subject to depth requirements for the protection of the line and connections on either end. Depths range from 12 to 18 inches underground, depending on vehicular traffic. The reason for this depth requirement is simple - the earth, dirt, sand or whatever is covering the line needs to adequately protect the underground gas line from damage. A copper line running under a dirt drive that is buried just a few inches underground can be easily crimped or crushed by the weight of a vehicle. Similarly, a line running on the surface of the ground can easily be damaged by accidentally tripping over it. The inadvertent movement of the gas service line can cause leaks to form at the connections on either end of the line. For these simple reasons, the gas line needs to be buried at a safe and required depth. Propane gas lines running along the top of the ground (pictured below) constitute illegal installations.

LP Gas Underground Piping Materials

The materials used for underground piping and tubing are subject to strict limitations. These material requirements are in place because of the unfriendly underground environment the pipe and tubing will be exposed to. Like underground propane tanks, buried piping and tubing must be made of a material that will resist harsh underground conditions. Additional protective measures must be taken in certain cases like placing the gas line in a PVC sleeve or wrapping it with a protective tape. All of these measures are for the protection against loss of propane. If unapproved materials are used for underground piping, propane leaks will form. Also, piping materials such as steel must be protected by sleeving or taping the service line or corrosion will begin to damage the piping.

source: http://www.propane101.com/lpgasserviceline.htm