A gas detector can find a leak you already suspect. A pressure test answers a bigger question: is the whole gas system tight? We close the system off, bring it up to test pressure and watch a gauge. If the reading drops, gas is escaping somewhere, even if nobody can smell it yet.
Homeowners call us for pressure tests for different reasons. Some have a faint smell they cannot track down. Some are buying an older home and want to know what they are getting. Others need proof that new piping is sound before an inspection or before a remodel closes up the walls.
What our gas pressure testing service includes
- Isolating the gas system from the meter so it can be tested on its own
- A test gauge connected to the system and brought up to test pressure
- A timed hold to see whether the system loses pressure
- Section-by-section testing to narrow down where a pressure drop comes from
- A plain explanation of the results and what, if anything, needs repair
- Relighting every pilot light after the test is complete
How the job works, step by step
- Shut off and isolateWe turn off the gas, close appliance valves as needed and connect our test equipment to the system.
- PressurizeThe piping is brought up to test pressure using air, and the gauge reading is recorded.
- Hold and watchWe hold the system at pressure for a set time. A steady reading means the piping is tight.
- Report and restoreIf pressure drops, we track down the source. Either way, we explain the results and restore gas to your appliances.
Good reasons to schedule a pressure test
- A faint gas smell that comes and goes and cannot be pinned down
- You are buying or selling an older home and want to know the condition of the gas piping
- New gas piping has been installed and needs to be checked before walls are closed
- The gas utility shut off service because of a suspected leak
- An earthquake, a car hitting the meter area or other damage may have stressed the piping
When to call us
Call us whenever you are unsure whether your gas system is safe. A pressure test gives a clear answer instead of a guess, and it is often the first step in any leak repair we do.
If you are in escrow on a home in Cerritos or nearby, testing the gas piping during your inspection period gives you time to plan repairs before closing.
Strong smell of gas? Leave the house first and call 911 or your gas utility from outside. Then call us for the repair.
