Washington Gas runs pipelines through Great Falls, so a gas smell in a home on its system means leaving and then calling 911 and 844-WASHGAS (844-927-4427), option 1, from outside; homes on propane call 911 and their propane supplier. Piping work past the meter or tank needs a Fairfax County permit. Call the number on this page to be connected with a local plumber in Great Falls.
What happens when you call
The number on this page connects you to an independent plumber who takes gas work in Great Falls. Start by saying whether the house is on Washington Gas or propane. Then describe the problem or the plan: a smell near the generator, a pool heater that won't fire, a new outdoor kitchen. Large lots mean long runs, so mention how far the appliance is from the meter or tank.
For a repair, the plumber shuts off the supply, finds and fixes the leak, tests the system and relights. For new work, the line is sized for the full load, run, pressure tested and inspected before use.
What shapes the cost
- Distance from meter or tank: long runs across a big lot can require larger pipe
- High-demand appliances such as generators, pool heaters and multiple fireplaces
- Trenching, boring under driveways and restoring landscaping
- Fairfax County permits and inspections
- Whether the existing supply, including the utility meter or tank regulator, can handle the added load
Local conditions in Great Falls
Great Falls is partly rural, with large lots and a bedroom-community character along the Potomac. The local citizens association notes that Washington Gas operates pipelines throughout the area, but not every home is connected; houses off the mains run on propane or electricity. Many homes here also rely on private wells, which is a separate system from the gas but often means the house has a utility room crowded with well equipment, a water heater and a furnace.
Fairfax County Land Development Services issues the permits through PLUS. Gas appliance replacements need a Household Appliance permit even when like-for-like, and new gas piping needs a Residential Plumbing permit. LDS is at 703-222-0801.
The median home was built in 1985, and many are large houses with several gas appliances. Adding another often reveals that the original trunk was sized for fewer loads.
Checklist before the visit
- Know whether you're on Washington Gas or propane, and who your propane supplier is
- Locate the meter or tank and the main shutoff
- Have the gas ratings of every appliance the line will serve
- Mark private lines you know about, such as pool heater or barn runs
- Call 811 for any planned digging
Gas Line Services questions in Great Falls
Our home uses propane. Who handles leaks and new piping?
How do I know which gas company serves my address?
Do I need to call 811 before digging in the yard?
Can a plumber add a gas line for a range, dryer or fireplace?
More plumbing services in Great Falls
Gas Line Services nearby
Helpful guides
Sources
Last updated: