Why Your Gas Line Must Hold Pressure Before Peoples or Columbia Gas Can Restore Service
Understanding Gas Pressure Tests
When Peoples Gas or Columbia Gas shuts off your natural gas service, they require your entire gas piping system to be pressure tested before service can be restored. This test ensures that your gas lines are airtight, safe, and compliant with local codes.
At Steel City Natural Gas, we perform professional gas line pressure testing and leak repair across Pittsburgh and Allegheny County. Whether your service was shut off for a leak, new construction, or routine maintenance, we handle everything needed for reinspection and reconnection.
Why Pressure Testing Matters
Gas pressure testing is critical for your safety and your utility’s compliance standards. If your gas line doesn’t hold pressure during testing, it means there’s a leak somewhere in the system. Even a small leak can lead to dangerous gas buildup or utility refusal to restore your service.
During the test, your licensed gas technician will pressurize the gas line with air and monitor it over a set period — usually 15 to 30 minutes — to ensure no pressure drop occurs. Peoples and Columbia Gas both require that the test is performed and documented by a certified plumber or gas contractor before they’ll reconnect your meter.
What Happens If Your Gas Line Fails the Test?
If your gas line fails the pressure test, the leak must be found and repaired before retesting. Common issues include:
- Old or corroded steel gas pipes underground
- Loose fittings or improper thread sealant
- Leaks at appliance connections or shut-off valves
Once repaired, our team will re-pressurize the line and provide all documentation required for Peoples or Columbia Gas to safely restore service.
How Steel City Natural Gas Can Help
We specialize in restoring gas service quickly for homeowners and property managers throughout Pittsburgh and Allegheny County. Our licensed technicians handle:
If your gas has been shut off and you were told you need a pressure test — don’t wait. Contact Steel City Natural Gas today for same-day testing and inspection support.
Call/Text us or request service online to get started.