What happens if gas piping is not sized correctly?

When gas piping is not sized correctly, it can lead to excessive pressure drops within the system. This occurs because if the pipe diameter is too small for the volume of gas being delivered, the gas will face increased resistance as it flows through the piping. This results in a significant drop in pressure by the time the gas reaches its destination, such as an appliance or a burner.

Excessive pressure drops can cause several operational problems. Appliances may not operate efficiently or effectively, leading to incomplete combustion, poor performance, and potentially unsafe conditions. In addition, the overall energy efficiency of the system may decrease, leading to increased operating costs and potential service interruptions. Proper sizing of gas piping is critical to maintaining adequate pressure and ensuring reliable and safe operation of the gas system.