Because they can be bent, some gas connectors - especially older ones - eventually can crack. If that happens, gas will leak out, possibly causing a fire or explosion. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission warns that if your appliance was installed with a flexible brass connector that doesn't have a plastic or epoxy coating, you need to replace it. Or, if the connector on your appliance is at least 10 years old, it may be a good idea to replace it anyway, regardless of its type.

Existing Appliances

• Replace any brass connectors that don't have a plastic or epoxy coating with ones certified by the American Gas Association (AGA) that meet American National Standard Institute (ANSI) Standard Z21.24 - this will be marked on the connectors.

• Check your connectors periodically to see if there's any corrosion. If there is, replace them. You may need to dust off a grayish-white powdery residue caused by detergent cleaning solvents, ammonia or cooking grease.

• You may not be able to see them easily, but built-in ranges and cook-top models also have gas connectors. Locate them and check them periodically.

New Appliances
When you replace an appliance, always install a new connector (one that's AGA certified and meets ANSI Standard Z21.24).

• Install the connector where nobody will step, sit, lean or put a heavy object on it.

• Never install a connector through a wall, floor or ceiling.

• Use one connector for each appliance.

• Your connector should be no more than 6 feet long.

• Install a shutoff valve on the house piping in front of the connector.