Copper pipe for gas feed to water heater

John Martino · 08-10-2009, 02:55 PM

I have gone back and fourth with the issue of copper pipe being installed as a feed pipe to a water heater or other gas fired applience. I recommend replacement with standard black gas pipe in order to avoid gas leakage. I think the issue is the corrosion of the interior of the copper pipe caused by additives in the natural gas. This corrosion can cause leaks and foul the gas valves. In most cases where I see this, the pipes are crimped because they were bent into place by a non-professional. That aside when is copper ok to use at gas connections?
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Dennis Krouse · 08-10-2009, 03:48 PM

In Florida we use NFPA codes which allow copper pipe for appliance connections. Any time one is crimped the integrity of the pipe has been weakened and should be replaced. Since its allowed here what I do is recommend an appliance connecter for replacement. Some water heaters have a sediment trap built in to the valve so I would check that also. Hope this helped!

**Jim Luttrall** · 08-10-2009, 03:58 PM

"G2414.5.2 (403.5.2) Copper tubing. Copper tubing shall comply with standard Type K or L of ASTM B 88 or ASTM B 280.

Copper and brass tubing shall not be used if the gas contains more than an average of 0.3 grains of hydrogen sulfide per 100 standard cubic feet of gas (0.7 milligrams per 100 liters)."

This is from an earlier thread
http://www.inspectionnews.net/home_i...-gas-line.html

Dennis Krouse · 08-10-2009, 05:17 PM

Standard refridgeration tubing sold at most supply outlets meet this criteria. I would still recommend replacing with rated appliance connector. Its a quick fix and not worth the risk.

**Randy Aldering** · 08-11-2009, 10:35 AM

Flexible copper tubing, or ridged? No sweat joints - compression only. Flexible, not ridged. And the gas has to have acceptable H2S levels. The H2S levels can be determined by contacting the utility.