I came across a 1/4" copper line that jogs around under a crawl space and runs over 40’ to what appears to be a grill hookup outside. I assume this is not legal, but I’m having a hard time citing anything to back it up.
What about the install are you questioning?
Some municipalities allow copper tubing for gas, some do not.
And the diameter and length of the tubing needs to be rated for the appliance on the other end (BTU’s/hour).
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I guess it’s fine then. I thought for certain lengths you had to use blackpipe. It just seems odd to have this small copper line jogging around and running that long.
Thanks!
Not being adequately secured or subject to physical damage is a separate consideration.
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I know there are codes on flexpipe uses & lengths. This looks a lot more dangerous running that long
Cool, what are they?
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Cool - “The flexible connectors can’t go through walls, floors or ceilings, nor can they be concealed. The flexible connector length usually is limited to 3 feet except for gas ranges and clothes dryers. For these appliances, 6 feet generally is allowed”.
Thanks for the condescending response, it’s very helpful. Have a good Holiday!
welcome…You are going to do fine here…
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It wasn’t directed at you, but thanks
Sorry for being condescending. Is the copper pipe considered a flexible appliance connector? Because I am also curious if we are not talking about two different things here.
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My point was I’m able to find guidelines for the yellow flexpipe that seem fairly stringent, but can’t find a clear limitation on copper lines running +40’ under the house in a crawl space. It is so corroded that I can’t even read any stamping. I will just put the standard CYA comment and move on. Thank you.
I am in a similar situation from yesterday’s inspection. I have concerns with the pipe diameter, lack of pipe support, compression fittings and the the un-sleeved entrance through the brick. So despite rubbing your feathers the wrong way, there was a method to my madness. Are we talking about appliance connectors or gas pipe distribution?
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I assume mine is for a grill.
On your situation I would write: “One or more sections of copper gas supply piping were routed through and in direct contact with masonry or concrete. The piping can be damaged from abrasion. This is a potential explosion and/or fire hazard. Such pipe should be encased in a plastic sleeve when routed through masonry or concrete. The gap between sleeve and plastic should be sealed. Recommend that a qualified contractor repair per standard building practice”.
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In addition to the above from Dominic, if the line goes through a wall, it is required to be in sleeve.
305.3 Pipes through or under footings or foundation walls.
Any pipe that passes under a footing or through a foundation wall shall be provided with a relieving arch, or a pipe sleeve pipe shall be built into the foundation wall. The sleeve shall be two pipe sizes greater than the pipe passing through the wall.
I’ve always known about sleeves, but I had to look up a relieving arch. A relieving arch would have to be created while the footing is built or poured. It’s to prevent load from transferring to the pipe. I’ve seen a piece of black iron pipe cut down the middle on a band saw with the copper run under it and I suppose that qualifies as a reliving arch. I always just thought of it as a sleeve.
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