My point exactly.
I clipped the image based on my memory of the code, not looking up the code.
The google image search I used confirmed my pre-existing bias
That was my mistake, and my mistake alone, and why I posted.
Note: This was an enforcement case:
so please no shit about not being a code inspector. I was being paid to inspect to identify steps needed to cure the enforcement case.
That said the professional plumber called out is ultimately the one responsible for delivering a repair that passes inspection.
If a material is listed in the plumbing codes, it means that it meets the minimum standards and requirements set by the code for safety and performance. However, it doesn’t always mean that it is the best or most recommended material for every situation.
Plumbing codes are designed to ensure safety and functionality, but there might be other materials that are more suitable depending on specific circumstances, preferences, or advancements in technology. It’s always a good idea to refer to the latest industry standards and best practices for the most appropriate material for your project.
Lesson to all that it would have been best to simply state "Have a proper sediment trap installed by a qualifed plumber at X." Add a picture of the item without a sediment trap and let it go!
An irony in this case. The plumber in this exact case ended up with blocked burner on one of the old heaters: was unwilling or unable to clean or repair the burner, so the client ended up having to buy a new tank.
The mistake was “clipping an outdated illustration” and validating my own memory of code with a google image search, which confirmed my preexisting bias. As google searches tend to do.
A code compliance inspection is done after an owner is cited, or concerned they will be cited, for past construction done without permits. This is very common in my area because of rent control, with granny flats and basement conversions done without permits. It’s not a “home inspection” as defined by the Nachi SOP.
In my area galvanized was not recommended decades ago.
But now, supposedly due to better technology and quality control on galvanized pipe, it’s back to being OK. YMMV.
That said: I personally prefer to see black pipe, only because it’s a form of color coding. Black pipe means it’s not a water line. My area has many galvanized water lines and it gets confusing to figure out what’s what.
The code says:
IRC G2414.4.2 (403.4.2) Steel. Steel and wrought-iron pipe shall
be at least of standard weight (Schedule 40) and shall comply
with one of the following:
ASME B 36.10, 10M;
ASTM A 53/A 53M; or
ASTM A 106. Official commentary: Steel pipe must be Schedule 40 or heavier, must comply
with one of the listed standards and can be black
iron or galvanized. Contrary to popular belief, natural
gas does not adversely react with the zinc coating on
galvanized pipe."
Again check your local codes, which is where this thread started.
I was reporting my mistake in using my memory, googling to illustrate my memory, and getting an old image. Because google works like that confirming pre-existing beliefs. And the Internet does not forget.
I should have looked up the current CPC code on the spot, taken the extra time to get it right. But frankly even for that I could have gotten it wrong. Code is complex: maybe your memory is perfect, mine is not.
Thanks, I’m just splitting hairs to see where others stand on it. I do remember my instructor mentioning the chipping. I have it as an informational item, "although not a deficiency, … "
I just write it up as a deficiency and “recommend it be corrected to prevent debris inherent to natural gas from being drawn into the burner and causing damage.”
I’ve never used any images showing something as correct. Seems to me this just starts down the road of having homeowners or other unskilled people do the repairs. If the “guy” doing the works needs your schematic to do it right, he’s the wrong guy (I’ve said that so many times to agents calling me to ask about my report it’s not even funny).
I agree the schematics are nice and convey information but I guess I just feel it can lead us to trouble. I’m not at all saying you’re wrong for doing it. It’s a good discussion in any case.
The zinc coating in modern galvanized pipe does not flake off in gas pipe and hence the reason it is allowed for use as a gas pipe these days. Some communities like Colorado Springs, no longer require sediment traps or drip legs at all.
Man…I know what you are saying, but this is not a mistake to beat yourself over. The illustration is only outdated for California. That illustration is legal here. It is not only brutally difficult to keep up with every code change every three years, but add to that the way local AHJs interpret code or add to code or ignore code. I have told the story here several times where my electrician had the NEC open. He says to the city inspector, “See I did it right.” The city inspector says, “Yes, you did. But we are going to do it my way.”
I’ve been asleep for 8 years: When you changed the title of your thread I thought you finally woke up to the fact that lamestream media is fake news propaganda.
Hopefully everyone figures it out soon.
