Gas Pipe Installation and Safety
While CSST and polyethylene pipe manufacturers make connecting the pipe and fittings relatively simple, installation is typically a job for a licensed professional. State and local codes have requirements for gas line installation, including who can install it, how it’s installed, suitable pipe types, etc. Follow the codes for your area. Manufacturers may require installers to complete training and certification before installing their products. Even though gas line installation is typically a pro-level job, it’s helpful for a homeowner to be familiar with gas line components and understand the work.
What Is CSST Gas Pipe?
CSST (corrugated stainless-steel tubing) is a type of flexible pipe that carries natural gas and liquid propane (LP) gas through home and business interiors to supply dryers, ranges, water heaters and more. CSST is not suitable for direct burial. It requires a non-metallic, watertight conduit when used outdoors or underground. Follow code and manufacturer specifications.
The ribbed metal pipe typically has a yellow plastic exterior coating or jacket. This standard type of CSST must always be bonded to a structure’s grounding system according to the manufacturer’s instructions and applicable codes. Proper bonding reduces the risk of electrical arcing caused by lightning strikes.
You’ll also see CSST with a black jacket, typically indicating increased protection against arcing. However, the colors aren’t standard across all manufacturers and don’t always guarantee arc-resistance. Check the product specifications to confirm arc resistance and bonding requirements. Some areas require arc-resistant CSST instead of standard CSST. In some locations, codes require bonding for arc-resistant CSST. If any standard CSST is used with arc-resistant CSST, the standard CSST must be bonded.
Electrical arcing can occur when a lightning strike on or near a structure causes electricity to jump from one metallic component, such as ductwork, to another, such as CSST. Arcing can damage or puncture the CSST, creating leaks and a risk of fire or explosion.
Benefits of CSST
- Requires fewer fittings than other pipe types, reducing the potential for leaks
- Relatively lightweight, making it easier to handle, transport and install than other pipe
- Easier installation around bends and obstacles than other pipe
CSST Fittings and Accessories
The right fittings and accessories allow an installer to assemble and configure CSST gas lines for just about any layout.
CSST Bonding Clamp
- Clamps to a rigid point in the CSST gas tubing, such as a metal fitting
- Allows connection of a copper wire to bond the CSST to the structure’s grounding system
CSST Compression Adapters, Couplings and Tees
- Connect two (adapter or coupling) or three (tee) components in a CSST line
- Available with internal, known as female iron pipe (FIP) or external, male iron pipe (MIP) threading, depending on the connection needed
CSST Termination Plate
- Mounts to a floor or wall
- Provides a fixed connection point for CSST supplying gas to movable appliances, like ranges and dryers
Appliance Stub Out
- Mounts to a wall to simplify CSST installation in tight spaces
- Provides a fixed point for CSST to connect to supply lines of movable appliances
Manifold
- Allows branching of the gas line to multiple areas
- Has an inlet for the CSST line on one end, multiple outlets for distribution
CSST Gas Shutoff Valve
- Allows the gas supply to be turned off to one area or appliance
- Typically required for an appliance connection
Pressure Regulator
- Controls downstream pressure to match the needs of equipment attached to the gas line
- Must match the gas type (natural gas or LP gas)
Striker Plate
- Protects CSST from punctures
- Attaches to framing components of the building or structure
Protective Conduit
- Encases sections of CSST
- Protects CSST from punctures and wear
CSST Accessories
More CSST Fittings and Accessories
- Ball Valve: Connects a CSST line to a fitting, allowing the gas to be turned off
- Gas Outlet Box: Mounts in a wall to give an appliance connection and shutoff valve a finished look
- Jacket Stripper: Drill attachment that removes CSST jacketing for fitting installation
- Tube Cutters: Cuts CSST as you rotate the tool and tighten the cutting wheel
- Test Gauge: Allows pressure testing of CSST lines
What Is Polyethylene Gas Pipe?
Polyethylene, also known as PE or poly pipe, is a flexible type of plastic pipe that carries natural gas or LP gas to grills, fire pits, pool heaters and more. Polyethylene pipe is suitable for direct burial and can be an option for underground gas lines in some areas. This pipe isn’t suitable for aboveground applications.
Benefits of Polyethylene Pipe
- Simpler installation around obstacles and reduced vulnerability to ground movement than rigid pipe
- Relatively lightweight for easier transportation and installation
- Resists damage from corrosion and environmental conditions
Polyethylene Fittings and Accessories
Like the polyethylene pipe itself, the fittings are suitable for underground use.
Polyethylene Compression Couplings, Elbows and Tees
- Connect two (coupling, elbow) or three (tee) components in an underground polyethylene gas line
- Include stiffeners for the pipe to provide a surface for the fitting nuts to seat against
Anodeless Gas Riser
- Allows an exterior gas line to transition from underground to above ground
- Connects underground polyethylene tubing to an aboveground regulator, meter outlet or pipe connection on a structure
Underground Tracer Wire or Tape
- Installs underground along a gas pipe run
- Allows aboveground location of the underground pipe
Other Accessories and Fittings for Polyethylene Pipe
- Termination Cap: Closes off runs of pipe
- Pipe Cutter: Shears that fit around and cut through polyethylene pipe
- Service Riser Bracket: Secures to a structure to support a service riser
Gas Appliance Connectors
Gas connectors are lines that install between a gas line shutoff valve and a gas appliance. A gas connection line includes several pieces:
- Appliance Connector: Flexible stainless-steel tubing with screw-on connections on each end
- Fittings: One for the appliance inlet and one for the gas line valve to allow connection of the tubing
Some kits also include thread sealant, leak detection solution and an excess flow valve (ESV). The ESV is designed to restrict gas flow if it detects a flow rate that’s abnormally high.
The appliance connector:
- Must be designed for the appliance type
- Must be rated for the energy output, measured in British thermal units (BTUs) of the appliance
- Must have fittings and threading that match the size of the shutoff valve and the appliance inlet
- Must be long enough to allow a moveable appliance to be shifted for cleaning and maintenance
- Must be suitable for the use location (indoor or outdoor)
- Never reuse fittings or connectors.
- The gas to the appliance must be shut off before an appliance is connected.
- Connection must follow all state and local codes.
Key Takeaways for CSST, Poly Pipe and Appliance Connectors
CSST is a flexible pipe designed to carry natural gas or LP gas to dryers, ranges, water heaters and other gas appliances:
- Not suitable for direct burial
- Must be bonded to the structure’s grounding system
- Must be arc-resistant in some parts of the country
Polyethylene pipe is flexible tubing for underground, exterior applications, like transporting natural gas or LP gas to outdoor appliances like fire pits, outdoor kitchens and pool heaters:
- Not suitable for aboveground use
- Must be buried to a minimum depth, according to codes
Appliance connectors run between a gas shutoff valve and a gas appliance:
- Must be suitable for the appliance type and BTU rating
- Must have fittings compatible with the shutoff valve and appliance
Shop Lowes.com for the supplies for a gas installation, from pipe to fittings to appliance connectors. Plus, our delivery options help get everything you need to your job site. Or stop by your local Lowe’s. We’ve got the materials and quantities you need to finish your installation so you can move on to the next job.