Adding a gas line for my BBQ. - Page 2

**Chris** · 03-09-2010, 05:07 PM

I have delt with copper alot (I am a pipeline contractor and do all the big stuff) and I have flare tools 3/4" and up but like you said it is 200 bucks for that 50' roll and that is cheap, I think copper has gone up lately anyway so I will definitly look into that coated pipe. Thanks.

**Mr_David** · 03-10-2010, 12:56 AM

I'd check with you local Bldg Dept on the use of copper for gas. Here in San Diego area copper is never used.
You cannot use black iron pipe outside. Inspector nailed me for an existing exterior exposed black iron nipple on a job. You need to run Galvinized exposed on the wall.
The best pipe to use under ground is Polyethelene. You'll have to get 2 transition risers and bury it with 18" of cover. The Poly pipe has to be fused with special tools but once in should last almost forever.
Epoxy Coated steel pipe is another option but you have to wrap all the joints. If not wrapped properly the steel can rot out.
Used to be able to use CPVC (yellow) but they outlawed it because the fittings were not CPVC.
You sholud also have a valve at or near point of connection to the house so you can isolate it if you have a problem. Unions are not allowed except near the connection to an appliance. The correct way to connect the ground line is with a left/right nipple & coupling.
I can go on & on.

I'm not sure about the copper but I think there is something that is added to natural gas that reacts with the copper. I'll check into it. That would be an easy way to go though.
Propane is a different story.
I see a lot of applications where copper tubing is used with propane

**havasu** · 03-10-2010, 01:34 AM

Kilroy, What you wrote is exactly why I wanted to be involved with this forum. I've learned alot and really appreciate it, and it's not even my thread!

**Chris** · 03-10-2010, 01:58 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kilroy

I'd check with you local Bldg Dept on the use of copper for gas. Here in San Diego area copper is never used.
You cannot use black iron pipe outside. Inspector nailed me for an existing exterior exposed black iron nipple on a job. You need to run Galvinized exposed on the wall.
The best pipe to use under ground is Polyethelene. You'll have to get 2 transition risers and bury it with 18" of cover. The Poly pipe has to be fused with special tools but once in should last almost forever.
Epoxy Coated steel pipe is another option but you have to wrap all the joints. If not wrapped properly the steel can rot out.
Used to be able to use CPVC (yellow) but they outlawed it because the fittings were not CPVC.
You sholud also have a valve at or near point of connection to the house so you can isolate it if you have a problem. Unions are not allowed except near the connection to an appliance. The correct way to connect the ground line is with a left/right nipple & coupling.
I can go on & on.

I'm not sure about the copper but I think there is something that is added to natural gas that reacts with the copper. I'll check into it. That would be an easy way to go though.
Propane is a different story.
I see a lot of applications where copper tubing is used with propane

I know what you are talking about with the Poly pipe I am even certified for butt fusion, I am just looking for an inexpensive easy route for this small project but it may be poly. I was hoping for something I can grab from lowes and toss together on a saturday morning that and even though I am certified I am not all that confident in fusion since I have only done it a handful of times.

**Reedwalker** · 03-10-2010, 12:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kilroy

I'm not sure about the copper but I think there is something that is added to natural gas that reacts with the copper. I'll check into it.

No problems there. Here in Michigan it's common practice to run natural gas in copper. It's quite convenient when connecting a dryer or BBQ.

**Mr_David** · 03-13-2010, 05:06 PM

Okay Did a google search and this is what I got.
I was right. The additive to allow you to smell the gas is corrosive to copper but they have reduced the amount according to this.
But do the research and check local codes you maybe Okay to use.
Corrosive additive in Natural gas
CCBDA: Natural Gas
Copper.org: Applications: Fuel Gas