Flexible Gas Line for Gas Fireplace

[kaplanmd]

I am installing a gas insert in my wood fireplace that requires bringing the gas line all the way around the house. One plumber wants to use the standard Iron and the other a flexible yellow gas line. From my research the flexible is rated to -100 degrees which is more than enough for where I live in Alaska but the other plumber says it is more likely to harm being outside. It will be attached to the house about 5 feet off the ground. It is much cheaper.

what do you think?

Alaska Guy

[LazyPup]

You would need to begin by checking with your local code authority.

CSST (Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing) is a realitively new product in the plumbing industry and it has not as of yet received full code approval in all areas.

The International Residential Code lists it as approved but they have not yet established a full set of installation specifications. Instead the code says it must be installed in full compliance with the manufacturers instructions. IRC-2414.5.3

The Uniform Plumbing Code has not yet adopted CSST, however many local jurisdictions under the UPC have approved it.

I checked the manufacturers recommendations and could not find any references to the climatic conditions.

The manufacturers instructions do state that when CSST is run on the exterior of a structure it must be protected from physical damage and when run from grade zero to an elevation of 6' above grade it must be run through a conduit to protect the CSST pipe from physical damage.

Both the codes and manufacturers specification state that when run under a slab or structure it must be run through a conduit that is sealed on both ends and the conduit must have a vent to atmosphere at least 6" above grade on the outside of the structure.

The vent must rise vertically above grade, then be turned 180deg downward to prevent rainwater from entering the conduit. The opening of the vent must remain at least 6" above grade.

The ASTM (American Society of Testing & Maeterials) states that when running CSST all fittings and connectors MUST BE made by the same manufacturer as the CSST pipe material.

[kaplanmd]

Thanks. From my internet search I found Gastite, that looked like what he was using. I didn't ask him the brand, but here is a link to the specs that show the temp allowance:

http://www.gastite.com/engspecs.php?pg=csst&idlink=link4

The info you gave about protection and the vertical rise was very interesting. I will speak with the plumber about that info.

thanks again.

Alaska Guy