Cautionary Tales: Can You Use Galvanized Pipe for Natural Gas? Here’s What You Need to Know

The question of “can you use galvanized pipe on natural gas” has been a topic of debate among plumbing professionals and homeowners alike. Galvanized pipe, once a popular choice for plumbing applications, has raised concerns about its compatibility with natural gas. This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding this topic, addressing safety concerns, code regulations, and alternative piping materials.

Safety Concerns

Galvanized pipe is coated with a layer of zinc to prevent corrosion. However, when exposed to natural gas, this zinc coating can react with the gas, forming zinc oxide and hydrogen. Zinc oxide is a white powder that can clog gas appliances and cause them to malfunction. Hydrogen, on the other hand, is a highly flammable gas that can pose a safety hazard.

Code Regulations

Building codes and industry standards have evolved over time to address the potential risks associated with using galvanized pipe on natural gas. In most jurisdictions, the use of galvanized pipe for natural gas distribution is prohibited. The International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) and the National Fuel Gas Code (NFPA 54) explicitly state that galvanized pipe should not be used for natural gas piping.

Alternatives to Galvanized Pipe

Recognizing the safety concerns and code restrictions, the plumbing industry has developed several alternative piping materials for natural gas applications. These include:

• Black iron pipe: This type of pipe is made from wrought iron and is coated with a black finish. Black iron pipe is durable and resistant to corrosion.
• Copper pipe: Copper is a non-ferrous metal that is naturally resistant to corrosion. Copper pipe is commonly used for natural gas distribution in residential and commercial buildings.
• Polyethylene (PE) pipe: PE pipe is a flexible, plastic pipe that is commonly used for underground natural gas distribution. PE pipe is lightweight, durable, and resistant to corrosion.
• Corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST): CSST is a flexible, stainless steel pipe that is used for natural gas distribution in both residential and commercial buildings. CSST is lightweight, durable, and corrosion-resistant.

When Galvanized Pipe Can Be Used

Although galvanized pipe is generally not recommended for natural gas distribution, there are limited exceptions where its use may be permitted. These exceptions include:

• Short sections (less than 6 feet): In some cases, galvanized pipe can be used for short sections of gas piping, such as for connecting appliances to a gas line.
• Temporary installations: Galvanized pipe can be used for temporary gas installations, such as for construction or testing purposes.
• Non-combustible applications: In non-combustible applications, such as outdoor gas lines, galvanized pipe may be used if it is properly protected from the elements.

Proper Installation and Maintenance

If galvanized pipe is used for natural gas distribution, it is crucial to ensure proper installation and maintenance. This includes:

• Thoroughly cleaning the pipe: Before installing galvanized pipe, it must be thoroughly cleaned to remove any zinc oxide or other contaminants.
• Using dielectric unions: Dielectric unions should be used to connect galvanized pipe to other types of piping materials, such as copper or black iron.
• Protecting the pipe from corrosion: Galvanized pipe should be protected from corrosion by applying a protective coating or by wrapping it with corrosion-resistant tape.
• Regularly inspecting the pipe: Galvanized pipe should be regularly inspected for signs of corrosion or damage.

Takeaways: Making an Informed Decision

The use of galvanized pipe on natural gas is a complex issue with safety implications. While there are limited exceptions where galvanized pipe may be used, it is generally not recommended for natural gas distribution. By understanding the safety concerns, code regulations, and alternative piping materials available, homeowners and plumbing professionals can make informed decisions about the best piping materials for their natural gas needs.

Basics You Wanted To Know

1. Why is galvanized pipe not recommended for natural gas?

Galvanized pipe can react with natural gas, forming zinc oxide and hydrogen, which can clog appliances and pose a safety hazard.

2. What are the alternatives to galvanized pipe for natural gas?

Alternatives to galvanized pipe include black iron pipe, copper pipe, polyethylene (PE) pipe, and corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST).

3. Can galvanized pipe be used for short sections of gas piping?

In some cases, galvanized pipe can be used for short sections (less than 6 feet) of gas piping, such as for connecting appliances to a gas line.

4. How do I properly install galvanized pipe for natural gas?

Thoroughly clean the pipe, use dielectric unions, protect the pipe from corrosion, and regularly inspect the pipe.