Propane Safety
Buried Lines & Pressure Reduction
A B
C
In this illustration, a new propane tank and connection to a
wall-hung instantaneous water heater show some of the key
safety procedures required. All installations should follow
manufacturers’ instructions, all local codes and adhere to the
procedures described in NFPA 58-Liquified Petroleum Gas Code.
A: The high pressure (10 PSI) regulator on the tank feeds the
house through direct burial corrugated stainless steel tubing
(CSST) specifically approved for underground installation. The
tubing must be buried a minimum of 12 inches; however, if the
tubing will pass under a driveway or any other area where a
motor vehicle may drive over it, the minimum is then 18 inches.
B: As the line enters the house, the pressure must be dropped
to a maximum of 5 PSI. The pressure regulator shown in this
installation reduces the pressure to 2 PSI.
C: At the water heater, an additional reduction of pressure is
required down to 0.5 PSI. This Maxitrol regulator also contains
a vent limiter to prevent a release of propane into the house.
The regulator must be installed horizontally, level and upright,
according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
The CSST inside the house is bonded (grounded) back to the
home's electrical panel for protection from lightning strikes
and other hazards.
A sediment trap captures any debris that may have entered
the system.
Photos and descriptions courtesy of Alan Carver and Fogel’s Fuel, Nazareth, PA
22 ICM/September/October 2022