What kind of pipe can I use for propane?
Matthew Shields
Updated on April 08, 2026
What kind of pipe can I use for propane?
What pipe can be used for propane? For most propane yard lines, the piping is usually either copper tubing or plastic polyethylene piping. The materials allowed for propane gas line installation will vary from state to state. Some states do not allow copper piping.
What type of copper pipe is used for propane gas?
Types K and L copper tube (ASTM B 88) and ACR tube (ASTM B 280), up to and including 1-inch outside diameter, have been used in fuel gas systems for many years. Usually, Type L is used for interior distribution systems and Type K for any underground lines.
How do you connect copper tubing to propane?
Bury the copper pipe lines at least 12 inches underground if you use them for an outside application. Bury the lines at least 18 inches underground if there is or may be vehicle traffic above them. Attach the modified or new propane line to the tank, and turn on the gas.
Can I use plastic pipe for propane?
Only approved materials and fittings are to be used for any part of a propane gas service line. Materials such as PVC, rubber hose and flex lines are illegal and are not to be used in any part of the gas service line.
Can you use PVC pipe for propane?
The propane yard line generally consists of copper tubing or plastic polyethylene piping. Only approved materials and fittings are to be used for any part of a propane gas service line. Materials such as PVC, rubber hose and flex lines are illegal and are not to be used in any part of the gas service line.
Can I use soft copper for propane?
It’s very common to use either hard-drawn or soft-drawn copper for gas, whether natural gas or propane.
What is the difference between Type K and Type L copper pipe?
Type L is considered the most common type of copper piping, as it can be used in many more applications than Type K. Flexible Type L copper can be used to repair or replace old water lines, although rigid tubing is more durable. Type L copper is thinner than Type K but thicker than type M.
Can compression fittings be used for propane?
Compression fittings in a gas piping system are not permitted unless allowed by the authority having jurisdiction. All tube fittings for natural gas installations are rated at more than 125 psig, but should not be used at pressures beyond those allowed by local codes.
Can stainless steel be used for propane?
The gas piping is known as corrugated stainless steel tubing, or “yellow CSST.” CSST is a flexible, stainless steel pipe used to supply natural gas and propane in residential, commercial and industrial structures.
Can you run your own propane line?
Yes in most jurisdictions you can. It’s a very good DIY project and it can be done very safely. First you need to obtain the proper permit. Install the piping with a pressure test on the pipe and get an inspection to approve the installation.
What is the difference between Type L and M copper?
You may be surprised to find two types of copper pipe on the home center shelf, Type L and Type M. The difference is the wall thickness of the copper pipe sizes and therefore the pressure it can handle. The exterior dimensions are identical, meaning you use the same copper fittings.
What kind of copper tubing is used for propane gas?
Copper tubing should only be used for propane (LPG) gas, and NOT natural gas. FLARE or solder fittings only, NO compression (ferrule) fittings. Likewise, what is the difference between L and M copper pipe? When to use Type L and Type M copper pipe sizes But for normal “in the wall” household plumbing, Type M copper pipe is just fine.
What kind of pipes do you need for propane tank?
For instance, many places outlaw the use of copper pipes for gas connections. The one quality you should prioritize while shopping for pipes is malleability. You may have to navigate some corners to connect the appliance to the tank. It would be helpful if the pipes you purchased can be bent to some degree.
Can a copper service line be used with propane?
Copper Benefits. Copper offers a relatively inexpensive material for service line composition. Copper has the ability to be formed in long service line coils. This flexible copper can easily install around obstacles between the propane tank and the house, as opposed to black pipe which requires 90-degree turns for maneuvering around an obstruction.
What kind of copper pipe do you need for a well?
But check with your building inspector; some areas require Type L. Acidic water with a pH of 7 or less can be hard on copper pipe. If you have a well and find out from testing that the water is acidic, you may want to use the thicker-wall Type L pipe; better yet, use “plastic” CPVC pipe and fittings.
What is the best pipe for underground water line?
Copper Pipes. Plumbers often use copper to connect underground water service lines. Although copper pipes are rigid and resistant to corrosion, copper pipes deteriorate under certain soil conditions.
What size pipe for propane?
In many cases, a home piped for propane may need to be re-piped with larger lines for natural gas. Generally, propane distribution lines have only a half-inch inside diameter, but natural gas lines need to have at least a 3/4 inch inside diameter to deliver an equivalent amount of natural gas.
What is copper tubing?
Copper tubing is most often used for the supply of hot and cold tap water, and as a refrigerant line in HVAC systems. There are two basic types of copper tubing, soft copper and rigid copper. Copper tubing is joined using flare connection, compression connection, or solder.
What is propane gas line?
The propane gas service line (also known as the LPG yard line) that runs between the tank and the structure housing the gas appliances is the service piping. Typically, the propane yard line consists of copper tubing or plastic polyethylene piping.