Fireplaces, Heating Stoves, Flues and Chimneys - Placement of gas pipe for gas fireplace?
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sk81299
06-28-04, 08:28 AM
I am planning to have a direct vent gas (LP) fireplace installed in my cabin. The propane tank is located on the opposite side of the cabin from where I would like the fireplace installed. The cabin has no basement, but is built above ground on 8" x 8" posts. Should the copper gas line run around the perimiter of the cabin or should it run under the cabin? I am a bit worried about rabbits, etc., possibly gnawing on the copper tubing if it is placed under the cabin and causing a leak. Is there a code regarding this? The fireplace would be approximately 16 feet (the width of the cabin) plus 10 feet (the distance of the tank from the other side of the cabin) from the propane tank. It would be difficult to bury the pipe under the cabin as the cabin is only about 12 inches above ground.
Gas-repairs4U
06-30-04, 05:45 AM
Dear sk81299,
Sounds like an excellent project! As far as running a gas line under the cabin, you have options, and here is what I would do... Instead of running copper, you can install black iron pipe, usually done by a plumber or gas tech. Run the pipe just inside on the underneath of the cabin (towards the outside wall) so you don't have to crawl underneath the cabin to far. If this is not feasible, burying the copper in the ground, or running it around the outside perimeter would be sufficient. If using copper tubing, with a btu load of 35,000, you can use 1/2" copper within a 40' run on propane. We don't deal much with rabbits here in Maine, but have yet to see any animal chew through copper. Good luck with your project.
Sincerely,
Aaron B.
Sounds like an excellent project! As far as running a gas line under the cabin, you have options, and here is what I would do... Instead of running copper, you can install black iron pipe, usually done by a plumber or gas tech. Run the pipe just inside on the underneath of the cabin (towards the outside wall) so you don't have to crawl underneath the cabin to far. If this is not feasible, burying the copper in the ground, or running it around the outside perimeter would be sufficient. If using copper tubing, with a btu load of 35,000, you can use 1/2" copper within a 40' run on propane. We don't deal much with rabbits here in Maine, but have yet to see any animal chew through copper. Good luck with your project.
Sincerely,
Aaron B.
Sharp Advice
06-30-04, 06:42 AM
Hello: sk81299
The installation all depends upon what the local codes allow and or do not allow. Best to check with the local city, county and or safety department in that area.
Based on what you described, the assumption is being made that no other propane gas appliances already exist in the cabin. Thus there is no other place to obtain a supply of gas from. (Existing line to tap into)
If the above is correct, likely the propane gas supplier might offer some helpful tips, advice or a contractor to ask how any current cabins have the supply lines installed, etc.
If there are other appliances already installed, the supply line has to be already sized for the additional btu load. If no other appliances are currently installed, may be a good idea to have the new line sized for the potential of adding other gas appliances.
Iron or steel line run under the house (cabin) is an excellent idea for safety. Local codes likely to apply for any type of installation. Installing the copper line inside a PVC line may be legal or to code for under cabin installation.
Underground piping, in some areas, must be wrap protected or green wrapped pipe. In some areas, PCV (not PVC) pipe is code. PCV does not corrode or rust when installed properly. Same applies to wrapped iron or steel. Check with local codes again.
Safe and proper installation of gas lines is of prime importance for safety, meeting local codes and homeowners insurance, if any applies.
The installation all depends upon what the local codes allow and or do not allow. Best to check with the local city, county and or safety department in that area.
Based on what you described, the assumption is being made that no other propane gas appliances already exist in the cabin. Thus there is no other place to obtain a supply of gas from. (Existing line to tap into)
If the above is correct, likely the propane gas supplier might offer some helpful tips, advice or a contractor to ask how any current cabins have the supply lines installed, etc.
If there are other appliances already installed, the supply line has to be already sized for the additional btu load. If no other appliances are currently installed, may be a good idea to have the new line sized for the potential of adding other gas appliances.
Iron or steel line run under the house (cabin) is an excellent idea for safety. Local codes likely to apply for any type of installation. Installing the copper line inside a PVC line may be legal or to code for under cabin installation.
Underground piping, in some areas, must be wrap protected or green wrapped pipe. In some areas, PCV (not PVC) pipe is code. PCV does not corrode or rust when installed properly. Same applies to wrapped iron or steel. Check with local codes again.
Safe and proper installation of gas lines is of prime importance for safety, meeting local codes and homeowners insurance, if any applies.