Should a Gas Line Going Into a Central Heating Unit Be Grounded?

Grounds

• A proper ground directs electricity away from where it is not supposed to be and moves it to where it can discharge safely. A traditional lightning rod is an example. Homes use an alternating current electrical system, which requires a ground to be safe. Generally, other metal throughout the home that may come into contact with electricity should be grounded also. This is usually done through the main electrical breaker panel.

Codes

• The codes concerning the grounding of gas lines is controlled by several sources, with the National Fuel Gas Code (NFPA) 54.and the National Electrical Code being the main two. According to the "Electrical Construction & Maintenance" magazine website, differences between the two as of 2011 cause many people to be uncertain as to what exactly is required. Part of the problem is caused by two different definitions of the word "grounding." It takes careful reading to know when grounding means bonding, or creating a path for the electricity to flow, or when it means diverting electricity to a safe place.

CSST

• Section 250.104(B) of the National Electrical Code considers a grounded electrical supply to the gas furnace to be a sufficient ground for the incoming gas pipe. However, most manufacturers of CSST piping have extra regulations concerning grounding that go above the code. Most construction since the late 1990s has CSST gas lines installed. These flexible stainless steel pipes have yellow plastic coatings and are much easier for plumbers to work with than the traditional iron pipes.

Grounding CSST

• Installation requirements for Gastite CSST mandate a ground bond regardless of whether the gas furnace has an electrical ground. The ground is placed on the manifold, or the main gas pipe where the gas enters the home. Each CSST extension from there is automatically grounded through this ground with a separate ground wire. In addition to the NFPA, NEC and manufacturer's instructions, local codes and ordinances may have their own impact as to the necessity of grounding gas lines. Always check local codes before beginning any construction work.