Advantages of Copper

Key advantages of using copper for fuel gas distribution systems include:
  • Lowest overall installed system cost for fuel gas applications
  • Lowest cost material amongst flexible materials
  • Easiest system to install
  • Large labor savings over black steel pipe
  • Ideally also suited for retro-fit and remodeling applications
  • Cost-effective for both low and high pressure systems
  • Material certified to an ASTM standard
  • Approved by national and international codes - National Fuel Gas Code, and International Mechanical Code and International Plumbing Code
  • No special tools or manufacturer-specific training needed - can be installed with the tools and skills the installer already has
  • Backed by technical and field support by the CDA throughout the country
  • Semi-rigid material
  • Universal availability throughout North America
  • Lighter than black steel pipe

Modern residential units use many kinds of gas equipment and appliances. Clean, efficient heating may be achieved by a central furnace or individual room heaters. Central systems frequently have provision for air conditioning. Gas-fired water heaters, noted for their quick recovery rates, are available. Other items could include cooking ranges, ovens, clothes dryers, gas fireplaces, gas barbecues and decorative lighting.

Homeowners, housing developers, builders, installation contractors and gas companies all benefit when copper tube is chosen for the fuel gas distribution system. Copper's main advantages are flexibility (particularly in confined spaces), resistance to corrosion, easy joining and its availability in long lengths. Lengths of up to 100 feet are standard, with longer lengths available on request.

These factors lead to an easier, cleaner, less time-consuming installation and lower costs. For single-family dwellings, copper is often the least expensive installation. In multistory residences, the use of copper gas distribution systems can make the installation cost of natural gas service competitive with that of electricity for heating, laundry and cooking applications.

Owners of condominium units and tenants of rental apartments are often responsible for payment for their individual utility services. Copper tube readily makes vertical subdivision more cost effective because it allows the gas utility to group individual meters without the cost and typical problems associated with piping in such compact configurations.

With careful planning and using long lengths of copper tube, all the joints usually contained in walls, floors and ceilings may be eliminated. And, fewer joints mean improved safety. Long lengths, compact dimensions and ease of joining are particularly important advantages of copper for retrofit systems. For present gas consumers, copper tube offers maximum ease of installation when they wish to add gas equipment and appliances.

For example, fuel gas can be supplied to fireplaces located virtually anywhere in a home quickly and economically without the difficulties associated with threaded pipe.

When direct venting or induced draft techniques are used, gas fireplace installation in single-family and multistory units is simplified further because a conventional chimney is not required.