I want to run some new copper tubing from my tank outside to the floor heater under my house. Currently I have 3/8" tubing in place that has been there since probably late 80's to early 90's. I bought a 50 ft coil of 3/8" O.D. from Lowes. I asked the sales kid what type it was and he told me that it was Type L. From what I've read Type L is acceptable for fuel oil. My roommate is questioning the label on the box because it says "Refrigeration 3/8" x 50 ft".

So does this sound like I got the proper tubing even though it says "Refrigeration" on the box?

Shades

 

Yes.... type L copper is approved for use with fuel oil transfer.

 

Thanks PJMax!

One last question, my roommate insists that it should be 3/8" I.D. whereas I have 3/8" O.D. that the walls of the tubing is thinner and the I.D walls are thicker and better for fuel oil. Is there any reason I shouldn't use what I have or return it and exchange it for I.D. 3/8"?

Shades

 

See if this chart helps some..... the OD remains constant for 3/8" copper.
Type L is commonly used for oil tanks.

 

So the chart is saying that the wall thickness on a 3/8" O.D. is 0.500 which is actually thicker than the I.D. of 0.430?

Hopefully last question. I appreciate your expertise.

Shades

 

No... it's saying that with 3/8" copper pipe.... the OD is always .500

The ID and the wall thickness depends on type of pipe.

 

3/8 inch copper tubing as used with refrigeration and fuel oil systems is 3/8 inch outside diameter. Tubing is always measured by its outside diameter. 1/2 inch nominal copper water piping is 5/8 inch outside diameter.

 

I removed my incorrect chart. It was incorrectly in the place of standard copper tubing not roll tubing.

Thanks for the correction... Furd

 

Thank you so much for your time and expertise Furd and PJMax!


Shades

 

So use the 3/8 soft roll copper and all will be good. Make sure the pipe is clean at the compression fittings.

 

Flared fittings, PJ. Never use compression fittings with fuel oil. And use only Permatex number two goop on any pipe threads.