Is this a correct heater installation?
#1
10-22-20, 08:22 AM
Is this a correct heater installation?
I've raised this issue with the contractor who installed the furnace for us, but everything I see and read indicates this isn't quite right. He's saying the drip leg shown in the pictures is sufficient while everything I've read states a sediment trap should be installed downstream from the shutoff and as near the appliance as practical. Here is the install:
#2
10-22-20, 08:26 AM
Member
I agree with you. But what does local codes call for?
You might call the gas company and ask them what they recommend.
Edit: found this on the internet..."A drip leg can be installed anywhere at the low point in the piping system, if there is moisture in the gas to allow for the removal of the condensation. The outlet of the meter is one such location. Sediment traps are usually installed very close to the water heater or furnace valve."
Is the drip leg at the low point? If it is then he is OK.
this is the typical install
You might call the gas company and ask them what they recommend.
Edit: found this on the internet..."A drip leg can be installed anywhere at the low point in the piping system, if there is moisture in the gas to allow for the removal of the condensation. The outlet of the meter is one such location. Sediment traps are usually installed very close to the water heater or furnace valve."
Is the drip leg at the low point? If it is then he is OK.
this is the typical install
#3
10-22-20, 08:40 AM
Thanks for the reply, but the drip leg shown is 12' up in the ceiling certainly not at any low point.
I'm reluctant to get the local gas company involved for several reasons, hard to explain. I'm not sure I could get a technician from the local to respond.
I'm reluctant to get the local gas company involved for several reasons, hard to explain. I'm not sure I could get a technician from the local to respond.
#4
10-22-20, 09:00 AM
Member
Show your plumber this post and see what he has to say.
However, I doubt it makes much difference. The chances of a problem is slim to none. The flow of gas is fast enough that any particulates or moisture will most likely bypass the drip leg anyways. And the gas from your supplier is very well dried and clean. I worry more about pipe debris from flaking being brought into the system.
My opinion, don't worry about it.
However, I doubt it makes much difference. The chances of a problem is slim to none. The flow of gas is fast enough that any particulates or moisture will most likely bypass the drip leg anyways. And the gas from your supplier is very well dried and clean. I worry more about pipe debris from flaking being brought into the system.
My opinion, don't worry about it.
#5
10-22-20, 09:10 AM
Thanks Norm but my communication with this guy is just annoying. He is the master of double speak and not answering the simplest of questions. I've just asked him to respond yes or no if there should be a sediment trap located next to the heater downstream from the shutoff. He skirts the question, gives replies that have nothing to do with the question and it's just annoying. I should probably let it go as you suggest.
#6
10-22-20, 04:45 PM
Group Moderator
From the 2019 Ohio fuel gas codes.............
G2419.4 Where a sediment trap is not incorporated as part of the appliance, a sediment trap shall be installed downstream of the appliance shutoff valve as close to the inlet of the appliance as practical. The sediment trap shall be either a tee fitting having a capped nipple of any length installed vertically in the bottom most opening of the tee or other device approved as an effective sediment trap. Illuminating appliances, ranges, clothes dryers, decorative vented appliances for installation in vented fireplaces, gas fireplaces and outdoor grills need not be so equipped.
That existing drip leg is borderline protection from debris getting into the gas valve/regulator.
I would request a properly installed sediment trap be installed.
You could almost call that "S" in the flexible line as a trap.
G2419.4 Where a sediment trap is not incorporated as part of the appliance, a sediment trap shall be installed downstream of the appliance shutoff valve as close to the inlet of the appliance as practical. The sediment trap shall be either a tee fitting having a capped nipple of any length installed vertically in the bottom most opening of the tee or other device approved as an effective sediment trap. Illuminating appliances, ranges, clothes dryers, decorative vented appliances for installation in vented fireplaces, gas fireplaces and outdoor grills need not be so equipped.
That existing drip leg is borderline protection from debris getting into the gas valve/regulator.
I would request a properly installed sediment trap be installed.
You could almost call that "S" in the flexible line as a trap.
