CSST - Frequently Asked Questions

What is CSST?

CSST is a corrugated stainless-steel tubing that is a flexible and used to supply natural gas and propane in residential, commercial, and industrial facilities.

What does CSST look like?

CSST is often coated with a yellow or black exterior plastic coating. CSST should not be confused with flexible gas appliance connectors.

What are the chances of my house being struck by lightning?

The behavior of lightning is 100% random and unpredictable. Any location can experience lightning anytime. In general, there are 4,400 lightning fires to residential homes in the United States each year, so there would be a very small chance of a lightning fire. However, the lightning density varies across the United States, and other factors can affect your chances. For example, a house on a tall hill without any nearby trees would be more likely to be struck by lightning and have a fire.

Is direct bonding required by gas and electrical codes?

Yes and No. “Direct” bonding means that a dedicated bonding wire is ran from the gas piping service entrance to the electrical grounding system. According to the National Fuel Gas Code and the International Fuel Gas Code, CSST must be bonded to the building’s electrical ground using a minimum 6-AWG wire. In addition, the National Electrical Code (NEC) allows the use of the equipment grounding conductor to serve as the bonding wire and all CSST manufacturers require the installation of a 6-AWG bonding wire to the building’s electrical ground.

What are the benefits of CSST piping?

In addition to durability, CSST is flexible so that it can be snaked through walls. CSST also reduces the number of fittings needed at the end of each run which reduces the opportunity for leakage.

If I have CSST in my home, how can I determine that it has been grounded properly?

If you have CSST in your home or business, you should determine if the fuel gas piping system is bonded and grounded. This requirement will include the attachment of a bonding clamp and bonding wire to the gas piping system. For assistance with this, please consult with our office at 972-771-9464.

Why is it important to ground my CSST?

Bonding and grounding are designed to prevent a possible electric shock to people who come in contact with the gas piping and other metal objects connected to the grounding system. Proper grounding will also reduce the risk of damage and fire from a lightning strike.

What is the difference between CSST and flexible gas appliance connectors?

CSST should NOT be confused with flexible gas appliance connectors. The difference is that flexible connectors attach directly to a moveable appliance from the wall or floor. CSST is usually routed inside wall cavities and on top of ceiling joists in attic spaces.

What are the effects of lightning on CSST?

Lightning can be extremely destructive. Even if a structure is not directly hit systems within the structure can become electrically energized. This power surge can possibly puncture a hole in CSST and cause a fire. By having your CSST professionally grounded you will prevent damage to your home and protect your loved ones.

Why is it important to ground and bond my CSST?

Bonding is designed to prevent electric shock should you come in contact with the gas piping connected to the grounding system. The electrical surge from lightning strikes can cause a hole punctured in CSST. Professional bonding and grounding reduces the risk of damage from a lightning strike.

We hope that this Q & A page has been helpful to you. At Barney’s Electric, "Your future is looking brighter!" To learn more about CSST and grounding of CSST, please contact Barneys Electric at 972-771-9464. For your convenience, you may also request services from this site.