Can You Use Galvanized Pipe For Propane? (Find Out Now!)

Jessica Vaillancourt
by Jessica Vaillancourt

Installing a propane heating system is not a simple process. You need to hire a professional propane company, figure out where the propane tank will be installed, and choose the type of piping to be used for the line. There are many things to consider. From PEX to black iron to copper, there are many different piping options. You might be thinking, can you use galvanized pipe for propane lines?

The answer is possibly. In most US states, galvanized pipes can be used for propane. But it’s important for homeowners to know their local codes. Because of potential issues with the zinc coating of galvanized pipes, some states have banned the use of galvanized piping for gas lines. You should consider more affordable and reliable alternatives.

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What is Galvanized Pipe?

Galvanized pipes are steel pipes that have a protective zinc coating to prevent rust and corrosion. Galvanized pipes were most commonly used for plumbing systems in homes between the 1880s and 1980s. They have also been used for natural gas lines, typically above ground and outdoors. There are also ways to connect galvanized pipes without threads, which is a benefit to some.

Many older homes constructed between the 1880s and 1980s will have galvanized pipes in their plumbing systems. This type of piping needs to be replaced every 50 years or so. Because of this, it may be a good idea to check if your older home has galvanized piping water lines. If it does, you might want to consider replacing it with a safer alternative.

Why is Galvanized Piping Banned in Some States?

Some states have banned the use of galvanized piping for water and natural gas lines. This is due to the negative reaction certain substances have when coming into contact with the pipe’s zinc coating. Here are the two biggest reasons some states do not allow galvanized piping:

  • Hard water reacts poorly with the zinc coating on galvanized pipes. Galvanized piping in old plumbing systems has seen a number of issues. When hard water comes in contact with the zinc coating on the pipes, it reacts poorly. Rust can build up fast. Erosion will also occur in the pipe, developing pinholes that can eventually explode. If the water in your home uses galvanized piping, you may want to consider replacing it.
  • Sulfur in certain natural gases reacts poorly with the zinc coating. While galvanized piping for propane is up to code in many states, some still do not allow it. This is because 40 years ago, the quality of natural gases like propane was much different. Historically, certain substances in gases, such as sulfurs, reacted badly with the zinc coating. The zinc would chip off and clog the orifices. But propane is much more reliable in the present day. If your state allows it, you should not be overly concerned about these dangers.

How To Tell If You Have Galvanized Piping

The easiest way to identify galvanized piping in your home is to call in a professional. If this piping was installed for your plumbing system, you might spot them under sinks, behind toilets, in attics, or on top of the water heater. If you want to figure it out on your own, look for a gray steel appearance. They are also the only magnetic type of piping.

Pros and Cons of Galvanized Pipes

If you’re not sure if you can use galvanized piping for propane, call your local propane company to verify. Then explore the pros and cons of galvanized pipes to make your decision easier.

Pros of Galvanized Pipes

  • Made of rugged material that should last.
  • Designed to prevent corrosion and rusting when not negatively reacting to other substances.

Cons of Galvanized Pipes

  • The zinc coating reacts badly to hard water, causing rust.
  • The zinc coating reacts badly to some natural gases.
  • Zinc coating can flake off and corrode or clog pipes.
  • More expensive than other types of piping.

Best Piping to Use for Propane Gas Line

The closest substitute to galvanized piping is black iron or steel pipes. Black steel is more affordable than galvanized, and doesn’t run the risk of flaky zinc clogging the orifices. There are also cheaper, more reliable options, such as plastic polyethylene. Among these are:

  • Black steel pipes. Black steel pipes are sturdy and have a similar reliability to galvanized pipes, but without the risks associated with the zinc coating. 
  • Copper pipes. Copper pipes are high quality and will last a long time, but they are expensive. Some states also do not allow copper piping for propane, so check your local codes.
  • Plastic polyethylene tubing. This is the most commonly used piping for propane, and is a universally good choice. It’s affordable, flexible, and made to last a long time. It doesn’t rust like steel pipes, erode, or increase the risk of explosion like PVC does. It will help extend the life of your propane tank.

Related Questions

Why is galvanized steel poisonous?

Galvanized steel should never be used in cooking appliances or kitchen surfaces. When zinc is heated up, it releases zinc fumes that are toxic to inhale. In addition, deposits of zinc can leach into foods, and are equally dangerous to consume. The USDA has not approved the use of galvanized steel in any kitchen utensils, surfaces, or containers. 


Can propane freeze?

Propane generally does not freeze. But if outdoor temperatures consistently remain below zero, it’s possible the propane will be too cold to heat up enough to boil into its gaseous form. If this happens, it will remain in its liquid state, rendering it temporarily unusable. But most homeowners in the continental US will not have to deal with persistent sub-zero temperatures.

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Conclusion

If you’re wondering whether you can use galvanized piping for propane, you’ll want to check your local codes first. Some states allow galvanized piping, and some do not. Galvanized piping is not the most affordable or effective choice for propane lines.

The zinc coating on this steel piping can react poorly to certain natural gas elements, causing the zinc to flake off and clog the pipes. Alternative piping materials, like black steel and plastic polyethylene tubing, are better choices.

Jessica Vaillancourt
Jessica Vaillancourt

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