Understanding CSST Gas Piping and Why It Needs to Be Properly Bonded

At AmeriSpec Home Inspection, we pride ourselves on providing thorough and detailed home inspections that help ensure the safety and integrity of your home. One important aspect of our inspections is checking for CSST gas piping, which stands for Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing. This type of gas piping is commonly used in homes due to its flexibility and ease of installation. However, there’s a key safety consideration when it comes to CSST: proper bonding.

What is CSST Gas Piping?

CSST is a flexible, stainless steel piping system used to deliver natural gas to appliances in a home. Its flexibility makes it easier to install in tight spaces and around corners, compared to traditional rigid piping. CSST is commonly found in modern homes and can be used to supply gas to everything from water heaters to fireplaces.

Why Does CSST Need to Be Bonded?

Bonding refers to connecting the CSST piping to the home’s electrical grounding system. The primary purpose of bonding CSST is to protect the piping system from electrical hazards, particularly during lightning strikes or electrical faults.

When a CSST system is not properly bonded, it could potentially become energized during a lightning strike or a nearby electrical surge, increasing the risk of a fire or serious injury. Without bonding, the electrical current can travel through the CSST and cause sparks or arcing, which could ignite any gas leaking from the pipe. This is why bonding is a critical safety measure for CSST installations.

Potential Issues if CSST is Not Properly Bonded

If CSST piping is not properly bonded, several issues can arise, including:

1. Fire Hazards: Electrical energy from lightning or nearby electrical faults can cause sparks or arcing at any point of the CSST system. This can ignite natural gas leaks, leading to a fire or explosion.
2. Electrical Shock Risk: Without bonding, there is a risk of electrical shock if someone comes into contact with the CSST piping during an electrical event.
3. Code Violations: According to the National Electrical Code (NEC), all CSST systems must be bonded. Failure to properly bond the system may result in non-compliance with local building codes and could delay or complicate the home sale process.
4. Damage to the CSST System: A lack of bonding could result in damage to the CSST, which may not be immediately visible but could weaken the system over time, making it prone to leaks and failure.

What We Look for During Home Inspections

During our home inspections, we carefully check the gas piping system, including CSST, to ensure it is installed correctly and complies with safety standards. Specifically, we look for:

• Proper Bonding: We verify that the CSST is properly bonded to the home’s electrical grounding system, using an appropriate metal conductor to ensure electrical safety.
• Correct Installation: We also check the overall installation of the CSST, ensuring it is free from kinks, damage, or improper connections.
• Visible Signs of Leaks: While inspecting, we check for any signs of gas leaks around the CSST, which could indicate installation issues.

Conclusion

CSST gas piping is a convenient and safe option when installed properly, but it’s crucial that it is correctly bonded to prevent potential electrical hazards, fires, and compliance issues. During your next home inspection, be sure to have us check the CSST system to ensure that your home is safe and compliant with current building codes.

If you’re buying or selling a home, or simply want to ensure the safety of your current residence, contact AmeriSpec Home Inspection for a thorough inspection that includes checking for proper CSST bonding.