LPG Plumbing

Submitted: Wednesday, Nov 09, 2016 at 16:48
ThreadID: 133740 Views:2690 Replies:7 FollowUps:0
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I am running the gas lines in a popup camper I am building and have a question. Is it permissible to install flared fittings like elbows, tees and things in a spot where they will be built in and inaccessible?
I will naturally bet it all inspected but don't want to get a knock back.
Keith
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Reply By: Allan B (Member, SunCoast) - Wednesday, Nov 09, 2016 at 17:29

Wednesday, Nov 09, 2016 at 17:29
Hi Keith,
Can't positively answer your specific question but it doesn't seem a good idea.
In any case, I thought that it was not permitted to carry out gas installations unless licensed to do so, even if you do submit it for inspection.
Rather like 230 volt installations.
Cheers
Allan

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AnswerID: 605782

Reply By: Tony F8 - Wednesday, Nov 09, 2016 at 18:31

Wednesday, Nov 09, 2016 at 18:31
Allan is correct, in saying you need to have the complete gas plumbing done by a licensed gas fitter, and also, do you really want tees, etc in an inaccessible place, as this Isithe only area your gas will leak, I know I definitely wouldn't.
AnswerID: 605783

Reply By: swampy - Wednesday, Nov 09, 2016 at 18:55

Wednesday, Nov 09, 2016 at 18:55
hi
All fittings must be accessable for leak check . No exceptions .
Code of ethics is to always use minimal fittings .
Saddle Clamp every 300-450mm
Use gas fittings not plumbing /water fitting
Cover appropriate copper line with heavy wall clear vinyl tubing
I cannot remember the spec for the copper
Formerly qualified vehicle gas fitter .
Have the pipe work signed off /leak checked/ inspected by a currently qualified person
It needs ""gas"" approval plating also

You may need a fire extinguisher and a smoke alarm also
Remember only the penetration for the copper line is acceptable into camper eg
Eg
3wayfridge 1 connection point inside van ,the back of the fridge where the line is fairly well sealed to the surrounding body work .Why ? If there is a gas leak from this area it drops to the floor and out the wall vent .

99% of line connections are outside of the van .
Isolation valve located at each accessory under floor with rock guard
eg 1 for each stove ,fridge ,hot water,heater etc etc

swampy
AnswerID: 605785

Reply By: Notso - Wednesday, Nov 09, 2016 at 19:11

Wednesday, Nov 09, 2016 at 19:11
Youwill need it certified by a qualified gas fitter, and if I was a gas fitter I wouldn't be certifying someone elses work.
AnswerID: 605786

Reply By: TomH - Wednesday, Nov 09, 2016 at 21:19

Wednesday, Nov 09, 2016 at 21:19
Unless you have a friendly licenced installer lined up before you start you may find no one will certify it for you. As said its his ticket that will go if there is a problem.
Pay someone to legally fit and know its all done properly and safely. May be cheaper than doing it and have to pull it all out if no one will certify it for you.
I wouldnt do it either.
AnswerID: 605789

Reply By: Malcom M - Thursday, Nov 10, 2016 at 06:11

Thursday, Nov 10, 2016 at 06:11
Have you bothered to talk to a gas fitter about what you are doing?
He might have the answers before you get too carried away.
AnswerID: 605795

Reply By: Member - KeithB - Thursday, Nov 10, 2016 at 07:33

Thursday, Nov 10, 2016 at 07:33
Thanks everyone for your advice..
I have a gasfitter coming in to look at it and I'll ask him to replace the offending lines. The problem arose due to my damaged wrists which make it difficult for me to properly bend the 10mm copper tube. So the shortcut was just too tempting. Per the streaker's defence: "It seemed like a good idea at the time".
It's an off road thing that I'm building out of epoxy composite and all of the service lines (gas, water, brake hydraulics, diesel for the heater and air for the suspension) are located above the floor to avoid stone damage.The fridge is electric.
Thanks again.
Keith
AnswerID: 605799

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