Cost Comparison: CSST, Copper, Black Iron

Cost Comparisons

You are faced with a large gas line installation project. What is the most cost effective method? Well, it depends. If you have a reasonable plumber in your area who has been trained on how to use CSST, then it might be the hands down winner. The type of job also makes a difference. If there are lots and lots of bends, twists, and turns, then CSST and soft copper might massacre black iron.

You will have to get bids and see how it all turns out. One thing is for sure. As CSST becomes more and more accepted by professionals, the cost of the material will drop and this will benefit you the consumer. You will also find that improvements will allow homeowners to install the material with relative ease. Many companies who now make CSST do not want the average homeowner to install their product. They want plumbers to attend special, and necessary, training sessions.

Following is a cost comparison of four different jobs. Look at the numbers closely, especially the material and labor differentials. There are four different situations: House A is a small house with just a furnace and hot water heater. House B is a medium-sized house with a furnace, hot water heater, and two other gas appliances. House C has mid-level pressure - 2 PSI - a furnace, hot water heater and 4 other gas appliances. House D has mid-level pressure, two furnaces, two hot water heaters and six other gas appliances. CSST will usually only save money on larger jobs. Table Data courtesy of Omegaflex: