Can flexible copper be used as a gas line to a water heater?
Sure, done all the time. Particularly popular method with LP.
I thought copper reacted with something in NG.?
That copper, while “bendable”, I don’t believe that is “flexible” copper.
I don’t like it.
Is there a drip leg?
Sorry, bad use of word.
For whatever reason…maybe our gas is cleaner down here, but I’ve never, ever seen a drip leg on any gas appliance.
Here’s something I found specific to Longview, Texas.
http://www.ci.longview.tx.us/files/hcvp_landlord_inspection_checklist_2494.pdf
I know y’all have some pretty tight rules, may want to call AHJ.
First thing I noticed was the blocked therm control.
Copper used to have a bad reaction to NG in the past.
They used to add something which caused a corrosion.
I like to see black pipe as I never trust that thin wall stuff for a flamable.
Yes where is the drip leg.?
what do you mean by “blocked therm control”?
Oh, if you mean in the picture, that is an optical illusion. The dial wasn’t blocked.
Looked blocked but I think you should recommend a stainless flex
Copper for NG is allowed by many jurisdictions. The utility company has the final say, and it’s dependent on the hydrogen-sulfide content of the gas provided (must not exceed 0.3 grains per 100 cu. ft.)
In CA, we are required to use listed, flexible appliance connectors.
Jeff even if allowed by code a copper flex like that I would still suggest changing.
Heck I have garden hose I would trust with a hose clamp more.
And have.
And there are some who do not allow it, thus call AHJ.
I think we can agree that that is not a listed, flexible appliance connector.
It’s not an “appliance connector” at all, nor is it “flexible.” My point is that most commonly-recognized-codes allow for use of copper in NG piping, and it’s usually the utility company that has the final say.
Thanks. Good idea. I’ll call the city and the gas company and ask them.
Bruce
Good, then we agree.
Except for where you are (needs flexible appliance connector)
and where I am :mrgreen: 
(Not that I inspect for code compliance) 
Hence my first suggestion to call the AHJ - with the ultility having the juristiction.
I think we’re on the same page for the most part. But I’m not sure you understand what I’m saying with regards to copper piping.
Natural gas piping can be copper if allowed by the utility company. This holds true in many parts of CA, however, the appliance must be connected with a “listed appliance connector” attached to the gas-piping and the appliance (there are exceptions to this rule).
Many jurisdictions allow the piping to be connected directly to the appliance - as in the picture provided. The piping in that picture is not an appliance connector. It’s connected directly to the appliance.
Jeff, I think he doesn’t realize that you live where the earth beneath feet your sometimes moves.
I do understand what you’re saying - Copper is allowed in some juristictions.
What I am saying is essentially the same, just from a different perspective that it is NOT allowed in some juristictions.
My original idea was to have OP understand why AHJ needs a call.
Is this
http://www.hardwarestore.com/media/product/199083_front200.jpg
a flexible copper apliance connector?
Yes, Michael I understand the earthquake potential in CA, however the OP is in Texas.
Both have hmmmm… “interesting” RE rules
Yes. That is a listed, flexible, copper connector, but I don’t believe that it’s listed for NG. We use those for the inlet and outlet of the potable water piping of the water heater.