How should propane equipment be grounded or bonded?

• A. Left ungrounded.
• B. Grounding alone is optional.
• C. Bonding and grounding per electrical codes to prevent static buildup and arcing.
• D. Grounding is not required for propane systems.

Answer: (C)

Propane systems must be bonded and grounded to prevent static electricity from building up and causing sparks. Grounding gives stray electrical charges a path to earth, while bonding ties all metal parts of the propane system together so they share the same electrical potential. If these protections aren’t in place, a charge difference can develop between the tank, piping, fittings, and equipment, especially during fueling or transfer, increasing the risk of an arc or ignition if a leak occurs. Electrical codes require both bonding and grounding of propane equipment, with proper clamps, continuous connections, and no breaks in the conductive path. In practice, you connect a bonding conductor between the propane system components and the building or dispenser ground, ensure clamps are approved for gas service, and keep connections clean and intact. So the best approach is to bond and ground per electrical codes to prevent static buildup and arcing.