Do you need to install tracer wire with PE pipe and tubing?

• A. Yes, because PE pipe and tubing are non-conductive and cannot be found by pipe locating devices
• B. No, tracer wire is not needed
• C. Only if the line is buried
• D. Tracer wire is optional

Answer: (A)

PE pipe and tubing are non-conductive, so a pipe locator can’t detect them on its own. To make buried plastic gas piping locatable, a tracer wire is run along the length of the pipe and connected to the system at a suitable point. The locator device then sends a signal into that wire, and the receiver follows the signal to pinpoint the pipe’s position and approximate depth. Because of this, tracer wire is required for buried non-metallic piping in propane installations; without it, locating the line would be unreliable or impossible with standard locating equipment. In practice, you install a continuous tracer wire alongside the pipe, keep it protected from damage, and place warning tape above ground to mark the run. You’d also verify continuity after installation. This is why tracer wire is used with PE pipe: it makes the non-conductive plastic pipe locatable for safe excavation and future servicing.