Product Overview
The HOME-FLEX 18-401-005 is a 1/2-inch IPS equal tee for creating a branch in a compatible underground yellow polyethylene fuel-gas piping system. All three connections accept the same 1/2-inch IPS pipe size, allowing the main run to continue while a third line branches toward another approved outdoor destination. The mechanical fitting is supplied ready for use with the internal pipe stiffeners required for its three connections.
This tee is part of the HOME-FLEX Underground system and is intended only for direct-burial applications using approved IPS yellow MDPE or polyethylene gas pipe carrying natural gas or propane. It is not a HOME-FLEX CSST fitting, and the two systems are not interchangeable. The manufacturer lists HOME-FLEX Underground mechanical fittings under ASTM F1924 Category 1. System design, pipe sizing, burial depth, fitting placement, tracer-wire requirements, pressure testing, inspection, and final connection methods must follow the current HOME-FLEX Underground manual, local fuel-gas and building requirements, and the authority having jurisdiction. Confirm the 1/2-inch IPS pipe size on every branch, the required flow capacity, and local acceptance before ordering or installation.
Key Features:
- Equal tee with three 1/2-inch IPS connections
- Creates a branch in compatible underground poly gas piping
- Mechanical fitting supplied with internal stiffeners
- For approved IPS yellow polyethylene or MDPE gas pipe
- Suitable for natural-gas or propane systems when approved for the project
- ASTM F1924 Category 1 fitting family
Common Uses:
- Branching an underground gas run toward a separate outdoor appliance location
- Dividing a properly sized underground distribution line
- Adding a branch point during a new HOME-FLEX Underground installation
Technical Specifications:
- Manufacturer part number: 18-401-005
- Product type: Underground equal tee
- Connection configuration: 1/2-inch IPS x 1/2-inch IPS x 1/2-inch IPS
- Connection method: Mechanical compression-style fitting
- Pipe compatibility: Approved IPS yellow polyethylene or MDPE gas pipe
- Fuel compatibility: Natural gas and propane
- Installation location: Underground direct-burial system
- Standard: ASTM F1924 Category 1
- Included components: Tee body and three internal pipe stiffeners
Important Installation Note:
Fuel-gas piping must be designed and installed by a qualified person as required by the governing authority. Do not use this fitting above ground, inside or beneath a building, encased in concrete, with CSST, or with pipe that does not match the size and specification marked on the fitting. The completed system must be tested and inspected according to the current HOME-FLEX instructions and local requirements before burial.
FAQ
Are all three tee connections the same size?
Yes. Each connection is sized for 1/2-inch IPS compatible yellow poly gas pipe.
Can this tee be used with HOME-FLEX CSST?
No. HOME-FLEX Underground polyethylene piping and HOME-FLEX CSST are separate systems with non-interchangeable fittings.
Are the pipe stiffeners included?
Yes. The fitting package includes a stiffener for each of the three pipe connections.
Can this fitting be installed above ground?
No. HOME-FLEX identifies this product for underground system use only.
Why Buy the HOME-FLEX 18-401-005 From Big Frog Supply?
Big Frog Supply identifies the exact part number, three-way 1/2-inch IPS configuration, underground-only application, compatible pipe type, included stiffeners, and manufacturer documents so contractors and purchasing teams can verify the fitting before ordering.
