What is the typical working pressure range for residential natural gas systems?

The typical working pressure range for residential natural gas systems is expressed in inches of water column, which is a standard way of measuring low-pressure gas systems. For residential applications, the ideal working pressure typically ranges from 4 to 10 inches of water column, which translates approximately to 0.14 to 0.36 psi. This pressure is sufficient to enable the safe and efficient operation of gas appliances such as furnaces, stoves, and water heaters, ensuring they receive the appropriate amount of gas for proper combustion and performance.

Understanding this range is crucial for ensuring that gas appliances operate efficiently and safely. If the pressure is too high or too low, it could lead to inefficient combustion, appliance damage, or even safety hazards. In contrast, other pressure ranges presented in the options don't align with the typical residential systems. For example, 2 to 5 psi would be considered too high for standard residential use, while 0.5 to 1 psi generally represents different types of applications, and 14 to 18 inches of water column exceeds the typical pressure range for household appliances.