What is the minimum size water service pipe required from the property line to the water heater?

The minimum size for a water service pipe leading from the property line to the water heater is 3/4 inch. This diameter allows for adequate water pressure and flow rates for typical residential plumbing needs. Most residential applications can effectively function with this size, ensuring that fixtures in the home receive sufficient water supply without significant pressure loss.

Using a 3/4 inch pipe balances installation costs, performance, and compliance with common plumbing codes. Smaller diameters, such as 1/2 inch, could lead to insufficient water supply for multiple fixtures being used simultaneously, while larger diameters, like 1 inch or 2 inches, are unnecessary and would increase costs and installation complexity without providing additional benefits for a typical home's water service needs.