How to Cap a Gas Line in My House
Most gas lines used in homes are composed of black steel or iron, also called black pipe. When there is a gas line in your home that is no longer being used, it must be capped to ensure the safety of the home's residents.
Things You Will Need
- Pipe threader
- Pipe dope
- Steel cap
- Pipe wrenches (2)
Even if there is a shutoff valve before the termination point, a cap must be installed in order to ensure there is no gas leakage in case of a valve failure.
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Turn off the gas supply from the closest shutoff valve or at the gas main.
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Thread the end of the pipe with a pipe threader if the pipe is not already threaded. Insert the end of the pipe into the threader and turn the threader clockwise until about an inch of the end of the pipe has been threaded. Remove the pipe threader from the end of the pipe.
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Smear pipe dope onto the threads to help seal the connection when the cap is installed.
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Twist the cap onto the end of the pipe by hand until it is snug. Turn the cap clockwise to install it on the end of the pipe.
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Attach a pipe wrench to the gas line 6 inches below the cap. Use another pipe wrench to turn the cap while holding the gas line securely in place. Tighten the cap completely. Restore gas service.
Writer Bio
Damon Koch has years of writing experience ranging from software manuals to song lyrics. His writing has appeared in software manuals for Human Arc and on the CDs "Small Craft Advisory" and "Impersonating Jesus." He also has worked in building maintenance since 2004. He has attended Lorain County Community College as well as Cleveland State University.
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