I am replacing the rim joist on my house. In one section, the natural gas line from the meter to a wall heater runs along the outside of the rim joist. There is no way to remove the old rim without disconnecting the gas line. It is a threaded steel pipe clipped to the rim. Is it safe for me to remove this section of pipe after turning off the gas at the meter or should I get a professional? Similarly, would it be safe for me to reconnect afterwards using teflon tape or have a professional come out?
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Depends on how mechanically inclined and competent you are. The correct answer from anyone here will be "call a pro or gas company" but I'd do it myself without even thinking twice, I know what I'm doing though.
No offense, but the fact that you're even asking us implies to me that you aren't experienced at it and should consider hiring someone to do it.
If the meter is turned off, and you release the pressure by opening a valve, then disconnecting would be within your abilities. Save your money on that end. Spend a few bucks, call a pro to reconnect and test for leaks. You'll sleep better.Do it right, or do it twice.
Well I know how to do it, tell Tomm.
yeah... I would agree. Gas is not something to mess around with. Rats! I gotta sell my entire collection of Fine Homebuilding magazine. Issues 1 through 150! So I decided to put it up on eBay. They are being sold in lots of 10. All lots start at 99 cents. So get on in there and pick yourself up a bargain or two...
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I'm not a plumber but I have worked on my own gas line many times. The pressure is quite low so generally the fittings are not that difficult to remove. You can test connections with soapy water. Don't forget to use teflon paste on the threads and relight all pilots. Actually you can usually get your utility company to come out and do the relight and check for free.
bit
There are two kinds of teflon tape, a special yellow kind for gas, and white for everything else. I use the goop in the little can with the brush in the cap for gas. The gas company guys here use LubriPlate. Whatever you do, test carefully with soapy water, never with a flame. The bubbles are much easier to see, and obviously safer to do.
-- J.S.
Use the teflon pipe dope, it seals the threads better. Overtightening the gas line causes the most problems, I've seen fittings crack and split from turning too much.
While the pipe is disconnected take the hose from your air compressor and blow into the meter sending the needles spinning backwards lowering your gas bill... I do it every month or two.
Just kidding!!
Richard James Tolzman
why did you ruin the fun by adding the disclaimer? LOL
Rats! I gotta sell my entire collection of Fine Homebuilding magazine. Issues 1 through 150! So I decided to put it up on eBay. They are being sold in lots of 10. All lots start at 99 cents. So get on in there and pick yourself up a bargain or two...
Check it our here... FHB on eBay