If you have a gas pipe that you don't use and want to seal it with a plug, you can do it using the correct materials; in this way, you avoid any gas leaks that could escape from the pipe. Once sealed, you can rest in the knowledge that your home is now safer.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Turn off the gas
Step 1. Locate the counter
Generally, it is located outside the house in a point accessible from the road; it could be installed in a specific housing, near other meters (such as water meters) or at the back of the house.
Step 2. Find the master valve
You can see two pipes connected to the meter; one comes from the operator's supply system, the other carries the methane into the house. The main valve is located on the first and looks like a thick metal rod with a hole; when it is open, it is parallel to the tube while it is perpendicular when it is closed.
- If the meter serves several domestic systems, the valve is generally positioned on the top of the common pipe, while each individual pipe has its own shut-off tap. Make sure you close the one related to your system, to avoid leaving another house without gas supply.
- Check the prospectuses and ask the homeowner to verify which pipe is relevant to your apartment.
Step 3. Close the valve
Rotate it 90 ° using an adjustable wrench; there should be another rectangular metal bar welded perpendicular to the pipe. When the valve is closed, the holes in both fingers should line up.
Step 4. Also tighten the valve serving the pipe you want to close
Check that it is in the correct position.
Part 2 of 3: Put the Plug on the Duct
Step 1. Remove any extra joints or pipes connected to the duct
Use the double wrench technique to loosen or remove elements without damaging the other joints or threaded pipes that are under the valve.
- This technique involves holding the valve steady with an adjustable wrench while loosening the joint with another wrench.
- If you are unable to use these tools or do not have them, you can use pipe wrenches.
Step 2. Clean the ducts with steel wool
Scrub the threads until they are perfectly clean, taking care to remove any remaining steel fibers as well.
Step 3. Wrap the threaded part with Teflon tape specific for methane pipes
Hold the end of the tape with your thumb during the first wrap and then overlap five turns to cover all the thread on which you will put the cap; proceed clockwise to prevent the tape from unrolling when you screw the cap on.
- Use a Teflon tape specifically for gas pipes.
- You can use pipe thread locking sealant; apply it evenly on the thread but do not use it at the same time as the tape.
- Use the right cap. If the conduit is brass, choose a brass plug; if it is made of iron, choose a cap of the same metal.
Step 4. Put the threaded cap on the tube
Tighten it with your fingers and when it is stable enough use the double wrench technique to tighten it further.
However, you don't have to overdo it; if you tighten the closure too much, you could break the cap and cause a gas leak
Part 3 of 3: Check for Leaks
Step 1. Reopen the main valve
Use the adjustable wrench to return the metal bar to its original position; at this point, it should be parallel to the gas supply pipe.
Step 2. Open the duct valve
Once the general one is activated, go back to the tube you closed and also open the tap that serves the tube you put the cap on. If you don't proceed with this step, you cannot verify that there are no leaks.
Step 3. Check for leaks
Make an equal parts soap and water solution, pour it into a spray bottle, shake it, and spray the mixture onto the cap. If you do not see any bubbles, it means that you have done a work to perfection; if you notice foam bubbles around the cap, there is a leak and you need to repeat the above steps until you have solved the problem.
In addition to looking for bubbles, pay attention to the hissing of the gas as it exits the tube
Step 4. Ignite the pilot lights
It may be necessary to reactivate the water heater or other devices, since you had turned off the methane.
Advice
- If you notice any damage to the system, immediately call the company providing the service.
- Wear protective goggles and gloves while doing this job.
Warnings
- Do not use and do not keep open flames lit while you work (for example a cigarette).
- Check your home insurance policy and gas supply company to find out if you can close and install a plug on your system; if you violate the regulations, you may not have any coverage in the event of damage.
