How do I cut and cap a gas line to a gas grill next to my house?
Question:I have an old gas grill next to my house that is connected to a gas line from the house. There is a shut-off valve outside. I need to cut this line and cap it so I can remove the old grill completely. The gas company said they don't do work on my side of the meter. Can I do this myself? How? Or should I call a professional? Who would I call?
Answers:
If you are not familiar with leak testing a gas line, I would suggest you call a gas plumber.
Basically disconnect it on the output side of the shut off and install a cap.
This is actually quite easy, legal, and safe to do yourself. Turn of the shut off valve feeding the grill and remove what ever is attached to it on the grill side, if necessary, cut off a piece of this piping and take it to the home center. Ask the plumbing guy there for a plug that will fit the shut off valve, he will probably give you a brass plug. Screw the plug on the valve using Teflon pipe thread compound. Turn the valve on and brush the valve, plug, incoming piping, etc. with a mixture of dish detergent and water and watch for bubbles. No bubbles, no leaks and you are done. Tighten and maybe even disassemble and apply pipe thread compound if leaking.
You can shut the gas supply at your meter. You will need to bleed the line of residual gas. You can cut the copper with a tubing cutter (no sparks please). You might consider placing a valve on the stub for future use, just use the type with a removable handle. Otherwise use a threaded cap or sweat solder a copper cap. Turn on the gas again and check for leaks with soapy water and your nose. Re-light pilots as necessary (hot water heater, stove, oven, heater). Good Luck.
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