How to cap and remove fireplace gas pipe

fireplacegaspipe

We recently took out an outdated gas insert and looking to have a simple decorative firebox.

As a temporary measure I put a metal screw cap with some yellow Teflon tape on the gas pipe in the firebox.

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The gas pipe goes down to the basement where it connects to flexible piping before connecting back to the black gas line (the tap is closed).

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From what I have read I just need to unscrew where the flexible piping connects to the black gas line and place the cap there instead.

It's a 100-year old home so there isn't a gas shutoff valve inside the property, just at the meter instead. I'd prefer not to mess with that valve unless required.

  • Is this something an amateur can do safely?
  • Is it reasonable to not have the gas supply to the house turned off, or is that asking for trouble?

If the answer is to get a gas technician in then so be it, but if it's a simple job I can safely do in a few minutes then even better.

Best Answer

You have the right idea. Just remove the flexible pipe and transfer your cap to the fitting on the shutoff valve.

  • Make sure you leave the shutoff valve in the off position.
  • Make sure you have the correct threads and seal them and the connection is tight.
  • Check for leaks with a thick solution of soapy water.
  • If at any time you feel uncomfortable or think things are not working out right then shut off the outside valve and call a pipe fitter.

Good luck!

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