How to Seal Home Gas Line Fittings

Gas lines are used extensively in homes to deliver natural gas to water heaters, ranges and other home appliances. Gas lines are considerably more durable than water lines because of the volatile nature of gas. Because of this volatility the gas supply should be turned off immediately upon suspecting a leak. Repairing leaking fittings is typically a straightforward job, but you should contact a professional if in doubt about how to proceed for your specific repair.

Leak detection solution
Adjustable wrench
Pipe wrench
Wire brush
Gas pipe joint compound

Instructions

- 1
  Contact your local building and safety office to determine whether you are legally permitted to work on the gas lines. Some municipalities allow only licensed professionals to work on gas lines.
- 2
  Spray leak detection solution around each pipe fitting with the included spray nozzle to determine the precise location of the leak. A leak will cause the solution to bubble.
- 3
  Turn the gas supply off and allow at least 10 minutes to pass. Gas lines frequently feature an in-line shut-off valve. Turn the gas off at the gas meter if necessary. Contact the gas company if you have any doubt as to whether the gas supply is turned off.
- 4
  Disassemble the pipe assembly to remove the leaking pipes. If the pipe enters a coupling, hold the coupling stationary with one adjustable wrench and turn the pipe with a pipe wrench until the pipe detaches from the coupling.
- 5
  Clean the threads of the pipe thoroughly with a wire brush.
- 6
  Use the included brush to apply a liberal amount of gas pipe joint compound to the pipe threads.
- 7
  Reassemble the pipes, turn on the gas and test for leaks with the leak detection solution. Contact a professional if the fitting still leaks.

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