How to Disconnect a Sweated Copper Pipe

Copper piping is commonly used for both residential and commercial applications, and it is manufactured in a variety of different thickness grades. Copper pipe is commonly joined with soldered fittings. Soldering the pipe, sometimes referred to as “sweating,” provides a strong bond and resists corrosion well. Copper pipe is fairly pliable as compared to other pipe materials, such as cast iron, but dents and dings are common on older pipes, and leaks are inevitable. The first step in performing a repair is to detach the pipe from the pipe joint.

Hand-held propane torch
Spark lighter
Adjustable pliers

Instructions

- 1
  Turn off the supply valve that delivers water to the pipe by turning the valve’s handle to its extreme clockwise position.
- 2
  Drain the water from the pipe by turning on a water faucet until the faucet runs dry.
- 3
  Open the gas valve on a handheld propane torch by turning the valve in a counterclockwise direction. Strike a spark lighter next to the torch nozzle until the gas ignites, then turn the valve in a clockwise direction until the flame is approximately 2 inches in length.
- 4
  Hold the tip of the flame against the soldered pipe joint for approximately four to five seconds, or until the solder starts to bubble.
- 5
  Move the flame along the entire soldered joint to heat the pipe evenly.
- 6
  Separate the pipe from the fitting by pulling the pipe away with adjustable pliers.

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