Replacing a gas tap: safety rules, instructions and analysis of popular mistakes

Pipes that supply gas to stoves or other equipment operating on this type of fuel must be equipped with individual taps in order to instantly shut off the gas supply in the event of a dangerous situation.

The condition of locking devices must be constantly monitored. You may need to immediately replace the gas tap in your apartment if it suddenly breaks down.

Here you will learn all about the reasons for replacing gas pipe taps and choosing the appropriate device model. For independent craftsmen, we provide step-by-step instructions. A detailed description of the work will help not only replace the shut-off device yourself, but also monitor the actions of gas service workers.

Common reasons for replacing a faucet

Gas communications are highly reliable and even in difficult conditions they can serve for decades. The most vulnerable part of such systems are the valves installed in the apartment, which, due to constant loads, quickly fail.

A short service life is especially typical for outdated gas valve designs or models made of plastic or cheap alloys

The question of replacing the locking mechanism may arise if there is a smell of gas in the area of ​​the tap. A malfunction of the device is also indicated by external damage, for example, cracks or chips of the device, as well as difficult movement or excessively free rotation of the flywheel.

If one of the described problems occurs, you should call employees of the city gas company or another organization servicing your home. They will carry out diagnostics, recommend a suitable faucet model, and, if necessary, carry out a replacement operation.

Due to the increased danger, experts advise replacing the faucet before malfunctions occur immediately after the expiration of the warranty period, which for most models is 10 years.

Types of gas taps

There are many types of shut-off devices that are installed on gas pipes. Based on the features of their designs, two main groups can be distinguished:

Variety #1: cork

Until recently, this was the most common type of gas tap. The central part of such models is a conical element (plug) with a hole.

The main body of a plug valve is a cone-shaped insert with a hole in the middle. With its help, the gas flow is blocked or opened. The taps are made of brass or cast iron - durable, wear- and corrosion-resistant materials (+)

When opening the device using a flywheel, the hole in the conical part is aligned with the same one in the pipe, allowing gas to pass to the equipment. A gland is usually used to connect plug valves to the pipeline to create a seal.

Variety #2: ball

The main part of this type of locking element is a spherical part made of strong metal.As in its cork counterparts, it has a hole, which, when turning the handle, is aligned with the pipe, thereby ensuring access of natural fuel to the corresponding device.

Diagram of the operation of a ball valve: the main operating element of such a device is a round part that blocks the gas admission in the closed state and ensures the passage of flow in the open state

Such valves appeared relatively recently and quickly gained popularity due to their many advantages, namely:

• low cost;
• excellent functionality and safety margin;
• long service life;
• ease of operation;
• ability to work in various environments at temperatures from -60 to +80^O WITH.

Due to the combination of valuable qualities, experts now give preference to spherical structures when equipping household gas systems.

Unlike coupling and flange models, which can be used repeatedly, a welded valve is a disposable device and cannot be repaired

According to the method of connection to pipes, there are several subtypes of ball valves:

• Threaded (coupling). In this case, the tap is connected to a section of the gas pipeline using a threaded part.
• Flanged. Fastening is carried out using flanges fixed with bolts. Such devices are most often used when transporting gaseous substances and oil.
• Welded. In this case, the tap is firmly welded to the pipe using an appropriate apparatus.

According to their purpose, ball valves are divided into three types:

• Three-way, used for redistribution of gas flows;
• With a heated body, used in cold climates;
• With leakage control.

There is also a division according to the diameter of the passage.

According to this indicator, details can be classified into two categories:

• DN 10-50 mm;
• DN more than 50 mm.

Another classification takes into account the nominal pressure that the valve can withstand.

In this case, there are two types of devices:

• PN 1.6 MPa 16 kg/cm2;
• PN 4.0 MPa 40 kg/cm2.

Ball valves can be made from different types of metal. The most widely used elements are those made from brass, zinc, steel 20 and alloys (09G2S, 12Х18Н10Т), plastic.

The best qualities are demonstrated by brass devices, which can have a yellow or silver color (the latter is typical for nickel-plated models). Devices made from this alloy can be recognized by their relatively heavy weight.

Gas taps made of brass or bronze are recognized as the most wear-resistant and resistant to external influences. This device is characterized by its small size, reliability, ease of use, and high service life.

Featuring a robust, versatile design, brass taps are durable, low maintenance and can be installed in any position.

Key points for selecting a device

When choosing a locking mechanism for a gas pipeline, you should pay attention to the following characteristics:

• Pipe diameter. The tap must completely block the flow of gas into the apartment. If the locking element does not fit tightly to the walls gas pipe, then its tightness will be only partial, which can lead to serious consequences.
• Coincidence of diameter and thread pitch on the pipe and tap. In this case, installation of the device is quite easy.Installing a locking element with mismatched threads and diameters is, in principle, possible using adapters, but this will require additional material and time costs for the purchase and installation of additional parts.
• Hull integrity. The outer shell of the element must be free of cracks, chips, sagging and other defects. Their presence indicates a violation of the rules for transportation, manufacturing or storage of parts, which can lead to internal malfunctions, as well as a reduction in the service life.

You should also pay attention to the quality of the products, giving preference to models from well-known companies.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the valve

The procedure for replacing the gas supply valve to the device is quite simple, but extremely responsible, since natural fuel is flammable, and when combined with air, it is an explosive substance. Therefore, we strongly recommend that you seek the help of specialists who have been trained and have received permission to carry out such work.

Having installation skills and following safety rules, you can install the crane yourself in just 15-20 minutes - but only in case of urgent need. In the future, the result should be monitored by a representative of the city gas company.

To replace a tap on a pipe you will need the following tools and materials:

• new locking mechanism to match the pipe;
• two gas wrenches No. 1 or No. 2, one of which will be needed to unscrew the thread, the second - to hold the lower pipe motionless (this will avoid damage to the pipeline leading to the gas stove);
• a means intended for sealing the place where the faucet is attached to the pipe (for this purpose you can use ordinary linen thread, FUM tape, Tangit Unilok thread);
• flat screwdriver;
• graphite grease, grease or other lubricants;
• plug for a 0.5-inch pipe with internal thread (when working together, you can do without this element).

If the threads or diameters of the pipes and the tap do not match, extensions, fittings, and adapters may also be needed.

The replacement process consists of a series of simple operations that must be performed as quickly as possible to minimize gas leakage from the system. First of all, you should shut off the supply of natural fuel to the apartment by placing the valve handle in a position perpendicular to the pipe.

When replacing the gas shut-off mechanism, the valve is tightened by hand, only the last turns are made using a wrench

After this, you can begin to dismantle the old tap, which is unscrewed from the pipeline. If the process is difficult to carry out, you can try treating the threaded connection with WD-40, which improves smoothness.

If a welded valve was previously installed in the room, it will have to be cut off using a grinder, after which additional threads should be cut on the pipes. A temporary plug is placed in place of the removed valve.

Before treating the connection between the tap and the pipe with sealant or FUM tape, this area should be thoroughly cleaned of dirt and corrosion.

A thread is wound onto the thread for sealing. To do this, unscrew about 7 cm of thread and place it in the outermost recess of the thread, then wind the thread clockwise into each groove.

Having covered the thread with one layer of thread, you should continue winding in the opposite direction. After this, the laid insulation is covered with a layer of graphite lubricant or other suitable composition.

If linen thread is used as a thread sealant, it should be treated with oil paint. When using Tangit Unilok thread, such an operation is not required

The plug is removed and a new tap is quickly placed in this place (it is important to make sure that its handle is in the “closed” position). The element is screwed on manually, the last turns are made with a wrench.

Procedure for calling specialists

The best choice is not to do the manipulation yourself, but to call Gorgaz employees.

The procedure in this case is as follows:

• You need to contact the company servicing your home, tell them in detail about the problem and leave a request to call a specialist (before his visit, it is better to refrain from using gas).
• At the appointed time, the company’s employees will come to the apartment, perform diagnostics and decide whether to replace the faucet. They will also tell you which valve model you can purchase yourself or suggest using the option they have.
• Since Gorgaz specialists may ask to see a gas supply contract, documents for a gas stove, or the last paid gas bills, it is better to prepare them in advance.
• Before the workers’ visit, it is also advisable to light blue fuel and let it burn out in the pipe by turning off its supply with a tap at gas meter. Such an operation will help save time, since all manipulations can be carried out only after the pipeline is empty.
• It is also necessary to ventilate the room well, creating a draft.
• When gas workers carry out work, it is advisable to be close to them in order to monitor their work.
• After replacing the device, you should check it with the repairmen by testing the burner.
• Specialists fill out a report on the operation performed, certifying it with the seal of the service organization. The owner of the apartment also signs the paper.
• After all work is completed, the windows should be left open for at least another half hour to allow all the gas to escape from the room.

In case of planned work to replace or repair gas systems, the service of dismantling the old locking mechanism and installing a new model of faucet is performed free of charge, however, the apartment owner purchases the device, as well as consumables, at his own expense.

Faucet replacement services are usually performed by a repair team of two people, so the procedure takes a minimum of time

When calling specialists, you will also have to pay a small amount for the service provided and pay for the device.

Inspection of a plug valve without replacing it

In some cases, it is possible to do without replacing the valve by cleaning and lubricating the used plug device.

The algorithm of actions in this case is as follows:

• First of all, you need to turn off the tap by placing its handle perpendicular to the pipe on which it is located.
• Using one of the gas wrenches, fix the squeegee in the area of ​​the valve, trying to keep it stationary.
• Using a second wrench, fit the coupling and locknut onto the long thread.
• Try to unscrew the valve with a wrench, and then, with free rotation, unscrew it completely by hand.
• After removing the part, cover the resulting holes with a plug.You should not be afraid of increased pressure, since the pressure in the pipe is only 3-5% higher than atmospheric pressure.
• Place the plug on the thread, then screw it in completely without using tools.
• Unscrew the valve from the sump, removing layers of old insulating materials and paint.
• Using a screwdriver, unscrew the plug with the groove on the back side of the valve, removing the spring hidden under it, and then remove the conical plug from the body.
• Thoroughly clean the parts (plug, body) of any remaining old lubricant, and then apply a new compound to the element.
• After this, assemble all the parts of the gas valve in the opposite sequence to the algorithm described above.
• Remove the plug and replace it with the assembled part, having first replaced the insulating materials on the threads.
• Screw in the drive and insulate the threads, then install the locknut and coupling into the working position.

In all cases, upon completion of the faucet replacement, it is necessary to check the correct assembly and then invite specialists.

Checking the results of the actions performed

After completing all manipulations to replace the locking mechanism, it is necessary to check the tightness of the connections created. To do this, it is enough to use a proven method: dilute soap with water and apply the resulting emulsion to the place where the valve fits on the threads, as well as on the plug. If the joints are not connected tightly enough, bubbles will be observed in places where gas leaks.

In addition to the traditional test with a soap solution, you can also use a special device that allows you to detect the presence of natural gas in the room

In this case, the defect must be corrected immediately.To do this, remove the tap and repeat all the operations again, trying to wind the thread and apply the sealant more carefully and accurately.

Safety rules during work

All manipulations with gas equipment are considered work with an increased level of danger. When performing work on a gas pipeline, the pipe is opened, causing a gas leak.

This can lead to two serious dangers:

• Natural fuel mixes with air, resulting in an explosive mixture. Any spark that may occur when turning on an electrical device (for example, a switch) can lead to an explosion.
• At higher gas concentrations, the air becomes unsuitable for breathing. Inhaling a propane-butane mixture causes poisoning of the body, which can even lead to death.

To avoid emergency situations, precautions must be strictly followed.

Employees of the city gas service, when repairing equipment, in particular, replacing a tap, must comply with the “Rules of technical operation and labor safety requirements in the gas industry of the Russian Federation” (PB 12-368-00 Resolution of the State Mining and Technical Supervision Service of Russia dated July 18, 2000 No. 41, SNiP 2.04.08-87).

When carrying out repairs, it is strictly forbidden to manipulate gas equipment located outside the apartment - on the street or in the entrance

When carrying out independent work, you must adhere to the following provisions:

• All work must be carried out with the windows wide open.
• The apartment must be completely de-energized, so for repairs it is important to have access to the switchboard and circuit breakers.
• During manipulations to replace the gas tap, it is prohibited to smoke or light matches in the room.
• All work must be carried out exclusively during the daytime.
• The door to the kitchen where work is being carried out must be tightly closed. It is also advisable to plug all cracks to prevent gas from entering other rooms.
• It is forbidden to close the valve on the common gas riser, as in this case the gas leakage may increase many times, which will increase the risk of explosion.
• It is advisable to carry out all work together: this will speed up the process and avoid complications.
• You should not replace the tap yourself if there are signs of corrosion or other damage on the gas pipe; in this case, it is preferable to call specialists.

When carrying out work, it is advisable to have a fire-fighting device (fire extinguisher) in the immediate vicinity.

Note that the valve for shutting off the gas supply can only be installed on a rigid section of the pipe. If the metal branch next to the device is damaged, it must be moved. In this case, the main line includes gas hose, which is considered a temporary solution to the problem.

Analysis of typical installation errors

Although the operation of replacing a gas tap is quite simple, it can end in failure for inexperienced craftsmen.

If the length of the old faucet does not correspond to the same parameter of the new one, you should use extensions, which can have internal and external threads

Typical shortcomings are:

• Inability to connect the tap to the pipe. Most often this happens due to the fact that these elements do not match in size or thread. Adapters and extensions of different shapes and sizes will help correct the situation.To avoid getting into a similar situation, it is advisable to take into account the parameters of the pipes at the stage of selecting a tap.
• Valve not tightened enough. The threads must be tightened by hand, but a wrench must be used at the end. If this is not done, the connection will not be reliable enough, which will lead to gas leakage and instability of the structure.
• Tightening the tap exclusively with a wrench. When working with a tool, the possibility of damage to the part or thread breakage increases.
• Insufficient tightness of the connection. If testing the replaced faucet shows that natural gas is being released into the air, you should immediately turn off the stove and correct the error as described above.

Do not use faucets of poor quality. In order for the equipment to serve for a long time, it is important to choose models from well-known companies. It is advisable to use brass devices that require a minimum of maintenance while maximizing efficiency and durability.

Silicone and other similar materials dry out and lose their elasticity, as a result of which they begin to leak gas. To prevent this from happening, it is better to use graphite-based lubricants.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

The video shows in detail the process of replacing the tap on the pipe leading to the gas stove:

Replacing a faucet is a simple but very important process. Even if you have experience in carrying out similar work, according to the standards, you cannot do it yourself - you need to contact specialized services. There are employees who have been trained and received the necessary permission to carry out repairs of gas systems.

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