Replacing a gas tap in compliance with safety regulations

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A short service life is especially typical for outdated gas valve designs or models made of plastic or cheap alloys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

OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY REQUIREMENTS IN EMERGENCIES

4.1. In the event of a sudden power outage or extraneous noise when operating gas equipment, stop work, stop the operation of the equipment, and hang up a “Do not turn on!” sign. and report this to your immediate supervisor. 4.2. Do not start work until the faults are completely eliminated. 4.3. If a fire or ignition is detected, immediately stop work, turn off the gas supply, turn off electrical installations, report the fire to the fire department by calling 101 and begin extinguishing the fire using available fire extinguishing means. 4.4. If electric motors or electrical cables catch fire, it is not allowed to extinguish the flame with water. In this case, you should turn off the damaged electrical installation, and then begin to extinguish it using fire extinguishers. 4.5. If an accident occurs and a locksmith is an eyewitness, he should immediately remove or carry the victim out of the danger zone, report the incident to the management of the organization, and provide first aid to the victim, call an ambulance by calling 103, and help organize delivery to the nearest medical facility. 4.6. If an accident occurs to the mechanic himself, he should stop working and, if possible, go to a medical facility, report the incident to the management of the organization, or ask someone around him to do this. 4.7. Each worker must be able to provide first aid to the victim: - in case of bruises, ensure complete rest, apply ice to the bruised area; If there is a bruise in the abdomen, do not give the victim anything to drink; - in case of bleeding, raise the limb, apply a pressure bandage, tourniquet (in summer the tourniquet is left for 1.5 hours, and in winter - for 1 hour); — in case of a fracture, apply a splint; - for thermal and electrical burns, cover the burned area with a sterile bandage; to avoid infection, do not touch burned areas of the skin with your hands and lubricate them with ointments, fats, etc.; - if acid or alkali gets into exposed areas of the body, immediately wash them with a neutralizing solution, and then with cold water and soap; in case of contact with alkali, use a solution of boric acid; - if acid or alkali gets into your eyes, immediately rinse them with a neutralizing solution and contact a health center or doctor; - in case of all poisonings, immediately remove or remove the victim from the poisoning zone, unfasten clothing that is restricting breathing, provide an influx of fresh air, lay him down, elevate his legs, cover him warmly, let him smell ammonia and immediately transport the victim to a medical facility; - in case of electric shock, release the victim from the current, if necessary, perform artificial respiration or closed heart massage; - the victim can be transported only if breathing is satisfactory and the pulse is stable.

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 +80o C.

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 shut-off element does not fit tightly to the walls of the 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.

Relocation of a gas boiler in an apartment, approval

internal gas distribution is an open system, all covering elements are camouflage in nature and should not be firmly fixed;
It is prohibited to lay pipelines through ventilation ducts, as well as doors and windows;
metal structures are predominantly used; flexible connections are allowed in equipment connection areas, but their length should not exceed 3 m;
a rigid method of connecting pipes and hoses to pipes is used;
Pipe transitions through walls/partitions are equipped with special adapters - sleeves.

For a long period of time, it maintains tightness and elasticity even under active mechanical stress. The structure of the shell is preserved even under high pressure of the transported medium or under constant mechanical stress.

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 a 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.

What you need to know: valuable tips

Before purchasing a flexible hose, it is necessary to check the size of the thread at the outlet of the plate, its classification and whether it is straight or angular. If the outlet is of a direct type (directed into the wall), you must purchase a sleeve with a square at the end.

The gas hose should not be painted - this will accelerate its cracking. A more attractive look can be created by covering it with special paper or oilcloth.

It is also strictly forbidden to tightly seal gas communications with false plasterboard panels and other structures - this will make it difficult to carry out service work on individual elements.

To camouflage the gas supply system, a collapsible box is used, which can be easily dismantled if necessary. In this case, there will be constant access to all structural elements of the gas system.

It is forbidden to use unnecessary connections. Independent complication of a gas structure, according to technical regulations, may entail a fine or disconnection from gas supply

If a technician has been called to connect a gas water heater or stove, it is necessary to check that the work is being done correctly: the excess tap from the tap on the lower side must be unscrewed, the flexible line must be directly connected exclusively to the tap located on the branch pipe, and its other end - only to the outlet of the gas stove .

It is also possible to use an adapter. Any additional installations are prohibited.

Procedure for calling specialists

The best choice is not to carry out manipulations 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 the 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.

Installation of dielectric insert

Many of us, at least once, having touched a gas stove, suddenly felt a weak, but very noticeable electric discharge. It would seem, what does electricity have to do with it, since the stove is gas? However, not all so simple.

In fact, there can be two reasons for the appearance of an electric discharge. The first is the application of a small negative electrical potential to the main pipes to protect them from electrochemical corrosion. Of course, at the junction of the main pipe with the section leading to the house, a dielectric insert must be installed, which isolates the apartment wiring from the main.

However, such protection works as long as the insert is in good condition. If the insulating insert fails, an electric current appears on the flexible line from the riser to the slab. The second possible reason is the use of electrical components in the gas stove. Almost all modern models of gas stoves are equipped with electrical appliances - from electric ignition of burners and oven lighting to an electric grill that rotates a spit in the oven. If the insulation of the electrical wiring of the stove is in order, there will be no problems. But if the insulation is damaged, an electric current will flow through the supply line - now from the stove to the riser.

Whatever the reason, the consequences of the above-described phenomenon can be extremely dangerous - the current flowing through the liner, especially when using sleeves in a braid, which is made from wire of a small cross-section and, therefore, has a high resistance, can heat up the sleeve braid so much that it simply burns the existing Inside there is a rubber hose. In this case, a gas leak will inevitably occur, which, in contact with the heated braid, can easily ignite or even explode. By the way, this is why metal-braided rubber hoses are not recommended for permanent connection of household gas appliances.

To avoid these troubles, it is enough to use a special dielectric insert when installing the liner. Typically, such an insert is made of plastic or combined materials (for example, the insert itself is plastic, and the threaded parts are metal).

Insulating insert: on the left - plastic with metal thread, on the right - plastic

Our company’s specialists are always ready to install the dielectric insert for you. GazService-NN specialists will carefully, quickly and efficiently install the dielectric insert. At the same time, you do not have to purchase it yourself; we will always have all the necessary consumables, including dielectric inserts for gas.

By entrusting the work to “GazService-NN”, you will not have to worry about the consequences of poor-quality installation, because we are a specialized service company for the installation and maintenance of gas equipment and have all the necessary documents to carry out this type of work. If necessary, we will also replace other elements of the gas system and inexpensively install or replace any gas equipment in your apartment or house.

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.

How to move a gas boiler or water heater to another location

It is necessary to draw up, coordinate and approve the relevant technical documentation, which is difficult. In practice, you will have to dismantle, clean and remake (digest) the supply gas pipeline, lead it into the room where the new project requires installing a boiler or water heater.

You can’t just pick up and move a boiler or gas heater to another room. The gas connection to the devices is usually done with a flexible connection, which is a corrugated stainless steel tube, the so-called “gas pipe”. In this regard, there is a clause in the regulations that does not allow the flexible gas supply to cross any structures, windows, doors or other openings.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=mCFVfZJOKy0

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, a gas hose is included in the line, which is considered a temporary solution to the problem.

At whose expense are the gas taps and hoses in the apartment replaced?

They scare old people with fines and offer their services at exorbitant prices.
Scammers force people to pay exorbitant prices for servicing their stoves. Marina VOLOSEVICH Change text size:AA Last week, the State Housing Inspectorate warned: from this year, owners of gas stoves and water heaters will face serious fines. They can be discharged for the lack of a contract for the maintenance of the stove and water heater, as well as for not allowing a gas service employee into the apartment.

The other day there was a knock on the door of Lyudmila Sandalova (name changed) from Chelyabinsk. Two men resolutely walked into the kitchen and began to shame the pensioner: “It’s time to change the tap, we’re writing you an order.” The replacement deadline is a month. The work costs a thousand rubles.

Consultation "Legal consultation"

Question No. 33297 Question author: Vladimir.

N 491) reads: “...5.

The common property includes in-house engineering systems of cold and hot water supply and gas supply, consisting of risers, branches from the risers to the first shut-off device located on the branches from the risers, the said shut-off devices, collective (common house) cold and hot water metering devices, first shut-off devices - control valves

Hello, Oleg! No, you are not required to change the gas shut-off valve.

Since the gas shut-off valve does not belong to the in-house gas equipment, but to the general house gas equipment, the responsibility for its proper operation and replacement, if necessary, lies with the management company, and not you.

Letter from the Ministry of Regional Development of Russia dated October 18, 2013.

In accordance with paragraphs four and seven of clause 2 of the Rules, indoor gas equipment in an apartment building includes gas pipelines, which are the common property of the owners of the premises, laid from the gas source (when using liquefied petroleum gas)

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.

Selection rules

Gas valves made in Italy are leaders in the sales market.
Before changing the gas valve, you should familiarize yourself with the main criteria that characterize the quality and reliability of the products.

Life time. Considering the specifics of replacing a gas tap, it should be done as rarely as possible. Based on this, the minimum period is 10 years.
Manufacturer. Preference should be given to trusted brands and dealers. It is not recommended to purchase products from China. The best choice would be products from Italy, Germany, Poland and France.
Type of marking. All characters must be clear, without spaces, bends or sagging. Plus, complete information about the brand, size, pressure, material and standard.
Quality. The internal element must completely cover the gap and have perfect polishing without mechanical damage. A magnet checks for the presence of iron in the product.

When purchasing, you should ask the seller for a certificate to make sure that the product is not a fake.

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.

Please write comments in the block below. I'm interested in stories about how the valve on your gas line was replaced. Ask questions, share your impressions of the information we provide, post photos related to the topic of the article.

What is needed to change the stove?

So, you are about to change the stove. What you need to prepare for this:

The stove itself, in the case where you do not have the preferential status necessary for a free replacement. The device must comply with GOST 33998 and have a gas control system.
Equipment for installation, necessary tools, consumables and materials.
Equipment - everything for sealing, flexible hoses and so on.
Documents for redevelopment if the kitchen is moved to another location.
Documents confirming the authority of the owner or tenant of the apartment.
Identification.
Consent of all apartment owners.
All papers on gas supply.
Technical passport of the apartment.

Again, if the location for the device remains the same and only the device itself is replaced with a similar one, there is no need to legalize the conversion.

If you are changing a gas stove to an electric one, you must legalize the conversion; if you are moving the appliance to another room, then the redevelopment. If you are simply replacing it with a similar one, you do not need to carry out any approvals on both points.

The requirements for a new stove are standard. It must have all the necessary certificates and meet the requirements of GOST.

It is also recommended to check whether there will be free access to it and the gas pipeline in case of redevelopment, whether the chimney is in working order, and whether the ventilation is functioning as required.