How To Tee Off An Existing Gas Line

Chad Kilpatrick
by Chad Kilpatrick
Teeing off a gas line is a matter of safety. The process is simple and easy, as long as you have a reciprocating saw. Follow along as we explore how you can safely tee off a gas line.

Many homes use gas, such as natural gas, for stoves, water heaters, and more. If your home uses gas, you may wonder how to tee off an existing gas line. This guide will show you exactly how to do that!

You will need to turn off the gas at the meter first. Then locate the gas line that you will be teeing off of. Once you locate the pipe and gas line, you will cut the pipe using a reciprocating saw with a metal blade, and then add your three socket tee.

There are many reasons you may want to tee off of an existing gas line, such as adding a line to a new gas grill or an outdoor gas firepit. Keep in mind that not every state allows you to work on gas lines without a license. The information in this guide is provided as our informed opinion and does not constitute actual advice from a licensed professional.

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Can You Tap Into An Existing Gas Line?

The answer you might have been hoping for is yes; you can tap into an existing gas line. You will just need to make sure that the line’s size provides enough gas flow to send gas to multiple utilities.

We suggest having a licensed professional to do it for you, and in most states, it is against the law to work on gas without the proper license. To find someone who can work on it for you, look for a licensed gas plumber.

If you are planning on doing the job yourself, and it is legal, you can use this step-by-step guide to find out what we would do if we were teeing off an existing gas line. But before you even start, you need to get a hold of your local authorities to find out if this is, in fact, okay for you to do as a DIY project.

Best Way To Cut Into A Gas Line

To cut into an existing gas line, you are going to need to make sure the gas is turned off. Then you will need to decide what kind of tool you will be using to cut the pipe. Most people use pipe cutting wrenches to get the job done, but if you are limited in space, then a metal blade reciprocating saw will do the job.

Once you have turned the gas off, wait around 20 mins before you start cutting. Though gas lines that are turned off do not have enough existing gas in the line to explode, you may still see some flames if sparks ignite the gas vapors. For the most part, this is not dangerous, but just in case, wear protective goggles and be extremely careful.

Tools Needed For Teeing Of An Existing Gas Line

To tee of an existing gas line, you are going to need a set of tools. If you do not have these tools, you can possibly rent them or borrow them from a friend. If you plan on doing projects in the future, you may consider buying tools.

Tools for teeing off a gas line:

  • Pipe cutter or reciprocating saw
  • A set of plumbing wrenches
  • Gas-rated Teflon tape (yellow)

If you are familiar with plumbing or working with gas lines, then you probably have plumbing wrenches and a pipe cutter lying around. Sometimes you will be working in tight spaces; this is where a reciprocating saw can get in and get the job done without a pipe cutter.

Make sure that the Teflon tape you use is gas-rated; they usually come in the color yellow to designate that they are safe to use with gas fittings.

Instructions For Teeing Of An Existing Gas Line

Now that you know what tools you need let’s get into how to tee off an existing gas line. There are only a handful of steps, and the job should not take more than 2 hours.

  • Turn off the gas. You can have the gas turned off at the meter, or the line you are working on may have a shutoff valve. We suggest shutting it off at the meter or having your gas company shut it off using the meter.
  • Let it sit. Wait around 20 minutes for the gas to dissipate. There may be some vapors left in the line, but not enough to cause any kind of explosion.
  • Find the line. Locate the line that you are going to tee off from. This may be near the water heater or at a gas stove; choose the line depending on where your new line will be going. Many people will tee off of one of these gas lines to add a line to a new appliance or utility.
  • Cut the pile. Cut the pipe using a pipe cutting wrench or a reciprocating saw with a metal cutting blade. The pipe cutting wrench will require you to cut the pipe in a 360-degree motion around the pipe. If you do not have room, a reciprocating saw works well. You just cut downwards onto the pipe. You will need to make two cuts and remove about a half-inch piece of pipe. We suggest using a reciprocating saw, it is faster, and it will be easier to get to the pipe to cut it.
  • Install the socket tee. Now install your 90-degree three socket tee to the new gas line. Make sure that your new gas pipe is the same thickness as the existing pipe and that the tee is the same size. Use the Teflon tape, and attach the tee.

And that is it; you will now have a pipe that is coming off the existing line that you can use to install a new appliance. Make sure that the tee is on correctly; you may have to thread the pipe, depending on what type of fitting you use.

Tips For Working On Gas Lines

Here are a few tips to help make sure you are going to get the job done correctly. Gas can be dangerous, so always take the correct precautions.

  • Safety always comes first. Make sure that you have turned the gas off, and wear protective safety glasses.
  • Always check your local codes and laws. It could be illegal for you to work on gas lines in your state. Check the regulations and laws.
  • If you are hiring someone, make sure they are licensed. Even if your state does not require a license, you will have peace of mind knowing they are professionals.
  • Use the right tools for the job. Do not use any tool that is not designed to cut metal piping. A pipe cutting wrench or reciprocating saw is standard.
  • Use a soap and water spray on the pipe after you are finished to look for any leaks before running the new appliance.

Why It’s Better To Hire A Professional For This Project

While it’s costly to hire a professional to tee off a gas line, it’s not as expensive as someone potentially losing their life. Messing this gas lines is serious business, which is why some states have a law stating that only a certified individual can work on them. This includes:

  • Installation
  • Removing
  • Teeing off
  • Diagnosing
  • Repairing

If you need any of the jobs done above, you need to check with your local authorities to find out if you are able to do this on your own. The laws surrounding this matter differ from state to state.

Penalties

Depending on what it is that you get cited for, you can be fined for up to $200,000 when handling a gas line without certification! Yes, $200,000… That’s the cost of a mid-class home! So, make sure you have all your bases covered before you take on a project like this.


Related Questions

Can anyone work on gas lines?

Most states require that a licensed gas plumber work on gas lines. If you live in a state that does not require a license, take all safety precautions, and if you are hiring someone, use this information to make sure they know what they are doing.

Who do you call to work on gas lines?

Call local plumbing companies to find a licensed gas plumber. A professional will be able to come in and tee off the line for you without a problem. The project should take no more than 1-2 hours.

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Wrapping It Up

When it comes to teeing off a gas line, the process is relatively easy. The process is not as involved as you might think; however, it is perilous if you don’t know what you’re doing. This is why some states have laws where only certified individuals can handle gas lines.

Before you begin your project, take the time to check into your local laws. After all, you don’t want to get caught doing something illegal and get slapped with a hefty fine. The fine would cost more than hiring a professional, which is why it’s probably a good idea to hire them anyway, especially when you’re in doubt.

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Chad Kilpatrick
Chad Kilpatrick

I'm a writer that is passionate about home improvements, remodeling, and renovating. I enjoy learning new skills and techniques and sharing them with others.

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