How to Remove Copper Pipe Valves

Anticipate spending about 15 minutes removing the valve.

Copper pipes are commonly used as water supply lines because they resist corrosion and provide a smooth surface through which water can flow. Copper pipes are often fitted with a valve to stop the flow of water when necessary. As with other fittings used with copper pipes, these valves are secured to the pipes with solder, a material that liquefies when heated and hardens when cool. To remove the valve, you must heat the solder to release the pipes.

Things You'll Need

• Water main wrench
• Wrench
• Handheld propane torch
• Torch striker
• Heavy leather gloves
• Pliers

Instructions

1. Turn off the water supply at the shut-off valve located next to the water meter with a water main wrench.

2. Open the highest and lowest water faucets in the home to drain the water from the pipes. For example, if the home is two stories, turn on a faucet upstairs and downstairs.

3. Remove the valve stem, meaning the portion of the valve with the handle, by rotating the stem in a counterclockwise direction with a wrench. Removing the valve stem prevents damaging the rubber or plastic components in the stem when heating the copper pipe.

4. Put on heavy leather gloves. Light a handheld propane torch -- some need a striker; others are push-button -- and pass the flame over the body of the valve until the solder between the seams of the valve and the copper pipes begins to bubble, then pull the pipes away from the valve with pliers.

Tips & Warnings

• Never use a cigarette lighter to light the handheld torch.

References

• “Ten Pound Books: Home Repair Guide”; Creative Publishing International; 2007