How to Soften a Joint in Plumbing
- 1). Look around for components that could be damaged from the heat of the torch, such as electrical wiring, nearby wood structure members, PVC plumbing lines and insulation with paper facing. Move objects out of the way if possible; if they cannot be moved, place a heat shield between the work area and the item in question.
- 2). Turn off the main water valve and drain the water out of the piping. Usually opening all the water spigots is sufficient to drain the piping; however, there may be a drain valve located at the low point of the piping.
- 3). Put on a pair of safety goggles. Turn on a propane torch and heat up the joint. For larger pipes, move the torch around the pipe to heat all sides evenly.
- 4). Grasp the pipe with a pair of channel-lock pliers once you see the solder begin to melt and use it to pull the piping apart at the joint. Turn off the torch and wipe off any excess solder with a wet rag.
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