How to Install a Gas Cooktop
It’s easy to install a gas cooktop. But you will need some tools and knowledge. You will need a Phillips screwdriver, a wrench, a gas pipe, and some sealant gel for the pipe joints.
If you have doubts about installation, you should get it done with a technician’s help.
How Difficult Is a Gas Cooktop Installation?
Installing a gas cooktop can be difficult and is often best left to a professional. To install a gas cooktop, you need to have a licensed gasfitter do the job for you. This is because many safety precautions must be taken when installing a gas appliance.
Gas cooktops are popular for many homeowners because they provide an even heat distribution that is not always possible with electric ovens.
Gas Cooktop Clearance Requirements
However, when choosing a gas cooktop, one crucial consideration is the required clearance of combustible materials. Minimum clearances must be met to install a gas stove safely. These clearances are in place to prevent fires and other safety hazards.
You can follow the clearance requirements for Australian Standard here AG/601-AS5601
Some common clearance requirements are :
- ●600mm from a combustible surface vertically
- ●20mm clearance from a combustible surface horizontally
- ●750mm distance to exhaust fan
How to Install a Gas Cooktop – a Brief Guide
Replacing a gas stove top or installing a new stove top counter is not very tough, but you will need some tools and skills to do it.
Here are the most common steps and tips to follow if you install a gas cooktop on your own.
If you are buy gas cooktops from Goldlinecorp, the most common dimensions are 930mm * 450 mm. Cut out size 885 mm * 405 mm.
Thus be sure to check the size to understand if the cooktop will fit in or not.
Remove the Existing Cooktop
If your kitchen already has an existing cooktop, you will need to remove it first.
First, turn off the stove’s gas supply at the valve. The gas supply and electric connection are placed right under the gas cooktop.
Use your wrench to loosen and remove the flexible gas line from the brass adapter on the cooktop. Finally, unscrew and remove the brass adapter from the cooktop’s gas pipe.
You might need to push the gas cooktop to come off from the cut-in.
Make sure that you have the proper tools for the job. You’ll need a pair of wrenches- one to fit the flexible gas line and one to fit the brass adapter that has been screwed to the cooktop’s gas pipe.
You can skip the step above if you are installing a new gas top in a new kitchen.
Prepare the Countertop
To install a gas cooktop, you must first clean the countertop and the area around the cooktop. Remove any old grease or silicone sealant on the edges of the old cook-top. Next, you will need to prepare the surface of the countertop. This may involve cutting a hole in the countertop for the gas line and installing a new countertop.
Test if The New Cooktop Fits
To check whether your new cooktop fits the cutout, just gently drop the gas cooktop on the cutout. If it falls right in,you can move forward with the next step without any issues.
If your cooktop came with brackets, then you can fit them now.
Screw the Connector to The Gas Line
When working with gas lines, it is important to use the correct fittings and ensure they are leak-proof. One way to do this is by taping the unbeveled end of the connector fitting before screwing on the connector fitting. Make sure to use Teflon tape for a tight seal. Additionally, it is never recommended to screw nuts onto black fittings or pipes because these tend to leak over time.
Connect the Electrical Supply if Any
You need to connect the electrical supply when installing your gas cooktop. The power cord should be routed so that it will not rub on any sharp edges, obstruct piping, or the final lowering of the cooktop into its countertop opening.
Be careful: most likely, the manufacturer of your gas cooktop will specify that the electrical cord must be connected to a properly-wired and grounded electrical receptacle. This receptacle is typically located below the counter and is meant for this purpose. Do not modify the cord, and do not cheat on the grounding connections.
Connect Gas Regulator & Gas Supply Piping to The Cooktop
If you are using LPG or propane, you need to use a gas regulator at the bottom of the gas cooktop. You will see arrow markings on the regulator, which tells us that this side of the regulator should be pointed towards the cooktop.
To fix the regulator, apply some Teflon-based pipe sealant, put the regulator on the pipe, and use a wrench to tighten it.
Then you have to add the connector that will connect the LPG cylinder to the gas cooktop. And always apply pipe-joint compound to the joint.
Now you will need to fit the compression pipe with a wrench.
Now, you can connect the regulator before placing the gas cooktop in the cutout. Or you can join the regulator and the gas pipe after placing the gas cooktop in the cutout.
Check for Gas Leaks
Use a leak detection fluid on every joint to check if there is a gas leak. You can also use soapy water to do this test too. If you see bubbles, then it means that gas is leaking.
If you smell gas or see bubbles, you should turn off the connection. And investigate why the gas leak is happening first.
Most of the time, a little more tightening of the joint with sealant material would do.
But if you are not sure what to do, then take the help of a technician to solve the issue to avoid any dangerous hazard.
Final Test of The Cooktop Installation
Turn on each of the burners one by one. At first, you would need to give it some time so that all the air gets out first. And if you see the gas cooktop lit up, your job is finished.
Do check all the gas burners, though.
If you see uneven flames, then you should adjust the burner caps.
Does Gas Range Need Electricity?
A gas oven requires electricity- it needs the power to run the igniter and the light. Most of the time, when people think they’re losing power in their home, they’re just not using any appliances that require power- like a gas oven.
Can You Replace Burners on A Gas Stove?
Yes, you can replace burners on a gas stove. The process is relatively easy and can be completed in a few minutes. All you need is a screwdriver and the new burner head. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when installing the new burner head.
Conclusion
I have outlined the basic steps to installing a new gas cooktop. Replacing a gas stove top or installing a stove top counter is not very tough, you will need tools and some skills to do it.
Goldline Gas cooktops are easy to install and come with all the required information to do it independently. If you are looking for a new gas cooktop. You should check them out here.