How to Install a Gas Range

While installing a gas range can be done by the homeowner, it is critical that you fully understand the safety concerns involved when installing. Because of the risks with gas leaks, it is crucial that all gas connections be secured tightly to remove the risk of leaks for the life of the range. Here are installation and safety guidelines that you can follow to safely install your new gas range. Keep in mind, this job requires an intermediate level of skill.

Step 1 - Prepare the Area

Make sure that you have adequate utility connections in the space where you are installing the gas range. You will need to have both a gas line with a range quality valve attached and a 110-volt outlet. If you do not have these two connectors, contact appropriate, licensed electricians and plumbers to install the needed utilities into the area. A qualified plumber can splice into an existing gas line and install a new one as well as the valve.

The electrical outlet needs to be grounded. Use an electrical ground tester to ensure a good ground. Just plug it into the outlet and the indicator lights will come on to indicate if the outlet is properly wired and grounded.

Clear the floor of any debris. If your range came with an anti-tip bracket, attach the wall connection to the wall and the other to the back of the range.

Hook the flex gas hose to the valve end. To make sure there are no leaks put Type T2 pipe joint compound around the male end before hooking the flex hose to the valve. Use the two wrenches to tighten the hose securely to the valve.

Step 2 - Install the Range

Be careful to not scratch the floor by using an appliance dolly to move the range. Adjust the range so it is close enough to your chosen space that the flex hose can reach the connector on the back without excessive stretching. Put ample amounts of Type T2 pipe joint compound on the male end and attach using the two wrenches to make sure they are tightly connected. A solution of dish soap and water should be applied on every connector between the range and the wall connection so that when the gas valve is turned ON the joints can be checked for bubbles. If you see bubbles, use the wrenches again to further tighten the connections.

Step 3 - Finishing Installation

When you are confident that there are no leaks in the gas flow, plug the power cord into the outlet and, using the appliance dolly, slowly insert the range into the space allotted for it. Make sure that the anti-tip bracket is in line. Extreme care must be taken when the range is put back into place not to crush or kink the flexible gas hose. The hose does flex but it is metal and with too much pressure it can crack. Finally, light each burner to make sure they light properly.