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In most cases, yes, it’s safe to light a gas water heater manually, but you should shut the gas off first, open a window, and let the space air out for about 10 minutes. Modern water heaters shut the gas off entirely if the pilot light goes out, but airing out the area beforehand is good practice and will ensure it’s safe to relight your pilot light manually. Just make sure you turn the gas valve to “pilot” before lighting. If the light keeps going out or won’t light at all, call in a professional.

If your existing gas line requires a simple fix or a small replacement and it's easy to access, you can expect it to take one or two hours. A more complex project like fixing an underground gas line can take several days to complete. Consult a gas plumber near you with the specifics of your project to receive an accurate estimate of the price and time commitment.

Safety steps include proper vent installation, connector tightness, and leak testing. A safe environment must be maintained throughout.

The best sealant for gas pipes is usually a pipe joint compound, or pipe dope. It creates a durable, leak-proof seal that is resistant to high pressure and vibrations, and it doesn’t break down like tape can. Yellow Teflon tape, or PTFE tape, can also be a good option and is a safe and reliable sealant for gas pipes when you or a pro apply it correctly.