How To Choose and Use a Blowtorch

Blowtorches are useful tools for various home improvement projects, especially for soldering copper pipes. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional plumber, choosing the right blowtorch for your needs will help you achieve successful results. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of blowtorches available, their uses, and how to operate them safely. In the video above, This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates the right techniques for using blowtorches and explains the differences between various models.

Types of Blowtorches

When it comes to blowtorches, there are several options available to homeowners and professionals. Each type has its own advantages and is suited for different applications. Let’s explore the most common types of blowtorches.

Propane Torch

Propane torches are popular among homeowners due to their affordability and versatility. These torches use propane gas as fuel, which is readily available and relatively inexpensive. Here are some key features of propane torches:

• Affordable option for DIY enthusiasts
• Easy to use and control
• Equipped with a pencil-tip flame for precise heat application
• Ideal for working with 1/2-inch copper pipes
• Readily available fuel sources
• Suitable for small- to medium-sized jobs

While propane torches are great for smaller tasks, they have limitations. For larger projects, you might require a more potent torch capable of maintaining higher temperatures. Propane torches are best suited for basic home improvement projects and occasional use.

MAPP Gas Torch

MAPP (methylacetylene-propadiene propane) gas torches are a step up from propane torches in terms of heat output. They are often preferred by professionals for larger jobs. Here’s what to know about MAPP gas torches:

• Better suited for professional use or advanced DIY projects
• Can be too hot for smaller fittings if not used carefully
• Ideal for working with copper pipes 3/4-inch or larger
• More expensive than propane but offers faster heating
• Produces a hotter flame than propane (about 15% hotter)

MAPP gas torches offer greater efficiency and faster completion times due to their higher heat output. However, they also require more careful handling to prevent overheating and damage to the materials being worked on. For complex and extensive plumbing jobs, MAPP gas torches provide the necessary power.

Acetylene Torch

Acetylene torches are primarily used by professionals due to their extremely high heat output. While they’re not typically necessary for most home plumbing projects, it’s worth knowing about them:

• Not recommended for typical home use or DIY projects
• Produces the hottest flame of all common torch types
• Requires special handling and safety precautions
• Used for high-intensity, heavy-duty industrial applications

Acetylene torches are the go-to for heavy-duty applications, including specialized plumbing or construction scenarios such as cutting through metal or welding components. Homeowners should consider whether their project truly necessitates such a powerful tool.

Choosing the Right Blowtorch

Selecting the appropriate blowtorch for your needs depends on several factors. Consider the following when making your choice.

Project Size and Frequency

For hobbyists and occasional fixers tackling occasional small projects, basic propane torches are cost-effective and efficient. If your home improvement projects occur more regularly or are larger in scale, upgrading to a MAPP gas torch can save time and ensure durability. Professionals handling diverse plumbing tasks benefit from maintaining an assortment of torches suited for different scenarios.

Pipe Size

Consider the size of fittings you’ll be working with most often. Use a propane torch with a pencil tip for 1/2-inch copper pipes and smaller. Opt for a MAPP gas torch for pipes 3/4-inch and larger.

Given that soldering efficacy changes with pipe dimensions, maintaining the appropriate torch ensures quality workmanship. Smaller pipes need controlled, precise flames, while larger pipes benefit from more robust heating elements.

Ease of Use

Usability greatly impacts the work experience. Auto-ignition eliminates the need for additional lighting tools, enhancing user convenience. Similarly, ergonomic designs reduce strain, enabling prolonged usage without discomfort. Adjustable flame controls offer versatility, so you can adapt to diverse project requirements seamlessly.

Using a Blowtorch Safely

Safety should always be your top priority when working with blowtorches. Follow these guidelines to ensure safe operation:

• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including safety glasses and heat-resistant gloves.
• Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergencies.
• Inspect your torch and fuel canister for leaks or damage before each use.
• Never leave a lit torch unattended.
• Allow heated materials to cool completely before touching or moving them.

Blowtorches, while effective, pose significant risks if improperly handled. Proactive safety measures minimize accidents, and regular inspection and proper storage enhance long-term safety.

Soldering Copper Pipes With a Blowtorch

One of the most common applications for blowtorches in home improvement is soldering copper pipes. Trethewey demonstrates the proper technique in the video above. Here’s a step-by-step guide to soldering copper pipes:

1. Clean the outside of the pipe and the inside of the fitting with an emery cloth to remove any oxidation or debris.
2. Apply flux to both the pipe and fitting surfaces to be joined. The flux helps the solder flow and adhere properly.
3. Assemble the pipe and fitting, ensuring they’re fully seated.
4. Light your blowtorch and adjust the flame. For propane torches, use the pencil tip for precise heat application.
5. Apply the tip of the flame to the joint, moving it evenly around the connection.
6. Once the flux begins to bubble and flow, it’s time to apply the solder.
7. Touch the solder to the joint on the opposite side from where you’re applying heat. The heat will draw the solder around the entire joint.
8. Remove the heat once you see the solder has been drawn completely around the joint.
9. Allow the joint to cool naturally. Don’t disturb or stress the joint until it has fully cooled.

This process ensures secure, leak-free connections in plumbing systems. Skipping any part or rushing the cooling process can compromise the joint’s integrity.

Tips for Effective Blowtorch Use

To get the most out of your blowtorch and achieve professional-quality results, keep these tips in mind:

• Practice on scrap pieces before working on your actual project. Scrap material allows you to refine your technique without the pressure of a live project.
• Maintain the proper distance between the flame and the workpiece to avoid overheating.
• Use the hottest part of the flame, which is typically at the tip of the inner cone.
• Keep the flame moving to heat the joint evenly and prevent damage to the pipe or fitting.
• Clean your torch regularly to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Blowtorch Maintenance and Storage

Proper maintenance and storage of your blowtorch will ensure its longevity and safe operation. Follow these guidelines:

• Store your blowtorch and fuel canisters in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Disconnect the torch from the fuel canister when not in use.
• Regularly check for leaks or damage to the torch and fuel connections.
• Clean the torch tip periodically to prevent clogs and ensure a consistent flame.
• Replace worn or damaged parts promptly to maintain safe operation.

Caring for your blowtorch extends its lifespan and boosts performance. By storing tools in appropriate conditions and conducting routine checks, you reduce the likelihood of malfunction.

Adding Versatility to Your Toolset With Blowtorch

A variety of attachments and accessories can expand the functionality of your blowtorch. Consider the following additions:

• Extension hoses: Provide greater flexibility and reach for hard-to-access areas
• Heat spreaders: Ideal for distributing heat evenly over larger areas without concentrating too much on one spot
• Interchangeable tips: Allow for different flame shapes and sizes, suitable for various job types

These attachments allow you to tailor your blowtorching experience to specific needs. Investing in these tools can enhance your torch’s versatility and make it a more valuable addition to your toolkit.