I am hooking up a small Mr. Heater propane heater for emergency use in case of a power outage. I am using black pipe and fittings. The regulator is a low-pressure type. A few questions:
1) the shutoff ball valve has a side tap. I'm assuming this is instead of a tee with bushing and plug for a test gauge connection. Is the tap supposed to be on the upstream (pressure side) or on the downstream side of the valve?
2) for the union, is there a specific type for propane service? Looks like the one I have has a brass seat. And are unions directional, meaning is the female half with the nut to be upstream or downstream? Maybe it doesn't matter.
3) I plan to use the yellow PTFE thread seal tape (probable most refer to it as teflon tape). Assuming this is okay?
And of course, I will use a leak detector solution when all is hooked up and pressurized. Any additional comments or suggestions?
Thanks.

[www.homedepot.com]

Your shut off should look like this with only 2 ports

The union can be oriented in either position and be brass or black malleable fittings

As for the tef tape it should say propane or natural gas

And remember the exaust is poisonous in most heaters and must penetrate to outside air



Edited 1 times.

NO NO NO NO NO do NOT NOT NOT NOT NOT use any of the shown valves for gas service


[www.bing.com]


unless you enjoy loud noise(s) as in Ka BOOM



while some images may, at first glance, appear to be 'gas cocks' they are NOT, repeat NOT and WILL release gas when closed (as is their function when underground and used for water service)



you really really really need a professional AND a building permit to 'mess with' gas

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"Measure Twice & Cut Once" - Retired U.A. Local 1 & 638