Gas safety essentials: Protecting your family and home

Gas is one of those home essentials that we don’t really think about, until something goes wrong. Whether it’s for heating, cooking, or hot water, gas is reliable, efficient, and cost-effective. But it also comes with a few risks if it’s not handled properly.

From recognising the signs of a gas leak to knowing when to call in a professional, a little knowledge goes a long way in keeping your home safe. In this guide, we’ll cover the essentials of gas safety so you can keep your family protected without breaking a sweat.

Recognising the signs of a gas leak

Gas leaks aren’t always obvious. Unlike in the movies, they don’t always come with a loud hiss or a cloud of smoke. The gas supplied to homes has a distinctive rotten egg smell, thanks to an added chemical called mercaptan, so you can usually smell a leak before you see any other signs.

What to watch for:

• Rotten egg smell: If you catch a whiff of something that smells like sulphur or rotten eggs, it’s a strong sign of a gas leak.
• Hissing sounds: A soft hiss or whooshing sound near gas appliances or pipes could mean gas is escaping.
• Dead plants or grass: If plants near a gas line suddenly die, it might be due to a gas leak cutting off their oxygen supply.
• Physical symptoms: Headaches, dizziness, nausea, or feeling unusually tired indoors can be a sign of a slow leak.

What to do:

• Don’t turn on lights, appliances, or anything that could cause a spark.
• Open windows and doors for ventilation.
• Turn off the gas supply at the meter if it’s safe to do so.
• Get outside and call a licensed gasfitter immediately.

Carbon monoxide: The silent danger

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless gas that’s produced when gas appliances don’t burn fuel completely. It’s often called the “silent killer” because it’s impossible to detect without a proper alarm. Even a small CO leak can cause serious health problems, or worse, if it goes unnoticed.

How to protect your home:

• Install CO alarms: Make sure you have at least one carbon monoxide alarm on each level of your home, especially near bedrooms.
• Service appliances regularly: Gas heaters, cooktops, and water heaters should be inspected and serviced by a licensed gasfitter every two years.
• Check ventilation: Blocked vents can cause CO to build up indoors. Keep vents clear and make sure exhaust fans are working properly.

If your CO alarm goes off, don’t ignore it, get outside immediately and call for help.

Safe use of gas appliances

Using gas appliances safely is mostly about common sense and regular checks. Even something as simple as leaving a pot on the stove unattended can quickly turn into a fire hazard.

Tips for safe use:

• Check the flame: A steady blue flame means your appliance is working efficiently. A yellow or orange flame could indicate incomplete combustion, meaning it’s time to call a gasfitter.
• Turn off when not in use: This might seem obvious, but it’s easy to forget to turn off heaters or cooktops, especially if you’re in a rush.
• Keep flammable items away: Curtains, tea towels, and paper should be kept well clear of stoves and heaters.

For outdoor BBQs:

• Check the hose and connections for cracks or leaks before lighting up.
• Store gas bottles outside in a well-ventilated area, never in the garage or under the house.

Gas heater safety: Staying warm without the risk

Gas heaters are great for keeping your home warm in winter, but they need a bit of maintenance to stay safe. A dirty or poorly maintained heater can produce carbon monoxide, which can quickly turn a cosy night in front of the TV into a dangerous situation.

Safety tips:

• Service heaters every two years: A licensed gasfitter can clean and inspect your heater to make sure it’s working safely and efficiently.
• Check ventilation: Ensure the room has adequate ventilation when using a gas heater, open a window slightly to let fresh air in.
• Use only approved heaters: Portable gas heaters that aren’t certified for indoor use can produce dangerous levels of CO.

Regular inspections: Prevention is better than cure

The best way to prevent gas leaks and hazards is to get regular inspections by a qualified gasfitter. Even if you haven’t noticed any problems, a professional inspection can catch issues before they become dangerous.

What’s involved in a gas safety check:

• Inspecting gas lines for leaks or corrosion.
• Testing gas pressure to ensure it’s within safe limits
• Checking the condition of gas appliances and flues.
• Making sure ventilation and exhaust systems are working properly.
  
  

How often?

Experts recommend a gas safety check at least every two years, more often if you have older appliances or if you’ve noticed any signs of trouble.