Are you planning a switch from electricity to natural gas in your home? If so, then you’ll be joining the 74% of Australian homeowners who are already using gas as their primary energy source. If you’ve already begun the process of having your property assessed for linking to the gas line, then you and your family will need to brush up on your gas safety tips.
The most crucial aspect of installing any gas appliances in your home involves consulting the gas leak plumber Brisbane residents rely on for all their installations, repairs, and upgrades. Your plumber will not only ensure that your gas systems are operating smoothly, but will also share valuable tips and pointers to keep your home safe.
Contents
- 1 Gas Safety is Key in Planning, Use, and Maintenance
- 1.1 1. Understand How Gas Gets to Your Home
- 1.2 2. Learn to Safely Operate Your Gas Appliances and Systems
- 1.3 3. Always be on the Look Out for Warning Signs
- 1.4 4. Know the Emergency Protocols
- 1.5 – Step 1: Turn off all gas appliances as well as the main gas supply, which is usually at the gas meter. Turn the valve to the off position.
- 1.6 – Step 2: Call your local gas plumber or 24-hour plumber immediately.
- 1.7 – Step 3: Open as many doors and windows as possible to provide ventilation.
- 1.8 – Step 4: Ensure that no one lights a match or cigarette in a home where a leak is suspected.
- 1.9 – Step 5: Evacuate everyone (including pets) from the home. Call the emergency services if anyone is feeling drowsy and exhibiting flu-like symptoms.
- 1.10 5. Include Gas Alarms in Your Home
- 1.11 6. Never Attempt Gas Repairs
- 2 Final Thoughts
Gas Safety is Key in Planning, Use, and Maintenance
Using gas may be convenient and more affordable, but it also comes with a huge risk. If not used as safely as possible, the harmful effects of gas can be fatal. It’s with this in mind that our team of experts have compiled a list of safety features that any gas users should be aware of when using gas.
1. Understand How Gas Gets to Your Home
For you to be able to use gas, it needs to be available in your area. Your home will then be linked to the main gas lines. This can be a complex procedure, but it will be well worth it in the long run. Wondering where gas comes from?
Essentially, natural gas is extracted from underground reservoirs found on and offshore. A network of underground pipelines spanning more than 23,000km enables energy suppliers to get gas to your home or business. Gas plumbers ensure that these pipelines and the appliances they connect to are functioning safely.
2. Learn to Safely Operate Your Gas Appliances and Systems
The number one rule your gas plumber wants you to be aware of is the correct usage of all appliances and devices connected to your gas lines. This can include your water heater, cooking equipment, outdoor BBQ, and even an energy-safe refrigerator.
Plumbing experts warn that you should never only use these appliances as recommended by the manufacturers. You should also ensure that everyone in the home knows how to safely use and turn off each appliance. Everyone should also know how to turn the main gas switch on and off in an emergency.
3. Always be on the Look Out for Warning Signs
The gas plumber will also advise that all users should ensure that everyone in the home or business knows what the warning signs of gas leaks are. A key sign includes a blue flame on your cooking appliances. A healthy gas line will have a slow, yellow, and orange flame. When your flame suddenly becomes blue, it’s a clear sign that there’s an issue.
Another obvious sign that your gas is leaking is the smell of rotten eggs. While gas is naturally odourless, gas suppliers add a natural chemical that resembles sulphur. This is so that users can identify a leak as quickly as possible.
4. Know the Emergency Protocols
The next gas rule to know is that there’s no such thing as a minor gas leak. Any gas leak is an emergency that can become fatal if left unattended. When you notice a gas leak, follow these tips:
– Step 1: Turn off all gas appliances as well as the main gas supply, which is usually at the gas meter. Turn the valve to the off position.
– Step 2: Call your local gas plumber or 24-hour plumber immediately.
– Step 3: Open as many doors and windows as possible to provide ventilation.
– Step 4: Ensure that no one lights a match or cigarette in a home where a leak is suspected.
– Step 5: Evacuate everyone (including pets) from the home. Call the emergency services if anyone is feeling drowsy and exhibiting flu-like symptoms.
5. Include Gas Alarms in Your Home
A huge safety feature would be to have a gas alarm fitted in your home. Typically called carbon monoxide alarms, these devices work similarly to fire alarms and will alert you when higher-than-usual levels of carbon monoxide are detected. Carbon monoxide is usually found in the home when a blockage occurs in the gas duct or exhaust pipe for waste gases.
6. Never Attempt Gas Repairs
It’s crucial to note that Australian Law dictates that only a certified gas plumber can do any work on your gas lines, plumbing, or appliances. This means that DIY jobs won’t be compliant with local legislation. Keep in mind that DIY jobs can be highly dangerous and should never be attempted.
Your local 24-hour plumber will have the necessary certification to deal with your gas-related issues. Using a qualified plumber also ensures that the correct tools are used, and only certified spare parts and components are used. Your plumber will also be able to recommend the safest and most energy-efficient solutions and components for your repair or upgrades.
Final Thoughts
By following these simple guidelines and referring all your gas queries to your expert plumber will see your family being able to safely use this natural resource in no time!
