Many people don’t realise how dangerous it is to work with gas fittings in their homes.
Gas is an extremely flammable commodity; if not handled correctly, it can lead to disastrous consequences. That’s why it’s always best to leave gasfitting to the professionals.
This blog post will cover why you should always use professionals for your gas fitting.
What is Gas Fitting?
Gas fitting is the process of installing, repairing, and maintaining gas lines and appliances. It includes everything from ovens and furnaces to water heaters and dryers. Because gas is such an important part of our everyday lives, gas lines must be properly installed and maintained.
Types of Gas Lines
There are two main types of gas lines – rigid and flexible.
Rigid gas lines are made of metal and are often used for underground lines. They are more durable but also more difficult to install. Flexible gas lines are made of plastic and are often used for appliances. They are easier to install but less durable.
Gas appliances must be properly connected to a gas line to function safely. All connections must be checked for leaks before use. A qualified technician will know how to install and maintain your gas lines and appliances properly.
Why You Should Always Leave Gas Fitting to a Professional
A professional gas fitter is knowledgeable, experienced and highly trained in using natural gas. They understand the complexities of the job and know what needs to be done to keep you safe. With a gasfitter, it’s easier to follow safety protocols that protect you from harm. An inexperienced amateur installation can lead to injury and result in a much bigger problem, like carbon monoxide poisoning or an explosion.
Making sure that every component is installed properly so as not to cause further danger is important – so trust in a professional, as none of us would want our lives taken lightly!
Gas Leaks Are Extremely Dangerous
Natural gas is highly flammable, and even a small gas leak can cause an explosion. That’s why it’s always better to err on the side of caution and hire a professional gas fitter who will know how to spot a gas leak and fix it safely. If you’re not a trained professional, you might only realise a gas leak once it’s too late.
Incorrect Installation Can Lead to Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
If your gas appliances need to be installed correctly, they can produce carbon monoxide instead of heat or hot water. Carbon monoxide is odourless and colourless, so you might not even realise the problem until it’s too late.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. In severe cases, carbon monoxide poisoning can be fatal.
You Could Void Your Home Insurance Policy
Most home insurance policies will not cover damages that occur as a result of DIY projects gone wrong. So if something goes wrong while trying to install or repair your gas appliances, you could be left footing the bill for any resulting damages—which could be significant if there was an explosion or fire.
The Dangers of DIY Gas Fitting
Many people think they can save money by doing their gas fitting, but this is a dangerous misconception. Working with gas is unlike other materials; it requires specialised training and knowledge. If you attempt to do your own gas fitting without being properly trained, you could end up causing a gas leak or an explosion. The risks aren’t worth it.
Signs You Need Gas Line Repair or Replacement Services
Most homeowners don’t give their gas line much thought until something goes wrong. A gas leak, for example, is not only a cause for alarm but can also be dangerous if not dealt with promptly.
Fortunately, there are some telltale signs that your gas line may need to be repaired or replaced. By being on the lookout for these warning signs, you can take action before a small problem turns into a big—and potentially dangerous—one.
If you notice any warning signs, it’s important to call a professional immediately to assess the situation and make the necessary repairs or replacements. Do not attempt to fix the problem yourself, as this could be extremely dangerous—even deadly—if not done correctly.
Unpleasant ‘Rotten Egg’ Smell
One clear sign of this is an unfamiliar and unpleasant ‘rotten egg’ smell. This odourless, colourless, and tasteless gas is an additive that alerts people that the gas supply leaks. In these cases, any homeowner needs to enlist the help of an experienced gas fitter to investigate the source and repair any damages.
In some instances, even faint smells can indicate a problem in the gas line, so a professional should check all suspicious odours before further harm is done.
Your Bills Are Higher Than Usual
Have you noticed that your energy bills have been higher than normal lately? It could be due to a gas leak, as natural gas is flammable and will escape through any cracks or holes in your gas line. The more natural gas escapes, the higher your energy bills will be.
There Is Water Around Your Gas Meter
If you see water pooling around your home’s natural gas meter, this could be a sign of a serious problem with your main gas line. While water and natural gas don’t mix, they can come into contact with each other if there is a break or crack in your gas line. If you see water around your meter, call a qualified technician immediately, as this could signify an impending explosion.
Your Gas Appliances Aren’t Working Properly
Another sign that you may need your gas line repaired or replaced is if your appliances are no longer working properly. If gas stoves aren’t igniting properly or a furnace isn’t providing enough heat, it could be due to an issue with your natural gas supply.
You Hear Strange Noises Coming from Your Gas Line
If you start hearing strange noises coming from your home’s natural gas line, such as hissing, popping, or whistling, this could be another sign that you have a leak. These noises are caused by escaping natural gas and should be addressed immediately by a qualified technician before they lead to further damage.
How to Prevent Issues Before They Start
Many homeowners only think about their gas lines once there’s a problem. But the truth is gas lines need to be regularly maintained to prevent small issues from turning into big (and expensive) problems.
Get Your Gas Lines Inspected Regularly
The first and most important thing you can do to prevent gas line issues is to have them inspected by a certified professional regularly. Gas line inspectors have the training and experience to spot potential problems before they become full-blown emergencies. They can also advise you on the best way to fix any issues they find. Most importantly, they can help you avoid dangerous situations like gas leaks.
Install Gas Line Alarms
Another way to prevent gas line issues is to install alarms that notify you if there’s a problem. There are various types of alarms available, and the type you need will depend on the gas lines you have in your home. For example, if you have an all-natural gas system, you might want an alarm that monitors for carbon monoxide and natural gas leaks. Or, if you have a propane-fueled system, you might want an alarm that only monitors for propane leaks. No matter what type of system you have, though, there’s an alarm out there that’s right for you.
How to Find a Reputable Gas Fitter
When you’re ready to hire a gas fitter, take the time to do your research to find a reputable tradesperson who will do the job right.
Start by asking your friends, family members, and neighbours for recommendations. Once you have a few names, check out online reviews to see what other people say about each gas fitter’s work.
Make sure that you get multiple quotes before making a final decision to ensure you’re getting the best possible price for the job.
Final Thoughts
We hope this blog post has helped inform you about some of the dangers associated with working with gas and how to keep your home safe from potential hazards. Gas leaks are extremely dangerous and can easily lead to fires or explosions if not dealt with properly. That’s why it’s always best to leave gasfitting to the professionals who know what they’re doing.
About All Elements Plumbing & Gas
All Elements Plumbing & Gas is your local gas fitting expert. We are licensed and experienced gas fitters who can help you year-round with any gas work in your home or business.
We can help with the following:
- Gas emergencies
- Gas leaks and safety checks
- New gas appliance installs
- Gas hose and pipes repairs and replacements
- LPG and natural gas conversions
- Repairs and replacements of gas appliances
- Gas Hot Water services
- Servicing of gas heaters (all makes and models)
- Repairs to gas heaters (all makes and models)
Contact us today for a free consultation.
