Gas Fitting Safety Tips Every Homeowner in Mandurah Should Know

Gas appliances provide incredible comfort and convenience to our homes, from instant hot water to perfectly cooked meals. However, the systems that deliver this convenience require proper care. Understanding the basics of gas safety is not just good practice; it’s essential for protecting your home and family.

As your local experts in plumbing and gas fitting, we’ve put together some crucial safety tips every Mandurah homeowner should know. These simple checks and habits can prevent serious incidents and ensure your gas systems operate efficiently and safely.

Recognising the Signs of a Gas Leak

The most immediate threat associated with gas systems is a leak. Natural gas is odourless, so suppliers add a chemical called mercaptan to give it a distinct “rotten egg” or sulphur smell. This is your primary warning sign.

What to Do If You Smell Gas:

1. Don’t Panic: Stay calm and act quickly.
2. No Flames or Sparks: Do not smoke, light matches, or operate any electrical switches, including lights. Using your mobile phone or landline can also create a spark.
3. Ventilate the Area: If it’s safe to do so, open all doors and windows to let the gas disperse.
4. Turn Off the Gas: If you know where your gas meter is and can access it safely, turn the valve to the “off” position. The handle is usually “off” when it is at a right angle to the pipe.
5. Evacuate and Call for Help: Leave the property immediately. Once you are a safe distance away, call your gas provider or an emergency plumber in Mandurah. Do not go back inside until a professional has declared it safe.

If you find yourself searching for an “emergency plumber near me” for a suspected gas leak, it’s a situation that demands immediate professional attention.

Regular Maintenance is Key to Safety

Prevention is always better than a cure. Your gas appliances, like your car, need regular servicing to run safely and efficiently. A professional service will not only extend the life of your appliances but also identify potential issues before they become dangerous.

Tips for Maintaining Your Gas Appliances:

• Schedule Professional Servicing: Have all your gas appliances (heaters, cooktops, hot water systems) serviced by a licensed gas fitter at least every two years.
• Look for Soot or Stains: Black soot marks or staining around an appliance can indicate incomplete combustion, which may produce harmful carbon monoxide.
• Check the Flame Colour: The flame on your gas cooktop or heater should be a crisp blue colour. A yellow or orange flame suggests a problem that needs a professional’s attention.
• Keep Appliances Clean: Ensure your appliances are free from dust and that vents are not blocked. Clean your cooktop regularly to prevent food and grease build-up from becoming a fire hazard.

The Dangers of DIY Gas Fitting

In Australia, it is illegal and extremely dangerous for anyone other than a licensed gas fitter to perform any gas fitting work. This includes installing, repairing, or modifying any gas appliance or piping. The risks of incorrect work are severe, including gas leaks, fires, explosions, and carbon monoxide poisoning.

Hiring a licensed professional from RDF Plumbing guarantees that all work is completed to strict Australian Standards. It protects your family, your property, and your insurance policies, which can be voided by illegal gas work.