Have you recently decided to add natural gas to your home? If so, this will require extensive professional installation, as your home will need to be connected to a natural gas line. Once this process is finalised, you will be able to take advantage of the benefits of using gas.
If at some point a gas leak occurs, it’s essential to opt for a gas leak plumber to do the repairs or new fittings. There are a few crucial reasons why even the smallest repair should never be attempted as a DIY job. This post highlights the most significant safety reasons to keep in mind.
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Gas Repairs Require Professional Intervention
While gas can be super convenient, it’s important to keep in mind that it can also be highly dangerous. Especially if you have a leak on your main line or from one of your appliances. It’s with this aspect in mind that Australian Law dictates that this type of work should ever only be conducted by a gas fitter or certified plumber, no matter how small the issue is. Here are few of the reasons why.
1. Working with Gas is Dangerous
A lot of home plumbing can be done as a DIY job. Changing worn taps or old valves or unblocking minor blockages can all be done with little fuss. However, gas issues aren’t that easy to repair. The main reason for this is the highly flammable nature of gas.
All gas-related issues should be referred to a certified gas plumber as they will have the necessary experience to perform the installations or repairs safely and in accordance with the necessary safety protocols. The plumber will also be able to assess the other gas plumbing components to ensure that your small leak doesn’t have a much larger issue brewing.
It’s essential to know the telltale signs that you may have a gas issue in your home. The most common signs to look out for include the following:
- A rotten egg smell similar to sulphur. This smell is created by mercaptan, which gas manufacturers place in gas supplies to make a leak more noticeable.
- A strange, whistling or hissing sound near the faulty gas leak.
- Dead houseplants in the space where you have gas lines.
- Higher than usual gas bills.
- Occupants of the house constantly feeling tired, nauseous, or displaying other symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning. These often present as flu symptoms.
2. Eradicates Switch-On Appliance Faults
If you’ve recently bought a new appliance, it can be quite disappointing when you switch it on and it doesn’t work. Getting a replacement unit from your retailer may be time-consuming. To avoid this, manufacturers may require a professional to install any appliances. In most instances, this is a requirement that ensures that your warranty is honoured. Having a professional install the appliance will also reduce the likelihood of having to deal with a switch-on fault.
3. Creates Opportunity for an Updated Gas Assessment
If you’re having a leak repaired, or a new appliance installed, you can also request your plumber to perform a complete gas assessment. In this process, the plumber will check all the gas lines as well as the appliances that feed off these lines.
This includes your indoor and outdoor spaces as well as your gas heater. You’ll then be aware of any potential issues that, if left unattended, can create much bigger issues. Being made aware of potential plumbing issues also allows you to budget and plan the necessary repairs rather than having it present as an after-hours issue.
4. It’s the Law
Whether you think you can install your gas appliances or not, the main reason why you should ditch your DIY idea is that Australian Law regulates that all gas fittings must be done by a professional. This is because any work on the gas line is not only dangerous but can also affect neighbours or businesses in surrounding areas.
Certified plumbers will obtain any permits and know how to perform installations while at the same time adhering to local legislation and safety protocols. All gas plumbers would have to complete the required training in the Gas Supply Industry Operations.
This will allow them to work on the part of the gas line that extends off your property, should this become necessary. Keep in mind that as a layperson, you won’t have this type of access. Your plumber will also issue you the necessary reports and certificates to prove that work on your property was conducted safely and legally.
Final Thought
Many Australians prefer the simplicity and convenience of using natural gas in their homes and outdoor entertainment areas. Whether you need to upgrade an existing gas system or you want to have one installed for the first time, it’s essential to use a certified gas plumber for all this work.
This ensures a safe application in your home and also keeps your gas system compliant with local laws. You’ll have peace of mind that your family are safe while using all your gas appliances!