These days, every second person you meet is an avid DIY enthusiast. You know the type. It’s the guy who spends his off Saturdays at the hardware centre looking for new gadgets and tools to try out for his next major home improvement project.
While there’s nothing wrong with that, it’s important to point out that if you’re that guy, some jobs around the home should only ever be done by the plumber Tuggeranong locals call for all things plumbing-related. One of these is the repair or fitting of any new gas appliances or gadgets. You should also never attempt repairs on leaking gas lines in your home. Keep reading as we highlight why.
Leave it to The Professionals.
Opting to have natural as installed in your home is super convenient. It’s also more cost-effective than electricity and has a reduced carbon footprint. However, it’s essential to point out that convenience doesn’t equal ease of repair. Here’s a quick breakdown of why you should only let a gas plumber work on the gas-related issues in your home.
- Gas is Highly Volatile
As you may already know, gas is highly volatile. The speed at which it ignites when you take a match to your cooker should prove this point quite quickly. This means it should be the last thing you want to have to try to repair or replace on your own.
Any gas-related fittings, repairs, or upgrades should always be referred to your local gas plumber. Not only are they experts at repairing gas, but they also have the right tools to ensure that the job is done safely. A huge plus with calling a gas plumber for any gas issues is that they will, at the same time, assess all other gas appliances in your home to ensure that there are no additional issues.
If you’ve just recently converted your home to natural gas, it’s essential to be aware of the warning signs that could be an indication of an underlying issue. Here’s what you need to look out for:
- Rotten egg smell: The first sign is usually that of a rotten egg smell similar to sulphur. Gas suppliers incorporate mercaptan into the gas to help you identify a leak.
- Hissing sound: You should also listen for a strange hissing or whistling sound. This will happen when there’s a leak from the main line or from a pipe leading to an appliance.
- Unusually high gas bills: If your gas bill is higher for no apparent reason, it may be a clear indication that you’re dealing with a gas leak.
- Flu-like symptoms: Carbon monoxide poisoning can lead to anyone exposed to the gas feeling as though they have suddenly developed the flu. This can include feeling nauseous, tired, or drowsy.
- It’s a Legal Requirement
Other than the huge risk of tinkering around with your gas, the next most important reason o does not do it as a DIY job is the fact that Australian Law has regulated all gas repairs, fittings, and replacements. This means that even the smallest appliance that needs installation must be done by a professional gas fitter.
Since all fitters need to be certified and trained in Gas Supply Industry Operations, you’ll have peace of mind that an expert is handling the issue. Gas fitting plumbers are highly trained to do installations and repairs correctly to avoid creating or aggravating any dangerous leaks or fires. Keep in mind that they also have the necessary permits to work on the main gas line leading to your home. This keeps any other houses connected to the gas line safe as well.
- Eliminates those Pesky Switch-On Faults for Appliances
Nothing is more frustrating than buying a new appliance, such as a fridge or stove, and having it not switch on. This not only means that you can’t use your appliance immediately, but getting a replacement from your retailer can take time. Having gas appliances professionally installed means that you have an expert on hand who could potentially assist you with troubleshooting the issue.
It’s also essential to point out that some appliance warranties require professional installation as one of the conditions for the warranty to be honoured. Your plumber will give you the necessary reports to confirm installation. They will also assist with any additional information required if the appliance does, in fact, have a confirmed switch-on fault.
Final Thoughts
No matter how much of a DIY enthusiast you are, all things related to the gas in your home should only ever be worked on or fitted by a professional. Not only is this regulated by law, but it is also safer for your household and everyone in the surrounding area.
Whether you want to install a shiny new gas BBQ or you want to repair a faulty connection to your appliance, your first call should always be to a certified gas plumber. This will assure you that all your gas connections and appliances are working as they should!
Lynn Martelli is an editor at Readability. She received her MFA in Creative Writing from Antioch University and has worked as an editor for over 10 years. Lynn has edited a wide variety of books, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and more. In her free time, Lynn enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her family and friends.
