Most of the time, it is natural for a homeowner to call a plumber whenever there is a plumbing issue at home. But, in the case of gas, e.g., when you can smell something suspicious, when you have purchased a new gas-powered device, or even when there is a leakage, it is not always obvious which professional should be called.
In Australia, both plumbers and gas fitters near me may work with gas systems, but their training and licensing differ. Some of the jobs can only be done legally by a licensed gas fitter. It is crucial to know when you will require a gas fitter (not a plumber) to make sure that you protect your family. This also ensures adherence to Australian Safety Standards. So, read on!
What Is the Difference Between Gas Fitters and Plumbers?
Plumbers are licensed to deal with water supply systems, drainage, hot water systems, toilets, and more. Some plumbers have additional training to conduct licensed gas fitting, which complies with safety and legal requirements.
Gas fitters, on the other hand, are specialists. Their business is only to deal with gas lines, appliances, and safety systems. They are highly qualified individuals who have undergone intensive training in the use of natural gas, LPG, leak testing, pressure systems, and expert installation, which adhere to Australian Safety Standards.
Not all plumbers are licensed gas fitters, although some are. Hence, before you hire a professional to carry out the gas work, make sure to see their gas fitting licence.
When You Need to Call a Licensed Gas Fitter
The following are the most important cases in which you can prioritise the services of a licensed gas fitter:
Gas Smells or Suspected Leakages
Is there a smell of a rotten egg? Are you hearing a hissing noise in the vicinity of gas pipes, or noticing bubbles in soapy water at a gas connection? It is most likely that there is a leakage. Unattended gas leaks are dangerous and greatly increase the risk of explosion, fire or carbon-monoxide poisoning.
What to Do:
- Leave the area
- Do not turn on electrical switches
- Avoid using open flames
- Call a licensed gas fitter immediately to check and fix the system.
Gas Appliance Installation
The installation of a gas appliance shall be done by a licensed gas fitter in compliance with AS/NZS 5601. Poor installation of appliances may cause gas leakages, inefficient functioning and a high chance of fire or carbon-monoxide poisoning.
A licensed gas fitter will:
- Adhere to the Australian Standards
- Ensure the proper connection of the appliance to your gas line
- Gas leak and safety test
- Get a compliance certificate
Installation or Upgradation of Gas Lines
Connecting a new appliance or upgrading your existing system to a gas system for outdoor BBQs or heating requires skills. Gas fitters are highly trained to design and install gas piping systems that are legal and safe. In Australia, it is illegal to try a DIY job, hire someone unqualified to do gas work. It can also void the coverage benefits of your purchased insurance policy. For example, in Victoria, the Gas Safety Act 1997 prohibits unlicensed gasfitting work and can incur heavy penalties.
Gas Leak Detection and Repairs
Not all leaks are obvious. Even minor indicators like a gas bill that is unusually high, plants dying unexpectedly near underground gas lines or appliances that take longer than usual to heat can be indicators of an underlying issue. Gas fitters have specialised gas detectors, pressure testers, and other equipment to detect leaks and perform safe repairs with precision.
Annual Safety Inspections
The best defence against the presence of hidden gas is regular inspections. Gas fitters can inspect appliances, meters, regulators, and connections, ensuring that they are running efficiently and safely. For the Australian rental properties, it is a law that the landlords should frequently organise gas safety inspections conducted by a certified gas fitter. Check your state or territory’s specific requirements, such as Victoria’s two-yearly gas safety check for rental properties.
Unusual Appliance Behaviour
The gas appliances are supposed to have a constant blue flame. When you notice yellow or flickering fires, unusual sounds, or irregular heating, this indicates that there is incomplete combustion, as well as ventilation problems. A gas fitter can maintain the gas appliance and restore safe performance.
Why You Should Not Call Just a Plumber
Although some plumbers are licensed gas fitters, many are not. Hiring an ordinary plumber can increase the risk of:
- Safety Hazards: Poorly fitted gas appliances may leak, ignite fires, or emit carbon monoxide.
- Insurance Voids: Home insurance policies do not cover the damage caused by an unlicensed gas work.
- Expensive Repairs: The poor workmanship often escalates the risk of the problems’ recurrence and costly repairs.
- Legal Concerns: Unlicensed persons should not carry out gas fitting work in Australia.
Hiring a licensed gas fitter who possesses the right credentials is the best course of action.
How to Verify a Gas Fitter’s Credentials
To ensure that you are recruiting the right individual:
- Ask for their licence number: Make sure the professional you are going to hire has their licence number.
- Verify their licence online: Most states and territories in Australia have public registers. You can verify a licence through state regulators such as Energy Safe Victoria, Building and Plumbing Commission.
- Request a compliance certificate: Following the completion of the work, a gas fitter should issue a compliance certificate to validate that the job is done to Australian Safety Standards.
- Check safety insurance cover: Securing your interest if there is a certain accident or damage.
Plumbers can undertake a wide scope of water-related issues. Only licensed gas fitters have specialised knowledge in doing gas-related installations, repairs and maintenance safely and legally in Australia.
In case you feel that there is an issue with the gas, you need an extra appliance, or you need a detailed gas check, then employ a certified person. In such a manner, you will protect your house, family, and your future. For an emergency gas repair, contact Murphy Plumbing at 0498 681 470 to get a FREE, no-obligation quote.
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