Gas appliances are common in Gold Coast homes, from cooktops and hot water systems to heaters and outdoor barbecues connected to the mains or a cylinder. When they work well, they are easy to forget about. When something is not right, it is important to know when to stop and call a licensed gas fitter. In Queensland, gas work must be carried out by an appropriately licensed person. Homeowners should not attempt to repair, modify or disconnect gas appliances or pipework themselves.
In Queensland, gas work must be done by a licensed gas fitter, and that applies to every Gold Coast home on natural gas or LPG.
If you suspect a gas leak
If you can smell gas or suspect a leak, keep your response simple and focus on safety. General guidance is:
- Do not use anything that could create a spark or flame. Avoid lighters, matches and naked flames, and do not operate electrical switches or appliances.
- If it is safe to do so, open doors and windows to ventilate the area.
- Leave the area and keep others away.
- Once you are in a safe place, contact your gas distributor's emergency line, or your gas supplier if you use cylinders.
- If there is immediate danger to life or property, call 000.
Check current official guidance
Emergency procedures and contact numbers can change. Check current guidance from your gas distributor, gas supplier and the relevant Queensland authorities, and keep the correct emergency number somewhere easy to find. Do not attempt to locate or repair a gas leak yourself.
Signs it is time to call a licensed gas fitter
Not every gas issue is an emergency, but many still need a licensed gas fitter rather than a general handyman. Signs that may warrant an inspection include:
- A faint or intermittent gas smell near an appliance, meter or cylinder.
- Burner flames that are mostly yellow or orange, lifting off the burner or flickering unusually, where they would normally be steady and blue.
- Soot or dark staining around an appliance or flue.
- A pilot light that will not stay lit, or an appliance that repeatedly shuts down.
- Unusual noises, such as hissing near gas pipework or fittings.
- Feeling unwell, light-headed or nauseous when a gas appliance is running, particularly in an enclosed space. Turn the appliance off if it is safe to do so, get fresh air and seek medical advice.
- Damage to visible gas pipework, flexible hoses or cylinder connections.
Planned gas work that needs a licensed fitter
Beyond faults, there are many planned jobs where a licensed gas fitter is required. These include installing, relocating or replacing gas appliances, extending gas pipework for a new cooktop or outdoor kitchen, converting appliances between gas types, and connecting or relocating gas cylinders. A gas fitter can also check that ventilation and flueing are appropriate for the appliance and the space it is in.
Periodic servicing of gas appliances, as recommended by the manufacturer, may also help identify wear or faults early. Your appliance manual is a good starting point for recommended service intervals.
Why DIY gas work is not appropriate
Gas leaks can lead to fire or explosion, and incomplete combustion can produce carbon monoxide, which has no colour or smell. Licensed gas fitters are trained to install and test gas systems, and their work is subject to compliance requirements. Unlicensed work may put people at risk and may create problems with compliance, warranties or insurance.
When buying, selling or renting out a property with gas appliances, it may also be sensible to have the installation checked by a licensed gas fitter. They can look at the condition of visible pipework and fittings, test appliances where appropriate, and advise on anything that needs attention. What can be checked depends on access and the type of installation.
If you are unsure whether something needs a gas fitter, it is reasonable to ask. A licensed professional can tell you whether an inspection is needed and what it would involve.
Need help on the Gold Coast?
Tensor Plumbing is a licensed plumber and gas fitter based in Parkwood, servicing Gold Coast suburbs within about 30 minutes. See licensed gas fitter on the Gold Coast and gas hot water, or find your suburb. When you're ready, request a quote online and attach a photo or two.
Related reading: Replacing a Hot Water System in Queensland: Rules & Options.
General information only
This article is general information about gas safety and when to contact a licensed gas fitter. It is not a substitute for a site-specific inspection by a licensed plumber, and what can be found or confirmed on any property depends on site conditions and accessible evidence.