How Often Should You Get a Gas Safety Check?

Gas appliances are a convenient and efficient way to power your home, but they also require regular maintenance to ensure safety. If you’re a homeowner in Brisbane, you may be wondering how often you should schedule a gas safety check. The general recommendation is every two years, but let’s explore why regular checks are crucial and what they involve.

Why Regular Gas Safety Checks Matter

Gas safety checks aren’t just a precaution—they’re essential for protecting your home and family. Gas leaks, carbon monoxide exposure, and appliance malfunctions can pose serious health and safety risks if left unchecked. Brisbane homeowners should prioritise regular inspections to prevent potential hazards before they become emergencies.

Over time, gas connections can loosen, burners may become blocked, and appliances can develop faults that reduce efficiency or, worse, create safety risks. Without routine maintenance, small issues can escalate into costly repairs or dangerous situations, such as gas leaks or fires.

Recommended Gas Safety Check Frequency

In Brisbane, it’s advisable to have your gas system checked by a licensed plumber or gas fitter at least every two years. However, there are situations where more frequent checks may be needed:

• If you notice a gas smell or suspect a leak.
• If your gas appliances are older or haven’t been serviced in a long time.
• If you’ve recently purchased a home and aren’t sure of the last inspection date.
• If you experience issues such as weak flames, yellow flames, or difficulty igniting your appliances.

In rental properties, landlords have a legal responsibility to ensure gas appliances are safe, with many opting for annual checks. If you’re a tenant and concerned about gas safety, it’s worth asking when the last inspection was done.

What Happens During a Gas Safety Check?

A professional gas safety check involves inspecting and testing your home’s gas system to ensure everything is functioning correctly and safely. This includes:

• Checking gas appliances for leaks or faulty connections.
• Inspecting gas pressure and burner efficiency.
• Testing for carbon monoxide leaks.
• Ensuring proper ventilation around gas appliances.
• Checking the condition of gas pipes, regulators, and valves.

If any issues are found, your plumber will recommend repairs or replacements to keep your home safe.

The Risks of Skipping Gas Safety Checks

Many homeowners don’t think about gas safety until something goes wrong. Unfortunately, by the time a leak or malfunction becomes noticeable, it could already be a serious problem. Some of the dangers of neglecting gas safety checks include:

• Gas leaks: Even small leaks can be hazardous, leading to fire risks and potential health effects like headaches, nausea, or dizziness.
• Carbon monoxide poisoning: Faulty appliances can release dangerous levels of carbon monoxide, which is odourless and can cause serious illness or even be fatal.
• Inefficiency and higher energy bills: Poorly maintained appliances don’t burn gas efficiently, leading to wasted energy and increased costs.
• Costly repairs or replacements: Addressing small issues early can prevent expensive emergency repairs later.

Book Your Gas Safety Check Today

Keeping up with regular gas safety checks is a simple but crucial way to protect your home and family. Brisbane’s warm climate doesn’t pose issues like frozen pipes, but gas safety remains a year-round priority. Whether it’s been a while since your last inspection or you’ve noticed signs of trouble, now is the perfect time to schedule a professional check.

By ensuring your gas appliances are properly maintained, you’ll enjoy greater peace of mind, improved efficiency, and a safer home environment.