5 Tips for Installing Gas in Your Home
Amid the electricity crisis the country finds itself in, having gas in your home is now not only a lifesaver.
06/09/2023
Installing a gas stove in
your home used to be a decision that rested on
your preference for temperature controls in
cooking. Similarly, getting a gas geyser was a
sensible option for those wanting lower water
heating costs. However, amid the electricity
crisis the country finds itself in, having gas
in your home is now not only a lifesaver, but
also increases the appeal of your home, for
buyers and tenants.
Cost-effective and
environmentally-friendly, gas has many benefits
for homeowners seeking a reliable and flexible
energy option, says Carl Coetzee, CEO of
BetterBond. “While it can be a convenient energy
source, it requires careful consideration and
installation to ensure that it is safe and
compliant.” Before choosing a gas installation
kit, determine the type of gas that will be used
in your home, as components and fittings may
differ. Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is the
most frequently used gas in South African
households.
Coetzee shares five things
homeowners should know before switching to gas:
Size matters
The size of your installation will be determined by the volume of gas needed and the distance between the gas source and the appliance. “For instance, if you're planning to install a gas stove, you'll need a larger kit than if you're installing a gas water heater,” Coetzee notes. Select a gas installation kit that is appropriately sized to meet your requirements and ensure that your appliance receives sufficient gas flow for operation.
Safety first
All
appliances must be compliant with the South
African National Standards (SANS) safety
standards. This includes appliances such as gas
stoves, heaters, and geysers. The SANS standards
ensure that gas appliances are safe to use and
operate, and that they meet certain performance
and efficiency requirements.
When buying
gas appliances, look for the SANS mark, such as
SANS 10087-1 and SANS 827, on the product or
packaging. “A gas installation kit that has been
approved by either the Liquefied Petroleum Gas
Safety Association of Southern Africa (LPGSASA)
or the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS),
will meet the necessary safety and compliance
requirements,” notes Coetzee.
Gas installations must be done by a qualified installer registered with the South African Qualification and Certification Committee for Gas (SAQCC Gas).
Compliance
A compliance certificate is required for all gas installations, including new installations, modifications, and repairs. It is issued by the installer upon completion of the work and confirms that the installation has been done in compliance with all relevant regulations and standards. It should include details such as the type of gas installation, the date and the name and registration number of the installer. “Once you receive your compliance certificate, keep it in a safe place as it may be required for insurance or resale purposes,” says Coetzee.
Regular inspections
Gas installations must be inspected regularly to ensure that they remain safe and compliant. The frequency depends on the type of installation and the usage patterns. A general rule of thumb is that domestic gas installations should be inspected by a qualified gas practitioner, who is registered with SAQCC, every two years. The inspector will check that the installation is still safe and compliant and will issue a new compliance certificate if everything is in order. Regular inspections are important to detect and address any potential safety issues before they become a risk.
No leaks
Natural gas and LPG are both highly
flammable and can ignite if they come into
contact with a spark or flame. Gas leaks can
also cause asphyxiation if the gas displaces
oxygen in a confined space. If you smell gas in
your home, take immediate action, urges Coetzee.
Turn off all gas appliances, open windows and
doors to ventilate the area, and evacuate the
building. Do not use any electrical switches or
devices, as these can cause sparks that could
ignite the gas. Call a qualified gas
practitioner to inspect the installation and fix
any leaks as soon as possible.