Gas leaks, fires and explosions, and carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning may all result from hazardous gas appliances, but these are all problems that can be prevented by following some easy gas safety recommendations.

Because most households in the UK contain a gas appliance, such as a gas boiler, our heating engineers in Telford, Shrewsbury and Newport have put up a quick guide to help you remain safe in your home.

Know Your Gas Appliances

Familiarise yourself with the gas appliances in your home, such as your boiler, cooker, and hob. Understanding their basic operation allows you to identify potential problems early on. Keep user manuals readily available for future reference, and ensure an annual gas safety check by a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer.

Signs of Gas Issues

• A strong gas odour (similar to rotten eggs or sulphur)
• Whistling or hissing sounds near gas appliances
• Visible, concealed fires
• Blue pilot lights turning yellow or orange
• Soot build-up around appliances
• Water stains near flues
• Increased condensation on windows

Safety Precautions During a Gas Leak

During a gas leak, certain actions can create dangerous situations. Never light cigarettes or use naked flames in the affected area. Avoid turning electrical switches on or off, and refrain from using any electrical appliances, as these could create sparks. It's also important to never use gas appliances for unintended purposes, such as using a cooker for heating, as this can lead to dangerous situations.

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Our Top Gas Safety Tips

Invest in a CO alarm

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a deadly gas that is created when carbon-based fuels, such as gas, oil, wood, and coal, are burned incompletely. These fuels are safe to use and only pose a threat when excess CO is created when the fuel does not burn correctly.

CO stops the blood from carrying oxygen to cells, tissues, and organs when it enters the body. It is important to recognise the signs and symptoms of CO poisoning. Headaches, dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath, and, in the worst-case scenario, collapse, and loss of concision are some of the signs you can look out for.

Install an audible carbon monoxide alarm in your house, and make sure it's set up according to the manufacturer's recommendations. They're inexpensive, but they will save your life.

Documentation and Records

Maintain a detailed record of all gas safety checks, servicing and repairs. Keep certificates and documentation in a safe place, and set reminders for when the next service is due. This documentation is particularly important if you're a landlord or plan to sell your property.

Use a qualified installer

When you hire a heating engineer to carry out a gas service on your property, always make sure you request to see their Gas Safe ID. Gas Safe registered engineers are highly trained to ensure all work is completed safely, giving you peace of mind. When viewing the Gas Safe ID, make sure to look at the back of the card because it lists the appliances they are certified to work on.  

Unregistered gas engineers should not be hired to work in your home since they are not qualified to provide gas services. You will be glad to know that our engineers throughout Telford, Atterley, Shifnal and Shrewsbury are Gas Safe registered, so make sure to get in touch with us for any boiler installations, boiler repairs and boiler service checks that you may require.

Proper Use of Gas Appliances

Every gas appliance is designed and tested for specific purposes. Using appliances incorrectly can create serious safety risks. Never use your gas cooker or hob to heat a room, as this can lead to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide and creates a serious fire risk. Gas fires should only be used in properly ventilated rooms with appropriate clearance from furniture and furnishings. If your heating system isn't working properly, contact a qualified engineer rather than trying to find alternative heating methods using other gas appliances.

Know Your Emergency Controls

Familiarise yourself with your gas Emergency Control Valve (ECV), often called the gas shut-off valve. It's typically located near your gas meter, though locations can vary depending on your property type. The valve usually has a distinctive quarter-turn lever handle. To locate yours:

• Check near your gas meter
• Look for a lever handle that turns 90 degrees
• Ensure the area around it remains easily accessible
• Mark its location on your home emergency plan

In an emergency, turn the lever handle so it's at 90 degrees to the gas pipe (usually horizontal) to stop the gas flow. Practice locating and reaching your ECV without using a light or torch, as you may need to find it in the dark during an emergency.

Ventilation

Ensuring that your gas appliances have enough ventilation to function properly is very important. Make sure the air vents or chimneys within your home are not blocked which can prevent a fresh supply of air from circulating throughout your home. Not only this but it also creates a healthier living environment by reducing the amount of dust collected.

Get your boiler serviced

We cannot recommend this enough! Getting your gas appliances serviced annually is a great way to ensure all your appliances are running safely and effectively. It also helps fix any issues detected to prevent chances of it breaking down on you.  If you would like to know more, get in touch with our gas engineers Newport, Telford and Shrewsbury by calling us on 01952300008.