Jet's Guide to Gas
Fixing gas problems around the home
Gas is a safe, efficient and simple way to meet your energy needs but can be potentially dangerous if it is not used carefully, a leak occurs or an appliance is faulty.
All appliances should be safety checked and properly maintained. Do not try to investigate the problem or fix a leak/faulty appliance yourself.
Carbon monoxide can be generated when gas appliances are not installed correctly, badly maintained or poorly ventilated. It is especially dangerous as you cannot see, smell it or taste it. Although carbon monoxide is invisible and difficult to detect, there are ways that you can see whether an appliance (fires, heaters, central heating boilers, water heaters or cookers) may be dangerous. These include:
- A black, brown or scorched area on an appliance
- A musty smell or signs of soot
- More condensation than normal on windows
To keep your house safe and check for the presence of carbon monoxide, you can use a carbon monoxide detector. These sense carbon monoxide in the air, and change colour or set off an alarm to warn you.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can include headaches, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, diarrhoea, stomach and chest pains. A faulty gas appliance can cause these symptoms.
To find an appliance repairer, look in the Yellow Pages or refer to the links below:
www.pgdb.co.nz