Gasfitting
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Natural Gas
Consists mainly of methane. The large proportion of methane is one of the reasons natural gas has such a good safety record.
Methane is lighter than air and will disperse relatively easily if there is a gas leak.
Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG)
Is a hydrocarbon fuel comprised primarily of propane or butane, either separately or as a mixture.
LPG is non-toxic, and non-corrosive.
LPG is produced during the production of oil and gas, and is stored in tanks and transported by road tanker trucks or in cylinders.
LPG is mainly stored in tanks in liquid form and is heavier than air.
LPG tends to collect in low points and is more difficult to disperse than natural gas, so is therefore more prone to catch fire or explode if a leak occurs.Posted: Sunday 29 December 2024 -
Never use damaged or corroded cylinders, This can lead to leaks and fires. Check the date stamp, By law cylinders must be tested every 10 years.
Always store and use cylinders upright.
Cylinders should be housed in a suitable enclosure.
Check cylinders for dents and corrosion, especially around the base.
Never attempt to remove or repair cylinder valves.
Never expose cylinder to extreme heat.
Never incinerate an empty cylinder, It may explode.
Never try to fill your own cylinder, Only trained persons using special equipment can do so safely.Posted: Sunday 29 December 2024 -
LPG and natural gas heaters are used widely to warm New Zealand home and businesses. Used wisely, gas is instant, reliable, efficient and safe. However, like any other form of energy it must be treated with respect to prevent accidents.
In small rooms (eg bedrooms and bathrooms) a permanently installed gas heater may only be used in restricted circumstances. Ask a licensed gasfitter for advise.
Don't use unflued gas appliances, such as LPG cabinet heaters or instantaneous water heaters in small rooms or in bedrooms and bathrooms.Posted: Sunday 29 December 2024 -
Gas appliances need to be operated and maintained in accordance with their operating instructions (where applicable), to ensure they remain safe in normal use, and are only used for the purpose for which they were designed and tested.Posted: Sunday 29 December 2024