The domestic sector is the largest user of natural gas in the UK, with a share of 34% of the total gas consumption. However, the overall demand for gas across all sectors has consistently fallen over the recent years. Natural gas alternatives, especially those derived from renewable resources, are becoming more popular. There has been a major shift in the way people think about energy nowadays.
Individuals are becoming increasingly conscious of their consumption decisions. This is because sustainable energy sources are seen as more viable for long-term growth and development. Natural gas consumption also faces another major problem. While it is convenient and has been in use for hundreds of years, the risks it poses can never be eliminated. Natural gas or carbon monoxide poisoning results in nearly 40 deaths per year in the UK and Wales.
Natural gas is hard to detect, and a leak can prove lethal if it goes unnoticed for too long. This is not to say that the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning cannot be minimized. Appropriate safety measures have reduced cases of gas leakage, and carbon monoxide poisoning has declined significantly over the years. While it is important to remain vigilant and wary of the fact that gas consumption can be risky, what is even more important is to implement gas safety measures. This is the best way to prevent gas-related incidents and keep your home safe.
Gas Safety for your Home
Gas safety measures are preventative as they protect against potential gas-related incidents. The idea is to minimize the probability of such events from occurring altogether. Some gas safety measures include:
- Getting a gas safety check conducted annually
- Ensuring timely repairs and regular maintenance of gas mains and appliances
- Installing carbon monoxide detectors
- Being vigilant about gas leaks
- Keeping your home well-ventilated
Among the gas safety measures mentioned, getting an annual gas safety check is the one that is usually overlooked by many people. Landlords are required by law to acquire the gas safety certificate, which is issued after a gas safety check. However, the overall number could be higher.
Many homeowners have misconceptions surrounding gas safety checks. While getting an inspection can be an inconvenience, it is necessary for optimal gas safety. Additionally, gas safety checks need to be done once every 12 months.
The gas safety certificate cost usually ranges between £60 and £100, depending on your location and the number of gas appliances in your home. Investing in this certificate ensures both legal compliance and long-term safety.
How to Prepare for a Gas Safety Check?
Here are some tips for making gas safety checks more convenient and reducing the apprehension related to getting an inspection on your property:
- Book an Appointment with a Registered Gas Safety Engineer
To prepare for a gas safety check, you will first have to get an appointment with a registered gas safety engineer. Gas safety engineers are experts in inspecting gas mains, appliances, and connections. Only a registered gas safety engineer can issue a gas safety certificate, the CP12, so you must make sure that the gas safety engineer is registered.
- Schedule the Appointment so it is Convenient for All
Advancing the booking of the appointment is very helpful in avoiding scheduling issues. Unless there is an emergency, scheduling an appointment is the most convenient way to get an inspection done. Just be aware that the appointment is scheduled so you or someone in your household is available and can guide the gas safety engineer around the house.
- Prepared to Show Gas Mains and Appliances
Be aware of all the gas infrastructure in your home. Gas mains, connections, appliances, and ventilation outlets, among other things, need to be well-known before the gas safety engineer arrives. You are responsible for showing them around and guiding them, so being educated on these aspects is very important.
This information is also vital in terms of overall gas safety because knowledge about the gas connections, the HVAC systems, and the gas mains can be helpful in case you suspect a gas leak. You can instantly shut the gas mains if you believe there is a gas leak and prevent a horrible accident from occurring.
- Make Sure to Not Use Any of the Gas Appliances During the Inspection
Since a gas safety check involves checking all the appliances that utilize gas, it is best to remain prepared. Turn off all gas appliances during the inspection. Naturally, the gas safety engineer will themselves turn each appliance on to check for the gas pressure.
It is advisable that any gas-related work you need to do, like cooking a meal, should be done in advance. This way, there will be no interruptions during the inspection, and the gas safety check can be conducted smoothly.
- Keep a Record of Past Inspections Nearby
Landlords are already legally required to keep a record of the two latest gas safety certificates issued for their property. This is a good rule of thumb for all homeowners. A record for the past two years is enough to provide valuable information regarding a property’s gas safety condition.
It is better to keep these records nearby when an inspection is being conducted. The gas safety engineer might need these as a reference if an issue is detected or simply to gain additional insight into your home’s gas safety in the past.
- Be Prepared to Take Any Notes When Needed
Generally, a gas safety check is a straightforward process that is completed within 20 to 30 minutes. Still, you need to be prepared to take down notes in case the gas safety engineer has important advice or observations to share with you.
You don’t need much, a small notebook and a pen will do. You can always take down notes on your phone as well. It is critical to listen to what the gas safety engineer has to say and note it down for future reference.
Checking for Gas Safety
Property owners who are getting their homes inspected for the first time may feel apprehensive. However, it is much better to feel apprehensive about gas safety rather than the inspection process. Gas safety checks are a crucial aspect of your home’s overall gas safety. But it is a very critical piece of the puzzle. Safety is integral to keeping your home and loved ones safe. If you have to hire an expert once a year to get some peace of mind. It is a small price to pay for feeling safe and protected in your own home.
