Gas Cookers, Hobs & Fires

Whether your home already uses natural gas or LPG as a fuel, or you are converting to using natural gas or LPG in your home, there are a couple of things to bear in mind when it comes to having a gas cooker, hob or fire installed.

​

We will ensure that your new gas cooking appliance is correctly installed and safe to use. Equally if your old gas cooker or hob needs to be removed or disconnected we have the skills to do this safely.

​

If you are having a new gas fire installed, we will advise you on which is the most suitable type of gas fire for your home, make sure your new appliance is correctly installed and safe to use, and inform the relevant Local Authority of the installation under the Building Regulations.

​

As is the case with any gas appliance in your home, making sure your gas cooker or hob is checked is essential to keeping it in good working order, not only for the sake of efficiency, but most importantly, to ensure your family or tenants stay safe.

​

What are the benefits of installing a gas cooker, hob or fire?

One of the main benefits of using gas cookers and hobs is that they are often cheaper to run than electric cookers and hobs, and they are also very popular because they provide easily manageable adjustable heat.

​

Aside from cleaning, gas cookers and hobs don’t usually require much more by way of routine service, but it is important to check the manufacturers instructions to find out how often a service is recommended.

​

Gas fires are a great way to provide additional heat in your home, especially during the colder months. However, as with any type of gas appliance, your gas fire needs to be correctly installed, serviced or repaired to make sure it continues to be safe to use in your home.

​

How to stay safe when using a gas cooker or hob?

Gas cookers and hobs should not be used for heating and require adequate ventilation when in use. Do not block any purpose provided ventilation that is installed for safety of appliances and the occupants.

​

There are signs which could indicate that your gas cooker or hob is unsafe. These include black marks around the appliance, yellow or orange flames instead of crisp blue ones and the smell of gas. If you notice any of these signs, do not use the appliance. You will need to get your gas cooking appliance checked.

​

During a gas safety check, we check your gas cooker or hob to ensure it is safe to continue using in your home. We make sure that the gas is burning correctly, that the appliance is secure, pipework is securely connected, not worn or damaged and that it is suitably located. We also check the ventilation requirements for safety and comfort of use.

​

What does a gas fire service involve?

Getting your gas fire serviced is important to ensure it remains safe and in good condition. Most manufacturers recommend an annual service. If your gas fire is under guarantee and you fail to have it serviced annually, it may invalidate its warranty.

​

During the service we will identify any defects or issues with your gas fire and any necessary repairs to ensure its operating safely. We will carry out numerous checks according to the manufacturer instructions. These checks will include:

​

• Checking it is suitable for the room it has been installed in

• Making sure your gas fire has been installed correctly

• Checking the flue or chimney to make sure it is free from debris and blockages

• Ensuring harmful gases are being safely removed and there is sufficient ventilation, e.g. air vents

• Checking and cleaning various components of your gas fire

• Checking it is burning correctly at the right pressure

• Testing all safety devices to ensure they are operating correctly

• Testing the gas pipework to make sure there are no leaks

 

Getting your gas fire regularly serviced will ensure your appliance continues to be safe to use. However, it is still useful to know the warning signs of an unsafe gas fire. These include:

​

• Black marks around the appliance

• Yellow or orange flames

• The smell of gas

• Physical symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, nausea, breathlessness, collapse, and loss of consciousness which could indicate carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning