There are only a handful of homes in Australia without access to gas appliances. As gas installations have gained popularity in different parts of the world, the need for professionals who can install and manage gas fixtures in the house is also bound to increase. If you are a homeowner in need of a gas fitter or happen to be considering a career in gas fitting, this article will explain to you the responsibilities of a gas fitter in maintaining a property.
Who is a Gas Fitter?
Gas fitters are professionals responsible for any and every gas installation in a house. These installations could be heating, refrigeration, cooking, lighting, or gas-powered appliances. They design gas systems for homes, can read and interpret available blueprints provided by contractors and use the information to install gas appliances. They also renovate, remove, repair and manage gas appliances already installed on client property. Their work involves the safety of people living inside the home, so gas fitters must be trained by certified individuals. Typically, gas fitters need to complete a three-year apprenticeship program before they can contract jobs. During this time, they need to pass numerous training courses and exams before being awarded a journeyman certificate.
Gas fitters often work overtime when emergencies arise because gas issues always require immediate attention. They are also well-trained in managing situations to control chaos and minimise damage while simultaneously protecting themselves. Some regulations require that gas fitters be licensed before they practice gas fitting to prevent unqualified people from putting the lives of many at risk.
Gas Fitter vs Plumber
Gas fitters are sometimes called gas plumbers, which can make people think they fulfil the same duties; however, they do not. While gas fitters work on gas-related pipe systems, plumbers work on water-related ones. They also undergo different types of training from each other. However, either of them can decide to double up as the other, but to do so, they must undergo training and get licensing to work as their counterpart. Many plumbers choose to do so and either go ahead to receive training on gas fitting or register to learn gas fitting and plumbing during training.
Responsibilities of a Gas Fitter
As gas fitters manage every gas-related appliance in commercial and residential properties, the duties they cover are vast. Yet if you need any gas appliance installation, always reach out to licensed individuals, so you’re assured of a high-quality job with a warranty inclusion.
- Read and interpret gas installation blueprints and designs
- Mark and measure gas installation points
- Repair gas fixtures like gas metres, burners and valves
- Install gas hot water system
- Carry out gas compliance certification for clients
- Install gas detection systems
- Connect and convert gas
- Servicing gas-fuelled appliances
- Install gas fittings like gas metres, pipes, bayonets and ovens
- Gas lean repair and testing
Final Thoughts
It is unsafe to allow untrained individuals to install or repair gas fixtures. This is because their most minor mistake could cost your health or life. To ensure your safety and the well-being of your pets and the environment, you’ll need a licensed gas fitter to help diagnose and repair your gas appliances. While we could not list all the possible responsibilities a gas fitter can undertake, remember that a gas fitter is whom you call for every gas-related need in your house.
If you have issues with your gas appliances at home, contacting the help of licensed gas fitters is a must. This problem is not something you can DIY, and if anything unfortunate happens, it might also void your home insurance, which could be detrimental to your home expenses.
Besides, seeking the help of licensed gas fitters will not only fix your problem most efficiently but will also protect and keep your family safe. Lastly, it would give you the peace of mind you need so you can sleep better at night. You might be spending a little more on fees, but it’s something worth every penny you pay. So, don’t hesitate to contact a gas fitter, and better yet, keep their contact number as you’ll never know when you’ll need their help.
