Common misconceptions about the safety of natural gas

Natural gas sometimes gets a bad rap for being dangerous or unsafe – that’s simply not true!

If you’ve never lived in a house with natural pipelined gas, you may have some questions about how safe it is. Below, we’ve taken some common misconceptions about the safety aspects of natural gas and set the facts straight.

MYTH: Natural gas is unsafe

Natural gas is one of the safest fuels you can use and the natural gas industry is highly regulated to ensure your safety. Prior to making gas available, the distributor thoroughly tests all pipelines in your neighbourhood to ensure compliance and safe operation.

TRUE: Switching from a wood heater to a natural gas flame effect heater is safer

Yep, this one’s true. As well as reducing the risk of burns for young children, natural gas heating solutions are the best option for asthmatics and allergy sufferers. Without wood smoke from a fire or dust being blown about by air conditioning, you can breathe easy knowing your family are in safe hands.

MYTH: Natural gas will be toxic to my family

Natural gas is a colourless, naturally occurring gas, made up of methane and a small percentage of other gases. It is a very safe and clean-burning fuel source. Unlike LPG, natural gas is composed almost entirely of methane, which is lighter than air. If there is a gas leak, natural gas will disperse through natural ventilation. Natural gas is odourless however an odorant is added to assist in the identification of a gas leak.

Our gas safety tips

• Use a licensed gas fitter for all of your repairs, servicing and or the removal of appliances.
• Do not place clothing or other flammable items directly in front of heaters or other gas appliances.
• Do not remove safety devices or guards from appliances.
• Ensure your cooktops and ovens are cleaned regularly and remove waste to prevent fires.
• Do not use flueless gas appliances in confined areas, always ensure appliances are operated in a well-ventilated room.
• Never use appliances designed for the outdoors inside your home.

Tas Gas preferred gas fitters are fully trained, qualified professionals and must comply with workplace standards. We choose our preferred gas fitters carefully, and will only trust capable, reliable and hardworking gas fitters.

If you require any further gas safety information, please contact us.