There’s nothing quite like the convenience of using gas in your home. Whether it’s for a family braai on a sunny Saturday, a warm indoor heater on a chilly winter evening, or a reliable stove that keeps your dinner plans on track during load-shedding, gas has become an essential part of life for many of us in Pretoria. It’s an efficient, clean, and flexible energy source that offers comfort and peace of mind.
But with this convenience comes a shared responsibility. We all need to be mindful of safety, from the moment a new cylinder arrives at your doorstep to the proper use of your appliances. At Shevic Energy, we’re not just your LP gas supplier; we’re your neighbours and partners in keeping our community safe. This guide is designed to empower you with the knowledge you need to handle, use, and store your gas cylinders and appliances with confidence. It’s a simple, straightforward guide to ensuring your home remains a safe and comfortable space for your family. By understanding and practicing these few simple steps, you can prevent potential issues before they even arise. So, let’s dive into some essential gas safety tips Pretoria residents can use every day.
Your Gas Cylinder: The First Step to a Safe Home
Your LP gas cylinder is the heart of your gas system, and treating it with care is the first and most important step in maintaining a safe environment. Proper handling and storage are non-negotiable for your security.
Where to Store Your Cylinders The ideal location for any gas cylinder, regardless of size, is outdoors in a well-ventilated area. This is because LP gas is heavier than air. In the unlikely event of a leak, the gas can disperse harmlessly into the atmosphere. Never store a gas cylinder in a closed space like a garage, basement, or a poorly ventilated cupboard. If gas were to leak in an enclosed area, it could accumulate and create a dangerous situation. It’s also crucial to store cylinders upright and on a level, solid surface. This ensures the pressure and safety valves are working correctly and that the cylinder is stable, preventing it from being accidentally knocked over.
Handling and Transport When you receive your LP gas delivery Pretoria, take a moment to ensure it’s in good condition. Check for any visible damage like dents or rust. When transporting a gas cylinder yourself, always keep it upright and secure it firmly in your vehicle to prevent it from rolling or falling. Never transport a cylinder inside the cabin of a car. Place it in the back of a bakkie or in a well-ventilated boot. Avoid leaving a cylinder in a hot car for prolonged periods, as heat can increase the pressure inside and pose a risk.
Inspecting Your Cylinder and Connections Before you connect a new cylinder, perform a quick check. The plastic seal on the valve should be intact. A crucial part of your gas cylinder safety Pretoria routine is checking your regulator and hose. They should be SABS-approved, and you should inspect them regularly for any signs of wear, cracks, or damage. Hoses have an expiry date stamped on them—usually about five years from the date of manufacture—and must be replaced before this date. This is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent leaks.
Simple Checks to Keep Your Appliances Safe
Beyond the cylinder itself, the appliances you use every day—from your stove to your heater—also require attention. Regular checks can provide an early warning sign of a potential issue.
The Importance of Professional Installation While it may be tempting to save money with a DIY installation, it’s not a risk worth taking. According to South African safety regulations, all new gas installations must be performed by a registered and certified gas installer. After installation, they will issue you with a Certificate of Conformity (COC), which confirms that the installation meets the required safety standards. Having a valid COC is not just a legal requirement; it’s a critical part of your home insurance policy. Without it, an insurance claim related to a gas incident may be rejected.
The “Soapy Water Test” for Connections This simple, yet effective, test can help you identify a small leak at the connection point between your cylinder, regulator, and appliance. Mix a small amount of dish soap with water to create a soapy solution. Using a spray bottle or a brush, apply the solution to the gas hose and connections. If you see bubbles forming, it indicates a leak. You must immediately tighten the connection or replace the faulty part.
A Healthy Flame is a Blue Flame The colour of the flame on your gas appliance is a good indicator of whether it’s working correctly. A healthy flame should be a strong, steady blue. A yellow or orange flame, especially with black soot forming on your pots, suggests incomplete combustion. This can lead to the production of carbon monoxide, a highly toxic, odourless, and colourless gas. If you notice a yellow or orange flame, switch off the appliance and have it serviced by a qualified professional.
Ensure Proper Ventilation All gas appliances require a consistent supply of oxygen to burn cleanly and safely. Always ensure the room is well-ventilated when using a gas stove, heater, or fireplace. This is especially important for indoor heaters. Leaving a window slightly ajar allows for fresh air to circulate and prevents the build-up of harmful gases.
My House Smells of Gas: What to Do in a Gas Emergency
This is the most critical section of our guide. A strong, distinctive smell of gas is a clear warning sign. It’s important to stay calm and act quickly. Knowing the correct steps can prevent a dangerous situation from escalating. If you find yourself thinking, “My house smells of gas, what to do in a gas leak?”—follow these four crucial steps immediately.
Step 1: Turn Off the Gas Supply This is your first and most important action. Go to the gas cylinder and turn the main valve clockwise to shut off the gas supply. If you have an in-line gas supply, locate the main shut-off valve, which is usually found near the meter or at the point where the gas enters your property.
Step 2: Ventilate the Area Once the gas supply is off, open all doors and windows to create a cross-draft. This will help to disperse any gas that may have accumulated inside the building. Do not use an electric fan to try and blow the gas away, as it could create a spark.
Step 3: Evacuate the Building Gather everyone in the home, including your pets, and evacuate immediately. Move to a safe distance, at least 100 metres away from the building. Do not re-enter the building until the situation has been professionally assessed and declared safe.
Step 4: Call for Help Once you are in a safe location, call for professional help. For a gas emergency Pretoria residents can reach out to their local emergency services. You should also contact a qualified gas technician or your gas supplier. At Shevic Energy, our priority is your safety.
What NOT to Do During a Gas Leak:
- Do not turn any lights or electrical appliances on or off. A spark from a light switch could ignite the gas.
- Do not use your mobile phone or a landline inside the building.
- Do not smoke, use lighters, or strike matches.
- Do not start a vehicle in or near the affected area.
Beyond the Guide: Partnering with a Local Expert
While following these safety tips is an excellent starting point, nothing beats the peace of mind that comes from working with a trusted local partner. We believe that gas safety is a continuous commitment, not just a one-off check. Choosing a reliable supplier like Shevic Energy means you have a partner who is dedicated to providing not only a consistent, high-quality product but also expert advice and support. Our team is trained to handle your gas needs with the utmost professionalism, ensuring every delivery and every interaction puts your safety first. We’re proud to serve the wider Pretoria area, providing efficient and reliable service that helps you focus on what matters most.
Conclusion
Gas is an incredible resource that brings comfort and convenience to our lives. By taking a few simple precautions—from storing your cylinders correctly to knowing the critical steps in an emergency—you can ensure that you and your family can enjoy its many benefits safely. Remember, being prepared is the best way to prevent a crisis. If you ever have a doubt, a question, or a concern, don’t hesitate to reach out. Your safety is our business.
Need a gas delivery or have a question about gas safety? Contact the Shevic Energy team today. We’re here to help.
Call or WhatsApp us at 084 691 6538 / 063 928 4877
