What You Should Know About Gas Installation in the UK
Getting a new gas installation can be expensive. Costs will vary depending on how big the house is and what type of appliance it needs. It is a good idea to shop around and find a reputable company. It is important to choose a supplier before you begin the installation. You can contact Citizens Advice for free advice on energy issues. You should check to see if the installer is registered before you hire them.
You must ensure all gas appliances have been installed by qualified engineers. This is required law. You can check a gas engineer by checking their identification card or calling the Health and Safety Executive. Do-it-yourself gas appliance repairs are illegal. There are risks involved in poorly fitted appliances, such as leaks and carbon monoxide poisoning. The number of people dying from carbon monoxide poisoning in the UK is 30 per year.
Gas Safe certified engineers must inspect your boiler. This is legal. Your appliance should be serviced on a regular basis. Unsafe appliances should not be used. An annual gas safety record should be kept. If you suspect that your gas appliance has a problem, you should call the HSE immediately. You can also get information on carbon monoxide and other gas safety matters from the GasSafe.org website.
There is a national television campaign to raise awareness of the dangers of carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide poisoning can cause headaches, confusion and other symptoms. This is a deadly disease which can strike without warning and kill in a matter of hours. To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, have your appliances serviced and checked by Gas Safe certified engineers.
Depending on where you live, a gas installation could cost thousands. Price will be affected by the length and distance of your pipework from the mains as well as the boiler type you choose. A large project will require more labor. You can also expect to pay more if you need to run the pipes through other people’s property.
You may also have to pay for an engineer to do the work. While charges for work done during the day are less, out-of-hours work can be more expensive.
A Gas Safe register ID card will prove that the person you are hiring is a professional. This card will show that the engineer is properly trained. If you are installing a new gas appliance, you should ask to see the ID card before you agree to hire the service.