Gas safety
It’s important to make sure your boiler and other gas appliances, such as cookers and fires, are working properly. And as a homeowner, you are responsible for arranging your own gas safety check.
A gas safety check helps detect any safety risks and prevents the following:
- Gas leaks
- Fires
- Explosions
- Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning
It is particularly important you have your boiler serviced regularly if you have a hidden flue, which is the pipe that takes the burnt gases out of your home. If your gas boiler is located on an internal wall, your flue may be concealed in ductwork (boxing to cover the flue) or in a false ceiling. If your flue is hidden it can be difficult to see whether it is still in good condition. This makes it all the more important to have it checked when your boiler is serviced. If your flue is broken, your boiler may not work correctly and carbon monoxide (CO) could enter your home. CO is a poisonous gas that can cause harm to you and your family, and can even kill.
Who should carry out my gas safety check?
It’s important to choose a Gas Safe registered engineer to carry out the safety check. This means they are legal and qualified to work on gas appliances.
For more information, visit the Gas Safe Register website at www.gassaferegister.co.uk. The website also allows you to search for certified engineers in your area.
You can expect to pay around £50 for a gas safety check, and we advise you to compare quotes from around three different engineers before hiring someone.
Is there anything else I can do to protect my home?
We recommend you install at least one carbon monoxide detector in your home. These are available in DIY stores, are often easy to install, and can cost as little as £10. They can help avoid potentially dangerous situations going unnoticed, but a detector should not be a substitute for regular servicing and checks.
If you install a detector, please read and follow the manufacturers’ installation and maintenance instructions.
If you have a CO alarm that alerts you may be suffering the symptoms of CO poisoning, or you have other immediate safety concerns, stop using the your gas appliance and contact the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999.