USING Liquid Petroleum (LP) gas in the home is a popular choice as it serves a great purpose during power outages and helps cut down one’s monthly electricity bill.
Other than the gas supplied via municipal gas lines, LP gas is the most convenient form of gas one can use in the home. When used properly, it can be used as an alternative to electricity.
If you’re thinking about incorporating gas into your home, there are guidelines that should be followed to ensure its safe use.
Buying cylinders and gas
Gas cylinders work on an exchange system, unless you own your own smaller gas cylinders. If you own a cylinder, which usually comes in three kilograms, 4,5 kg or seven kilograms, you can refill it as and when required.
However, whether rented or owned, it is important that you only buy gas at an authorised dealer like specialist gas suppliers, hardware stores or retail outlets. Many service stations also offer a refilling or swop exchange service for gas cylinders.
The in-situ method is the best option for larger or whole house cylinder installations. Upkeep and maintenance of the cylinders and valves remain the responsibility of the accredited installer or supplier. They perform the necessary maintenance to ensure these components remain safe.
An installer will also undertake proper fitting and installation of the cylinders.
Good to know
In its natural state, gas is odourless. For safety reasons, a chemical agent is added to the gas to give it its distinctive odour, allowing for detection of any leaks.
Gas cylinders are fitted with a regulator, and these differ according to the size of the container. Smaller, domestic containers are fitted with a 3/8th thread, while larger cylinders (nine kilograms up) have a 5/8th thread.
Refilling gas cylinders
Gas cylinders are never filled to capacity to allow for the gas to expand and contract.
If you want to make sure that the cylinder is empty, give it a shake. This will give you an indication of how much liquid is still inside. Overfilled gas cylinders are a known source of fire risk, which is why it is important to only have cylinders filled or exchanged at an authorised dealer.
Before transporting the gas, tightly close the valve on the cylinder and remove the regulator. Keep the container upright during transportation and repeat this when returning and fitting a full container.
Should you detect any odour, act immediately. Check that the valve is closed and take the cylinder outdoors. Ventilate the inside area to prevent gas build-up.
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