Appliance safety
Safety first
When installing new gas appliances, be sure to consult with a licensed gas contractor.
To find a registered natural gas contractor visit these websites.
- British Columbia Safety Authority
- Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Contractors of Canada
- Thermal Environmental Comfort Association
For Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast
Check out these Qualified Dealers
Maintain your appliances
Regular inspection, cleaning and maintenance ensures your safety and helps keep your gas appliances operating at their best.
As a customer, you have a role in using natural gas equipment safely in your home. This includes looking after piping, appliances, venting, combustion air supply and above-ground or buried piping past your gas meter. The owner's manual that comes with your natural gas appliances is the best source of maintenance information and other operating instructions.
A qualified gas contractor should inspect your gas appliances. When selecting a contractor, make sure that personnel are licensed gasfitters and experienced at inspecting all types of gas appliances for safe operation.
Safety checklist
- Make sure the areas around gas appliances and vent pipes are kept clear of combustible materials like laundry, paper, paints, solvents and propane cylinders.
- Do not store lawnmowers, motorcycles and other gasoline-powered equipment or vehicles indoors or near gas appliances.
- Remember that gas appliances have open flames and can be a source of ignition. Do not use combustible products such as solvents and glues in the area.
- Make sure there is an adequate supply of air to gas appliances. Do not block off the duct bringing in outside air and check with your local gas inspector or heating contractor before enclosing appliances.
- Know where to find the shut-off valve for each appliance and how to use it — the gas is "off" when the valve handle is at a right angle to the gas pipe.
Inspect buried piping for leaks or corrosion periodically and repair if necessary. Your gas contractor can locate, inspect and repair your buried gas piping. Or, look up "Corrosion Control" in the Yellow Pages for a list of other professionals providing this service.
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