At Detector Inspector, during a gas service, we have an obligation to isolate any dangerous gas installations, which may be an appliance or a gas line. We take the strict guidelines Energy Safe Victoria provides very seriously and have a steadfast commitment to safer homes. Therefore, in some cases, we must disconnect gas appliances or the entire gas supply to a property.
Energy Safe Victoria provides expectations for gasfitters when dealing with a ‘dangerous installation’. This is communicated and available online through published articles called ‘Gas Information Sheets’; specifically, GIS 27: Dealing with a Dangerous Installation. A dangerous installation is defined as one that presents a threat to life or property.
In dealing with a dangerous installation, renters may experience considerable inconvenience; in this article, we aim to detail the process and clarify why it may occur.
Why do you perform a gas safety check in the first place?
Changes to the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 (Vic) introduced mandatory gas safety checks at residential rental properties from 29 March 2021. Every two years, a gas safety check must be carried out by a Type A Appliance Servicing accredited gas fitter and must meet the requirements outlined in the Residential Tenancies Regulations 2021.
The checks ensure that the appliances are running safely and efficiently, and that there are no dangerous faults in appliances or gas lines that could present a threat to life or property, such as carbon monoxide.
What does it mean when an appliance is capped off?
When an appliance is capped off, it means that it has been disconnected or isolated from the gas supply. As a result, the appliance cannot and will not operate until further action is taken. If an appliance is capped off, we promptly submit a quotation or recommendation for repair or replacement, if required, through a third party to the agency for review and action, typically on the same day.
A capped off gas appliance
Why would an appliance be capped off?
Gas installations and appliances are found to be dangerous because of various defects, which include the following:
- Unsafe installations
- Appliance safety devices tampered with or removed
- Significant gas escape
- Significant flue spillage
- Dangerous storage of LPG bottles
- Poor location of the appliance
- Carbon monoxide present or suspected
- Overheating of surrounding surfaces resulting in scorching with the potential for fire
Below is a bit more information about some of these scenarios. However, it is important to note that under the Gas Safety (Gas Installation) Regulations 2018, it is up to the gasfitter on site or their supervisor to decide on the integrity and risk of the appliance at the time. Many other scenarios could result in an appliance or gas line disconnection.
Carbon monoxide present or suspected: Carbon monoxide is poisonous, colourless, odourless and can be deadly. Any installation leaking carbon monoxide must be immediately capped off for the safety of occupants.
Cracked or damaged heat exchanger: Depending on the severity of damage on a heat exchanger, it can pose a safety risk and may lead to dangerous gas leaks or other hazards. The heat exchanger carries all the burnt gasses (carbon monoxide) from the burners to the combustion fan, where they are then pushed through the flue system to make its way to outside the property.
Incorrect air supply to the appliance: Gas appliances must have adequate air supply for combustion, meaning that using the appliance does not make the room or the area where it is installed unsafe. When there is not sufficient air supply, carbon monoxide can form.
Flue Issues: Problems with the flue, such as blockages or damage, can affect the safe venting of burnt gases and require immediate rectification.
What happens when a gas fitter identifies an issue?
At Detector Inspector, we follow the strict protocols outlined by Energy Safe Victoria. If a gas fitter identifies any of the above issues, they will cap off the gas appliance to ensure safety.
During winter, if a gas heating appliance is capped off and there is no alternative source of heating available, and the agency has an agreement with us, we will provide temporary electric heating to ensure renters remain comfortable while repairs are arranged.
If you have any questions or concerns about the capping off of gas appliances or temporary heating provision, please don't hesitate to contact your property manager.
