Here at K and M Maintenance, we are Preston’s leading gas engineers, and we work across the North West to provide a top quality service. As a result, we often witness homeowners and landlords flouting the safety expectations when it comes to heating equipment. Whether its a gas fire, or a portable gas heater, the risks are incredibly real, and can be deadly. To keep yourself and your home safe, follow our safety tips for gas appliances.
Maintain safe distances
A minimum distance of 3 foot should separate any gas powered heating equipment and any flammable objects. From stoves to gas fires, an errant tea-towel or piece of paperwork can easily start a house-fire, simply from passing sparks or becoming too hot.
Install and Test Alarms
It is alarming how many homeowners still do not use smoke alarms, despite the fact that they could save the life of you and your family. As a result, you need to make sure you have smoke alarms installed, especially in rooms with gas appliances. You also need to test these regularly, and replace the batteries when necessary.
Furthermore, you should also install carbon monoxide alarms next to all of the gas appliances in your home. Although carbon monoxide itself wont cause a fire, it can be produced as part of a general gas leak, which can lead to fires. It is also incredible toxic and can be fatal if it goes unnoticed.
Portable Gas heaters
Out of all the gas appliances, portable gas heaters are probably the most risky. You should only use a portable gas heater in a well ventilated room, and you should make sure you only use the correct, specified fuel type. Portable gas heaters also need to be switched off and unplugged when they are not in use, and when you are not there to watch them.
If you need any further advice, or would like a gas installation from a company that you trust, contact the experts at K and M Maintenance today.