What is a gas fitter?

Gas fitting is a highly skilled and often dangerous occupation. A gas fitter is a person who has passed a rigorous test, and can work with all types of gas fireplaces, heating equipment and appliances. A gas fitting plumber will have got their plumbing qualifications.

What tasks can a gas fitter perform?

It requires knowledge of the types of gas appliances and the materials used, as well as the correct procedures to carry out repairs, installations or improvements. Gas fitting can involve working at heights in enclosed spaces such as attics and roof spaces.

A gas fitter is able to perform tasks on all gas works, including new installations of gas appliances, new gas connections and repairs to anything gas related. They can also carry out safety checks of all gas appliances and replace old gas fittings with new ones. They also carry out checks on gas appliances, including the installation and maintenance of safety devices.

A Gas Fitter is able to:

Install, maintain and repair any type of gas appliance or equipment

Tighten all connections so that they are secure

Test for leaks by inserting a thin wire into the system to detect bubbles of escaping gas

Perform safety checks and repairs on gas appliances such as boilers, fires and hot water cylinders

Check the meter readings to determine if there is a leak in the system or not. If there is a leak they will be able to advise you where it may be coming from. They can also provide advice on what measures you should take so as not to cause any further problems with your home's heating systems. This could include turning off certain valves, changing fuse settings etc.

Once a gas fitter has completed their works, they will give a certificate of completion which states that it complies with all safety measures and has been undertaken by a qualified professional.

Types of gas appliances

Gas heaters - A licensed gas fitter is able to install and repair gas heaters which is important during the cooler months.

Gas Stove and oven - One of the more common appliances to have on mains gas is a gas stove and oven. These appliances give fantastic control over temperatures during cooking and are a preferred method of cooking in many homes.

Gas Hot Water Systems - Having instant hot water when you need it is amazing with water being heated from the unit before coming through the pipes. It saves a lot of space also with not having to have large storage tanks. Storage type gas boilers can also be installed and repaired.

Gas Barbecue - Having a barbecue running from mains gas is a great way to save time and money on costly gas bottles.

Gas Fitter Safety

All work carried out by a licensed gas fitter must comply with strict safety regulations, for example:

Only qualified people should carry out this type of work;

The work site must be kept clean, tidy and safe from fire hazards;

A record of all equipment being used must be kept;

Ladders can only be used when there is no risk of accidental fall or serious injury; Although it may sound obvious, no smoking while working on any heating appliance or appliance connected to gas (including cigarettes).