Why Gas Safety Matters
Gas is an essential part of many Brisbane homes, keeping our kitchens cooking and our water hot. It’s reliable, efficient, and cost-effective—until something goes wrong. A small leak, a faulty connection, or a failing appliance can quickly turn from an inconvenience into a serious hazard.
Between July 2021 and June 2022, Australia recorded 24 LPG-related accidents, leading to 28 casualties, including one fatality. Many of these incidents started as minor issues—like a slow leak or a malfunctioning burner—before escalating into fires, explosions, or carbon monoxide poisoning.
Gas problems aren’t always obvious at first. That’s why knowing the warning signs and acting fast can mean the difference between a simple repair and a life-threatening emergency.
Common Signs You Need a Gas Fitter
Ignoring gas issues can be dangerous, but the good news is your home often gives you warning signs before things get serious. Here are the biggest red flags that mean it’s time to call a licensed gas fitter.
1. You Smell Gas Indoors or Outdoors
Gas has no natural scent, but suppliers add a rotten egg smell to help detect leaks. If you notice this odour inside or outside your home, it’s a serious warning sign. Act fast: turn off the gas at the meter, open windows for ventilation, and call a professional immediately.
2. Low Gas Pressure or Appliances Not Working Properly
Struggling to get a strong flame on your stovetop? Is your gas heater barely warming up? Low gas pressure can mean a leak, a faulty regulator, or a problem with the supply line. If you’ve also lost hot water, don’t ignore it—get a licensed gas fitter to check your system before it gets worse.
3. Pilot Lights Keep Going Out
A pilot light that won’t stay lit isn’t just frustrating—it could point to a ventilation issue or gas flow problem. Worse still, faulty gas appliances can leak carbon monoxide, a deadly, invisible gas that can cause poisoning with no warning. If your pilot light keeps flickering out, it’s time for a professional check.
4. Sudden Increase in Gas Bills
Noticed a big spike in your gas bill, but your usage hasn’t changed? An undetected leak could be the culprit. Even small leaks add up over time, wasting energy and putting your home at risk. If your bill seems unusually high, it’s worth getting your system inspected.
5. Unexplained Health Symptoms
Headaches, dizziness, nausea, or constant fatigue? These symptoms could point to low-level gas exposure or carbon monoxide poisoning. Cooking with gas has also been linked to 12% of childhood asthma cases in Australia, making proper ventilation and appliance maintenance critical for health and safety.
If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs, don’t wait—call a licensed gas fitter before a small issue turns into a major hazard.
The Hidden Dangers of Gas Leaks
A gas leak isn’t just an annoying smell or a spike in your energy bill—it’s a serious safety risk. Leaking gas can cause fires, explosions, and even deadly carbon monoxide poisoning. It only takes a small spark near a leak to trigger disaster.
But the dangers don’t stop inside your home. Gas leaks also have a huge environmental impact. Methane, the main component of natural gas, is a powerful greenhouse gas—far more harmful than carbon dioxide. In fact, over 100 locations across 35 fossil fuel sites in Queensland and New South Wales have been identified as major sources of methane leaks.
Even small, undetected leaks in homes and businesses contribute to air pollution and climate change. That’s why fixing leaks isn’t just about safety—it’s about protecting your home, your family, and the planet. If you suspect a gas leak, act fast. Turn off the gas and call a licensed fitter immediately.
Why You Need a Licensed Gas Fitter in Brisbane
When it comes to gas, cutting corners isn’t an option. Gas leaks, faulty appliances, and low pressure aren’t just inconvenient, they’re dangerous. That’s why hiring a licensed gas fitter is the safest and smartest choice.
Safety First
DIY gas work is illegal in Queensland—and for good reason. A wrong connection, a poorly sealed pipe, or a makeshift repair can lead to explosions, fires, or carbon monoxide poisoning. Licensed gas fitters have the right training and tools to ensure everything is installed and repaired safely.
Proper Diagnosis & Repairs
Not all gas issues are obvious. A professional gas fitter can pressure-test lines, pinpoint hidden leaks, and check for faulty regulators. Whether it’s a minor repair or a full system upgrade, an expert ensures your gas system is working efficiently and safely.
Compliance & Certification
Only licensed gas fitters can provide a Gas Compliance Certificate, which is legally required for any gas installation or major repair in Brisbane. This certificate isn’t just paperwork, it proves your system meets Australian safety standards, protecting you from fines and potential hazards.
If you suspect a gas issue, don’t take risks, call a licensed gas fitter and get it fixed the right way.
What to Do If You Suspect a Gas Issue
Gas leaks can escalate quickly, so acting fast can prevent a disaster. If you notice a strong gas smell, hear a hissing sound near gas lines, or experience symptoms like dizziness or nausea, follow these steps immediately:
- Turn off the gas supply at the meter – Locate your gas meter and switch it off to stop the flow of gas. If you’re unsure how, ask your gas fitter to show you for future emergencies.
- Open windows and doors – Ventilation helps disperse the gas, reducing the risk of buildup and potential ignition.
- Avoid electrical switches, lighters, or matches – Even a small spark from flipping a light switch or using a mobile phone can ignite gas in the air. Stay clear of anything that could create a flame or spark.
- Call a licensed gas fitter immediately – Do not attempt to fix the issue yourself. A professional gas fitter has the tools and expertise to locate leaks, repair faults, and restore your system safely.
If the smell is overwhelming or you feel unwell, leave the property immediately and call emergency services. Your safety comes first.
What’s That Smell?
It Could Be a Gas Leak!
Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs: Call a Licensed Gas Fitter Today!
Gas issues aren’t just an inconvenience, they’re a serious safety risk. From leaks and low pressure to faulty appliances, recognising the warning signs early can prevent costly repairs, protect your home, and even save lives. Whether it’s a strange smell, a flickering pilot light, or an unexplained spike in your gas bill, don’t ignore it.
