Heat and cook safely

Gas is an efficient way to heat your home and cook. Find out how to safely enjoy the benefits of gas.

In the kitchen

Don't get distracted in the kitchen. If you have something on the stove and get called away, turn off the burners or take a wooden spoon with you to remind you that you've left your cooking. Never leave frying chips unattended – the oil may boil over and start a fire.

Gas cookers

It is important that your kitchen complies with certain safety standards. Gas cookers and hotplates must have adequate clearance from combustible surfaces, for example:
  • Range-hoods must be at least 600mm above the cooking appliance
  • Exhaust fans must be 750mm above the appliance
  • Burners must have clearances of 200mm, unless the nearby wall or surface is suitably protected.

Gas heating

Gas heating is clean and safe, but appliances require- regular maintenance:
  • Have your gas heater serviced, including checking and cleaning the fan, every two years
  • Make sure that your heating system is installed and maintained by a licensed gasfitter
  • Ask your gasfitter for a Compliance Certificate on completion of any installation work
  • Consider replacing old appliances (20+ years)
  • Avoid buying second-hand appliances

Prohibited installations

Certain appliances have been prohibited within the home, including:
  • A flueless space heater operating on Natural Gas where combustible products are released less than 2.5m above floor level.

More information

Energy Safe Victoria on 1800 069 588 during business hours.
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