By PAGE Editor

Have you heard your parents mention gas fitters before when talking about work around the house? Gas systems can be pretty dangerous, so gas fitters like Plumberoo Plumbing are really important professionals who work on them.

In this article, we'll explore exactly what gas fitters do and why they're so essential for handling gas lines and appliances safely. Get ready for a crash course on all things gas fitting.

What is a Gas Fitter?

A gas fitter is a trained professional who installs, maintains, repairs and removes gas lines and gas-powered systems in homes and businesses.

They work on things like gas stoves, ovens, water heaters, space heaters, dryers, outdoor grills and more. Any appliance that connects to natural gas or propane requires a gas fitter's expertise.

Gas fitters are also responsible for the pipelines and valves that deliver gas within buildings. They need specialized skills to handle gas systems properly and prevent fires, explosions, or carbon monoxide leaks.

Why Gas Appliance Work Needs Pros

You may wonder - why can't I just work on a gas stove or water heater myself? Great question. Gas systems involve serious safety risks that require licensed pros.

Gas naturally wants to escape, so gas pipe connections need to be perfectly air-tight. Just a tiny leak can lead to big trouble if the odorless gas builds up.

Gas fitters have intensive training on properly joining and sealing gas piping. Doing this yourself risks deadly gas leaks.

The same goes for gas appliance installations. Connecting a stove or heater incorrectly can allow hazardous gas accumulation and carbon monoxide poisoning.

Gas Fitter Training and Certification

To become a licensed gas fitter requires 1-5 years of apprenticeship and training to learn:

• Gas safety protocols and leak prevention

• Pipe joining methods like soldering, brazing and welding

• Correct appliance hookups and pressure testing

• Gas valve, regulator and meter functions

• Venting and exhaust requirements

• Code compliance and inspection processes

Gas fitter apprentices must complete a state certification exam to demonstrate their competency in order to be licensed. Continuing education is also required to stay current with codes and best practices.

Proper licensing ensures gas fitters have the required expertise to handle systems safely. Always verify licensing.

When Do You Need a Gas Fitter?

The most common times to hire a professional gas fitter include:

• Installing new gas appliances like stoves, water heaters etc.

• Fixing or upgrading gas lines and broken pipelines

• Moving or extending gas appliance connections

• Performing appliance maintenance and repairs

• Conducting annual gas safety checks

• Removing old gas appliances and pipelines

Basically anytime gas lines or appliances need adjustment, gas fitters have the proper training to handle it correctly.

Warning Signs to Call a Gas Fitter

Here are some warning signs that indicate you need to call a gas fitter right away:

• Gas odor inside, outside or near appliances

• Visible corrosion or damage to gas lines

• Applicances with low flame or not igniting properly

• Pilot lights frequently going out

• Excess carbon buildup on appliances

• Rooms with poor ventilation where gas is used

If anything seems off with your gas systems, play it safe and contact a licensed pro.

Gas Fitter Safety gear

Gas fitting work requires specialized safety gear like:

• Fire resistant clothing in case of ignition

• Gas monitors to detect leaks

• Combustible gas detectors

• Explosion-proof drop lights

• Respirators to prevent gas inhalation

This protective equipment keeps gas fitters safe while working in hazardous environments with flammable gas.

Fun Facts About Gas Fitters

Here are a few interesting tidbits about gas fitters:

• The first gas-powered appliances appeared in the early 1800s

• Early gas pipes were made from wood before switching to iron then steel

• Natural gas is odorless - the "rotten egg" smell is added for safety

• Propane gas was invented in 1910 by a chemist named Walter Snelling

• Gas fitting work typically pays $40-$100 per hour

Conclusion 

Well we hope this gives you a helpful overview of what gas fitters do. They play an essential role making sure our gas appliances and systems operate safely. Next time your family needs gas work done, make sure to hire a fully certified pro.

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