When there is a gas leak around an LPG setup, the first priority is finding where the gas is escaping and making the installation safe.
On this job, there was an obvious problem with the existing gas regulator. It was leaking and needed to be replaced. But once the gas setup was inspected properly, we found that the regulator wasn’t the only issue.
There was also an open-ended gas valve and a problem with the gas isolation valve. That meant this wasn’t a case of simply replacing the regulator, turning the gas back on and walking away.
The gas regulator was leaking
The regulator is an important part of an LPG installation. It reduces the pressure coming from the gas cylinders down to the pressure required by the appliances inside the property.
When a regulator starts leaking, it needs to be dealt with. Gas escaping around the bottles or regulator assembly is not something that should be left to see if it gets worse.
In this case, the existing regulator was replaced with a new unit.
An open-ended gas valve created another problem
During the inspection, we also found an open-ended gas valve.
An unused gas connection should not simply be left open-ended. If the valve is accidentally opened, damaged or fails to isolate properly, it can create a direct path for gas to escape.
This is why a gas leak investigation should look at the complete installation rather than focusing only on the component that first appears to be leaking.
There was also an issue with the gas isolation valve
The gas isolation valve is there so the supply can be shut off when work needs to be carried out or when there is a problem with the installation.
We identified an issue with the existing isolation valve that still needed to be rectified.
Although the leaking regulator had been replaced, the gas supply was kept off because the remaining issue meant the system was not ready to be returned to normal operation.
Sometimes the correct repair is to leave the gas off
One of the important parts of gas fitting is knowing when a system should not be switched back on.
Replacing one faulty component does not automatically mean the rest of the installation is safe.
In this case there were multiple issues:
- A leaking LPG regulator
- An open-ended gas valve
- A problem with the gas isolation valve
The regulator could be replaced immediately, but the gas remained isolated until the outstanding problem could be properly rectified.
Gas installations need to be looked at as a complete system
Gas installations contain regulators, valves, pipework, fittings and appliance connections that all work together.
If one part of the system has failed, it is worth checking what else is happening rather than assuming that the first fault found is the only fault.
This is particularly important with older LPG installations or systems that may have been modified over time.
What should you do if you suspect a gas leak?
If you can smell gas around your LPG cylinders, regulator or gas appliances, don’t ignore it.
A licensed gas fitter can inspect the installation, identify where the leak is coming from and check whether there are any other issues that need attention before the gas is returned to service.
If something about your LPG setup doesn’t look right, or you have concerns about a regulator, valve or gas connection, contact RJT Plumbing & Gas to have it inspected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a leaking LPG gas regulator dangerous?
A leaking LPG regulator can allow gas to escape from the installation. If you can smell gas or suspect a regulator is leaking, the system should be inspected by a licensed gas fitter.
What does an LPG gas regulator do?
An LPG regulator reduces the pressure of the gas coming from the cylinders to the pressure required by the property's gas appliances and installation.
Why is an open-ended gas valve a problem?
An open-ended gas connection can provide a path for gas to escape if the valve is opened, damaged or does not isolate correctly. Unused gas connections should be properly assessed and made safe by a licensed gas fitter.
What does a gas isolation valve do?
A gas isolation valve allows the gas supply to be shut off so servicing, repairs or emergency work can be carried out safely.
Can the gas be turned back on after replacing a leaking regulator?
Not always. If other problems are found elsewhere in the installation, the gas may need to remain isolated until those issues have also been rectified.
What should I do if I smell gas around my LPG bottles?
Avoid ignition sources and arrange for the installation to be inspected by a licensed gas fitter. Do not attempt to repair gas regulators, valves or pipework yourself.
