What is a Gas Fitting?
Ever pondered over that curious thing we call a “gas fitting”? It’s a term you may have stumbled upon when dealing with home renovations and searches for new appliances.
A simple concept, but it’s tangled up with myriad other complex terminologies. Here’s everything you need to know about it.
Now, let’s start with the question that brought us here in the first place: “What is a gas fitting?”
Well, a gas fitting consists of a range of equipment like hoses and pipes that connect gas appliances to the gas supply. Responsible for carrying gas, these fittings need to be sturdy, robust, and seal perfectly to prevent any potential gas leaks.
A Variety of Gas Fittings
Our trek through the realm of gas fittings wouldn’t be complete without deciphering the varieties of fittings used specifically for gas.
These fittings tying the knots between your gas hoses are made from metals such as brass or steel. The type of material depends on the precise job they’re meant for.
There is a good chance you’ll stumble across an array of types. Think T joints, elbows, reducers, and the like. They’re all designed to connect, divert, extend, or halt gas flow through your gas hoses.
Fitting a 9 kg Gas Bottle
Let’s start with the smallest but most essential device, the fitting on a standard 9 kg gas bottle. You’ll typically find a Prest-O-Lite (POL) fitting, keeping things snug and safe.
POL denotes a certain kind of valve – named after the company that first made it, Prest-O-Lite. With its reverse, left-handed thread, it is designed to suit the very container it sits atop, providing a firm bond and safe gas transfer.
Plumbing Fittings vs Gas Fittings
So far, our journey has been a romp through the domain of fittings’ gas hoses, but this brings us to an interesting junction. Have you ever considered if plumbing fittings could moonlight as gas fittings?
The sea of fittings available in the plumbing sections of hardware stores might seem enticing, but your best bet is to steer clear.
Pipes and fittings from the plumbing realm are designed for water flow rather than gas. While they may appear similar, they do not typically have the specifics to handle gas passing through them.
Always opt for fittings specifically intended for gas use to avoid any risky business that could come from retrofitting plumbing parts.
The Role of Professionals
Before we end our venture into the world of gas fittings, it’s vital to mention the role of professionals in this field.
When dealing with gas fittings, it’s better not to embark on a DIY journey. When you need to lay hands on anything related to gas fittings and gas hoses, make sure you find a certified gas fitter to do the job.
View it as a delicate dance between safety, efficiency, and immense technical knowledge. The proposition is such that only a suitably qualified person can guarantee safety and regulatory compliance.
Make sure you engage licenced gas fitters as they have undergone certified training, are well-versed in the relevant Australian Standard (AS5601) and have the necessary know-how.
Gas Fittings, Demystified
Remember, safety should always go with gas fittings, and a licensed professional’s guidance will help guarantee that.
From the gas fitting system itself to the features jutting out of it, each piece is an integral part of the whole picture, serving to deliver gas safely from source to appliance.
Now that we’ve demystified the world of gas fittings, take a moment to appreciate these unsung heroes next time you’re savouring a perfectly seared steak or enjoying a hot cuppa.
Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.
