Updated: August 2026
Gas Safety Week takes place every September and is a useful reminder of the importance of keeping gas appliances, heating systems and homes safe.
For homeowners, landlords and tenants, a few simple checks can make a real difference. Gas appliances should always be installed, serviced and repaired by a suitably qualified Gas Safe registered engineer, and any unusual signs should be taken seriously.
Here are ten practical ways to help keep your home gas safe.
1. Always Use a Gas Safe Registered Engineer
Any work involving gas appliances should be carried out by a suitably qualified engineer who is registered with Gas Safe.
This includes work on:
- Gas boilers
- Gas fires
- Gas cookers
- Gas pipework
- Other gas appliances
Before work begins, you can check an engineer’s registration and qualifications through the Gas Safe Register.
2. Check the Engineer Is Qualified for the Work
Being Gas Safe registered does not automatically mean an engineer is qualified for every type of gas work.
An engineer’s Gas Safe ID card shows the categories of work they are approved to carry out.
If you are unsure, ask to see the card and check the details before the work begins.
3. Keep Up With Boiler Servicing
Regular boiler servicing can help identify potential problems and make sure the appliance is operating safely.
A service also gives the engineer an opportunity to check the condition of key components and spot signs of wear before they develop into a more serious fault.
For many households, arranging an annual boiler service is a simple way to stay on top of heating maintenance.
4. Know the Warning Signs of Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is difficult to detect because it cannot be seen, smelled or tasted.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure can include:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Breathlessness
- Collapse
- Loss of consciousness
If several people in the same property suddenly feel unwell, particularly around a gas appliance, it should never be ignored.
5. Fit a Carbon Monoxide Alarm
A carbon monoxide alarm provides an important additional layer of protection.
It should be installed in the correct location and tested regularly in line with the manufacturer’s instructions.
An alarm does not replace proper appliance servicing and maintenance, but it can help alert you to the presence of carbon monoxide.
6. Look Out for Changes in Your Gas Appliances
Gas appliances should be checked if they begin behaving differently.
Warning signs can include:
- Unusual flames
- Soot or staining around the appliance
- Increased condensation
- Strange smells
- New or unusual noises
- The appliance repeatedly switching off
These signs do not always mean there is an immediate danger, but they are a good reason to arrange an inspection.
7. Keep Vents and Flues Clear
Ventilation and flues play an important role in the safe operation of some gas appliances.
Do not block air vents, and make sure flues and chimneys are not obstructed.
If you are renovating or changing the layout of a room containing a gas appliance, consider whether any ventilation requirements could be affected.
8. Never Use a Gas Appliance for the Wrong Purpose
Gas appliances should only be used for their intended purpose.
For example, a gas cooker should never be used as a way of heating a room.
Using appliances incorrectly can increase the risk of carbon monoxide exposure and other safety issues.
9. Know What to Do If You Smell Gas
If you smell gas or believe there may be a gas leak, treat it as an emergency.
Avoid using anything that could create a spark, ventilate the property if it is safe to do so, and follow the official emergency advice for your area.
Do not try to investigate or repair a suspected gas leak yourself.
10. Do Not Ignore Small Problems
Many heating and gas problems start with relatively minor warning signs.
A boiler that keeps losing pressure, an appliance making unusual noises or a heating system becoming unreliable may all be signs that something needs checking.
Getting a problem looked at early can help prevent it becoming more serious later.
Gas Safety for Landlords
Landlords also have specific legal responsibilities around gas safety.
This includes arranging annual safety checks on relevant gas appliances and flues, providing tenants with the appropriate Gas Safety Record and ensuring gas fittings are properly maintained.
If you are a landlord, it is important to keep a clear record of inspections, servicing and maintenance.
Gas Safety Services in Worcester
Elgar Services provides boiler servicing, boiler repairs, gas safety checks and heating services across Worcester, Worcestershire and the surrounding areas.
Our Gas Safe registered engineers can help with routine servicing, landlord gas safety checks and diagnosing issues with gas appliances and heating systems.
If your boiler is due a service or you have noticed something unusual with your heating, get in touch with Elgar Services.
Updated: August 2026
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