A gas fitter is a plumber with more specialised skills and certifications that makes them able and legally accredited to perform gas fitting works in Australian residential and commercial establishments. They can easily install gas-powered appliances and tap them into the main gas lines, safely and within building and construction codes.
Professionals who are trained and licensed in gas fitting are equipped with the latest knowledge and technology in the repair, installation, service and replacement of natural gas appliances in residential, commercial and industrial areas. They are also responsible for installing regulators, burners and valves, gas meters and for the installation, repair, maintenance and certifications of gas heating systems.
A gas fitter Wollongong tradesman, as well as gas plumbers in other Sydney suburbs in Australia, covers several gas related plumbing duties. These include the following:
- Gas pipes installation, repair, rectification and maintenance
- Installing gas detection and pressure regulating systems
- Installation of gas-powered appliances, fixtures and other associated equipment
- Gas appliance flues installation
- Reading and interpreting gas fitting plans and drawings
- Testing and diagnosis for pipe work and gas appliances
- Gas appliance maintenance
- Installation of LPG systems in boats and caravans
- Maintaining ancillary equipment and popes using flute glasses
Plumber versus Gas Fitter
A gas fitter is oftentimes confused with a plumber. In some countries, these two are completely different professionals. However, in Australia, a licensed plumber is also capable and equipped in providing gas-fitting services. However, a gas fitter is not fit to do plumbing work if they are only trained for gas fitting work requirements.
However, in most cases, gas fitters usually begin with a plumbing apprenticeship as a basic stepping stone for further courses and training in gas fitting. They also undergo specialised gas fitting training combined with plumbing works. Gas fitters can stick to the specialised profession or opt to continue working towards a license and accreditation in plumbing.
Trainings and Certifications for Gas Fitting
The basic requirement to become a certified gas fitting professional is apprenticeship. The apprenticeship includes classroom and on-the-job training for an aspiring gas specialist, supervised by a certified gas fitter. During this state, they will learn on-site placements. Additionally, most apprenticeship programs are paid, with wages starting at 50% of the hourly rate of a certified gas fitter. The rate gradually increases during the course of the apprenticeship until the aspiring gas fitter becomes certified.
Completing the Certificate IV Gas Supply Industry Operations (UEG40118) is also a basic part of the gas fitting apprenticeship. Depending on the state where you are planning to practice your gas fitting profession, there are additional documents and registrations to undergo before becoming a duly certified gas fitter. Accreditations are also required for a gas fitter to be considered as a capable professional for any construction site in Australia. They will need to secure a White Card to get the necessary accreditation.
How to Determine if You Are Working with a Certified Gas Fitter
Gas fitting work is a crucial part of the plumbing industry. It requires a trained and licensed professional to ensure that all work is done within standards and safely executed. There are many ways to determine if you are about to work with a licensed gas fitter.
Regulations for gas log sets o’fallon mo are different, depending on what state you are practicing the profession. In Victoria, it is illegal to hire a non-licensed gas fitter to do gas fitting work for any kind of establishment or property. An individual must meet the necessary requirements, licenses and accreditation before they can practice gas fitting as a profession.
To know if a gas fitter is accredited, you can ask for a gas fitting license card to prove that they are safe and equipped to work on your gas appliance and system. A gas fitter must also be able to present insurance that covers their work for a minimum of 6 years. A licensed gas fitter is capable of issuing a Compliance Certificate in any completed job that they do.
