When you buy a home, you quickly learn that along with the joys of home ownership comes full responsibility for keeping your house and property in great condition. Almost from the moment you move into your new home, you will find yourself discovering something that needs fixing or attention.
Sometimes you can easily tackle the issue with the knowledge and tools you already have. If you need a bit of assistance, some helpful online videos or neighbourly advice will point you in the right do-it-yourself direction. At other times, like with plumbing or gas repairs or upgrades, you might find that you need the services of a trained professional. In this case, it’s helpful to know when to call a plumber vs gas fitter in Melbourne for your service needs.
Scope and Type of Services
A plumber will primarily handle and work with systems that are water-related. They are responsible for the installation, repair and maintenance of toilets, taps, showers, pipes and your drainage systems. Licensed plumbers can also conduct inspections if they need to identify water pressure problems and leaks or troubleshoot issues with non-gas hot water systems.
You will know when to call a gas fitter if you need work done on appliances, hot water systems, gas ducted heating or other components that are connected to natural gas or LPG systems. These professionals are trained to install gas lines, connect appliances and heaters, and to check for any gas leaks. Because of the dangerous nature of natural gas and LPG, gas fitting requires both high-level expertise and compliance with applicable local standards.
Certification and Licensing Requirements
In Melbourne, all gas fitting and plumbing work needs to be performed by licensed and trained professionals. The VBA (Victorian Building Authority) oversees standards for training, competency and licensing.
Tradespeople in Melbourne may hold a dual license for gas fitting and plumbing. As a homeowner, you will want to verify these credentials before hiring a company. By using the services of a licensed professional, you ensure adherence to legal regulations and safety standards. This is especially important for work where compliance certificates are required.
Common Issues Requiring Service
You’ll typically call a plumber for common water-related issues such as clogged drains, dripping taps or running toilets. They will also come to the rescue if there are burst pipes, or issues with drainage, water flow or water heating (except for gas water heaters).
You will want to call a gas fitter right away if you smell gas in the home, or hear a hissing noise near gas appliances. They can also address any problems with your gas-powered cooking or heating systems. It’s critical to contact a qualified gas fitter, because of the dangers associated with any gas leaks or potential carbon monoxide exposure.
Home Installation Projects
If you are doing a kitchen or bathroom renovation, it’s likely that you may have to use the services of both plumbers and gas fitters. The plumbers will be installing sinks, dishwashers, new taps and water fixtures, and showers and tubs. They’ll also help ensure that you have the right water pressure and proper drainage and that your hot water is hooked in properly.
Gas fitters, on the other hand, will provide services in relocating or installing any gas appliances like ovens, outdoor BBQs and gas hot water systems. They are responsible for ensuring that each gas connection is leak-free and meets the applicable Australian Standards.
Before you make a call for professional services, you’ll need to determine the nature of the issue. If the service you need is water-related, then a call to a professional Melbourne plumber is the right move. When you have an issue related to natural gas or LPG, then ring up a licensed gas fitter for the work.
At J.O Plumbing we are both licensed plumbers and gas fitters. Contact us today to see how we can help.
