Do You Smell Gas? Here’s What to Do Before Calling a Brisbane Gas Fitter 

Do You Smell Gas? Here’s What to Do Before Calling a Brisbane Gas Fitter 

6 August 2025 5 min read

Smelling gas in your home or business is no small matter. Whether it’s a faint whiff near the stove or a strong odor throughout your property, gas leaks are serious and must be dealt with immediately. But before you panic or make that call to a Brisbane Gas Fitter , there are a few essential steps you can take to protect yourself and others. 

What You’ll Find in This Blog: 

  1. Understanding the Smell of Gas 
  2. Immediate Steps to Take if You Suspect a Gas Leak 
  3. What NOT to Do During a Gas Leak 
  4. When to Call a Gas Emergency Plumber in Brisbane 
  5. Preventing a Future Gas Leak in Brisbane Homes or Businesses 
  6. Final Thoughts & Contact Info 

Let’s break it down so you’re prepared and informed the moment you smell something suspicious. 

What to Do Before Calling a Brisbane Gas Fitter 

  1. Understanding the Smell of Gas

Natural gas and LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) are naturally odourless, but gas companies add a chemical called mercaptan to make it easier to detect leaks. This gives off a distinctive smell—often compared to rotten eggs or sulphur—which is hard to miss once it’s in the air. 

If you’re sensing this smell around appliances, in enclosed areas, or outdoors near gas lines, it’s crucial to treat it as a potential gas leak in Brisbane and respond immediately. 

  1. Immediate Steps to Take if You Suspect a Gas Leak

If you smell gas or suspect a leak, taking the right actions immediately can save lives and property. Here’s what to do first: 

  1. Turn Off the Gas Supply

Locate your gas meter or cylinder valve and shut it off if it’s safe to do so. This will help prevent further gas from entering your home or business. 

  • For mains gas: Turn the gas meter valve 90 degrees to the horizontal “off” position. 
  • For LPG bottles: Rotate the valve clockwise until fully closed. 
  1. Ventilate the Area

Open windows and doors to allow fresh air in and let gas escape. Proper ventilation reduces the risk of gas concentration and explosive buildup. 

  1. Evacuate the Premises

Get everyone out of the building immediately—especially if the smell is strong, causing symptoms, or seems to be spreading. 

  1. Contact a Gas Emergency Plumber

Once you’re in a safe location, call a qualified gas emergency plumber in Brisbane for help. Don’t wait until the situation worsens. 

  1. What NOT to Do During a Gas Leak

Just as important as knowing what to do is knowing what not to do. Certain actions can trigger ignition or worsen the problem. 

Don’t Use Electrical Devices 

This includes lights, switches, phones, or any powered devices. Even a minor spark from flipping a switch can ignite gas in the air. 

Don’t Try to Find the Leak Source with Flame 

Never use candles, lighters, or matches to “test” for gas. This is extremely dangerous. 

Don’t Ignore It or Wait It Out 

Even if the smell seems minor or disappears after a while, gas leaks don’t resolve on their own. They can return unexpectedly and become dangerous. 

  1. When to Call a Gas Emergency Plumber in Brisbane

Not all gas issues require calling the fire department—but they all need a licensed gas fitter or gas emergency plumber. 

When to Call Immediately: 

  • You smell gas inside or outside your property 
  • You hear a hissing sound near gas appliances or pipelines 
  • You or others are experiencing dizziness, nausea, headaches 
  • Your gas appliances are malfunctioning or the pilot light won’t stay lit 
  • You can’t identify where the smell is coming from 

A professional will perform a thorough diagnostic and gas leak detection, repair or replace faulty components, and issue a Gas Compliance Certificate to confirm the repair meets Queensland safety standards. 

  1. Preventing a Future Gas Leak in Brisbane Homes or Businesses

Once the emergency is over, prevention becomes your next priority. Regular maintenance and proper care are essential to ensure your gas systems stay safe and efficient. 

Schedule Regular Gas Safety Checks 

Routine inspections help catch early signs of corrosion, wear, or appliance malfunctions. We recommend an annual check-up—especially for older systems or rental properties. 

Upgrade Old Appliances or Pipework 

Outdated fittings and appliances are a common cause of gas leaks. Replacing aging systems with modern, energy-efficient options improves safety and reduces utility costs. 

Use Licensed Professionals Only 

Whether it’s a full installation or a minor repair, always use a licensed plumber or gas fitter. DIY fixes or unqualified tradespeople are a recipe for danger. 

At Love’s Plumbing and Gas, we provide professional services for gas leak detection, emergency repairs, and compliance checks across Brisbane. 

  1. Final Thoughts & Contact Info

A gas leak in Brisbane isn’t something to take lightly. Knowing what to do—and what not to do—before the professionals arrive can prevent serious harm. The steps you take in the first few minutes can make all difference. 

Remember: 

  • Shut off the gas 
  • Ventilate the space 
  • Evacuate if necessary 
  • Call a qualified gas emergency plumber

If you’re ever in doubt, it’s better to be safe and get it checked. 

Need Help with a Gas Leak in Brisbane? 

Call Love’s Plumbing and Gas, we’re on call for urgent gas emergencies and same-day service across Brisbane. Whether it’s a suspected leak, a faulty appliance, or a complete gas line issue, our licensed team is here to help—fast, safely, and professionally. 

 

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