Connecting gas appliances
The installation of gas appliances, in any circumstances, must be undertaken by a registered gasfitter only.
Gas pipes will be connected to the gas meter and then installed around to the position of the gas appliances. The gasfitter will install the gas pipes from the gas meter to the various points around the property as required and then install and commission the appliances. A gasfitter is legally bound to ensure that all gas appliance installations are legal.
Residential and small-medium commercial gas appliance installations
Standard practice is to have a main feed of copper pipe 20mm in diameter installed from the gas meter to the position of the gas appliance that will use the most gas, most often a water heating appliance. In some circumstances 32mm copper pipe may be utilised if the appliance requires a large gas input, such as pool heaters.
From the main gas feed, subsidiary gas pipes, usually in 15mm or 10mm copper, are installed to other gas appliances.
Ideally gas pipework should be run to the appliance positions when the framework for the building is up. This enables the pipe to be hidden within the walls of the building, before gib board is attached.
When additional appliances are being installed in an existing building or in an extension to an existing building, the pipework can be run underneath the floor, providing there is enough access for a gasfitter to operate safely. Alternatively, pipework can be run through ceiling space and drop down to appliance positions via storage cupboards. If neither of these options is available or is only partially available, pipework can be run discreetly around the exterior of the building, with feeds taken through the walls to the position of the gas appliances.
Large commercial/industrial gas appliance installations
Due to the custom designed and specialised applications of gas within commercial and industrial settings, the installation and pipework is often specialised as well. Pipe sizing and materials will differ depending on the application, with steel pipe of much larger dimensions often utilised.
To discuss your specific requirements, please contact info@vector.co.nz
Existing gas appliances
A registered gasfitter must be used to relocate or remove any gas appliances at existing Gas connections. The gas supply may need to be temporarily disconnected and the gas fitter will advise if this is necessary. The energy retailer will then arrange a temporary (transitional) disconnection. See below.
Temporary/transitional disconnections
An energy retailer must be contacted to arrange a temporary disconnection of a gas meter and will arrange all the necessary parties to complete the works.