Almost every home in the UK has at least one gas appliance, ranging from boilers to cookers. Whilst they’re convenient, if they’re not correctly maintained, they can be a silent threat in your home.
What makes poorly maintained gas appliances dangerous isn’t always visible - it could be just a small leak, a blocked flue or a worn valve but all of these are extremely dangerous if left undetected and could put you and your family at risk.
Let’s take a look at what you can do to stay safe in your home.
A 2022 investigation by the Gas Safe Register revealed that 1 in 6 UK homes, that’s over 4.3 million, were using unsafe gas appliances. This was mainly due to improper installation, poor maintenance, or ageing appliances.
Over 10,000 A&E visits in the UK over the past decade were linked to gas related incidents such as fires, leaks or explosions
Around two thirds of unauthorised gas work is classed as either ‘at risk’ or ‘immediately dangerous’ according to the investigation
Faulty gas appliances can leak gases into the air without you even knowing they’re there.
Colourless, odourless, and tasteless and often referred to as ‘the silent killer’.
Symptoms of exposure include; headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion and in some cases, death
Commonly caused by incomplete combustion or blocked flues
A study by Public Health England showed that CO2 exposure remains a persistent problem in UK homes and caused around 50 deaths and 4,000 medical visits per year.
Known for irritating the lungs and exacerbating asthma
Long term exposure can impair lung development in children and increase respiratory infections
Gas hobs and heaters without adequate ventilation are typical culprits
Linked to leukaemia and other cancers, even at low exposure levels
These substances often accumulate slowly over time in older, poorly ventilated homes
Whilst the impacts on health build slowly over time, the immediate dangers of unsafe gas appliances can be catastrophic.
Natural gas is mostly methane – a highly flammable greenhouse gas
Studies have shown that some appliances continue to leak methane, even when turned off
A small spark combined with leaking gas can lead to a devastating explosion
Though utility companies add an odour to gas (mercaptan) to make it more detectable, slow leaks can often go undetected, especially in basements or behind appliances
Poor air circulation combined with faulty appliances can make your home more polluted than outdoor urban environments.
Methane is over 80 times more potent than CO2 in trapping heat over a 20 year span.
Leaking gas appliances contribute directly to global warming
In cities, such as London or Manchester, cumulative emissions from homes add to urban smog - worsening air quality, especially during winter
Some people are more vulnerable to the effects of gas related pollutants due to their circumstances.
| Group | Why They’re More Vulnerable |
|---|---|
| Children | Breathe more per body weight; developing lungs |
| Older Adults | Weakened heart/lung function, immune decline |
| Pregnant People | Fetal development can be affected by toxins |
| Chronic Conditions | Asthma, COPD, or cardiovascular issues |
| Low-Income Families | Older appliances, poor ventilation, reduced access to repairs |
Recent research suggests that chronic exposure to gas-related pollutants causes major cognitive decline in older adults, and also delays in children's development due to disruption in oxygen intake and inflammation.
Hire a Gas Safe registered engineer. Ask to see their ID to confirm they are registered.
Use extractor fans or keep window ajar when using stoves or heaters to keep air flowing.
Fit them near to bedrooms and appliances and ensure they are tested every 6-12 months.
Newer appliances have improved safety mechanisms and lower emissions so upgrade wherever you can.
Induction hobs, electric boilers and heat pumps are safer, greener alternatives,
There needs to be more awareness of the silent dangers of poorly maintained gas appliances.
Routine home inspections and maintenance checks by qualified engineers.
Gas appliances may be out of sight, but they should never be out of mind. A few proactive steps can protect your family, your home, and the planet.
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