It’s almost Barbecue season again in Australia. So, it’s about time you dust off the ol’ BBQ stove to make some fresh grub in your backyard!
But when using your BBQ stove or gas cooktop for the first time in a long while, the chances of a faulty component causing natural gas leaks are always there. Detecting gas leaks quickly and efficiently is imperative to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning and other hazards. The soapy water test is effective if you don’t have gas leak detection devices or a carbon monoxide detector.
Here’s a detailed guide to detecting leaks in your gas cylinder or BBQ stove components using soapy water. The test requires several steps to detect a gas leak in your gas lines, so let’s get started before you smell gas.
Using Soapy Water For Gas Leak Test
You can prepare soapy water by mixing dish soap with water. The solution can then be stored in a spray bottle or manually spread it using a sponge. While laundry detergent will also come in handy, it won’t produce as much lather, meaning detecting leaks may take longer.
This test aims to cover the hose assembly from the cylinder valve to the stove with soapy water and pressurise the system. Soap bubbles or the smell of rotten eggs are telltale signs of gas leakage, so you should watch out for them.
Steps To Check For Gas Leaks In Your Gas Cylinder Components
You can perform the soapy water test on different components of your gas cylinder to detect leaks. One of the most common causes of gas leaks is poor connections, which a professional gas fitter can fix easily. Tightening or sealing these areas usually improves the problem. Still, if this doesn’t, you may be looking at a build-up of dirt or damage to the connectors.
On that note, here’s how to check for natural gas leaks in your gas cylinder components using the soapy water test.
1. Gas Regulator Connector
The main connector of the gas regulator has a rubber ring to maintain a contact seal. Examine the connector for physical damage or dirt, after which you can reconnect it and perform the soapy water test.
If you see visible damage on the main connector, consider replacing it entirely.
2. Gas Hose
The gas hose connects the regulator to the gas stove, and damage or deterioration due to long-term use can create leaks. You may already see cracks on its surface if it is a few years old.
While you can perform the soapy water test for properly inspecting leaks, replacing the hose is generally advised once you see visible damage.
3. Valve Stem
If your BBQ gas cylinder is older than ten years, the law in the country requires you to have it tested for damage. Any signs of damage to the gas bottle’s stem may point towards the valve failing and leaking around the stem.
It can be challenging to check the valve stem for leaks if the damage isn’t immediately noticeable, making the soapy water test crucial in finding leaks.
What To Remember When Performing The Soapy Water Test
1. Do Not Use Soap With Ammonia
Brass makes most BBQ valves and fittings, which can become damaged upon contact with ammonia. Prolonged exposure to ammonia can cause it to crack, exacerbating the problem.
So, you should examine the chemical composition of your dish soap and ensure that it has no ammonia.
2. Clean Up After The Test
Remember to clean the soapy water off your BBQ kit with a damp cloth and dry it afterwards with a towel. This eliminates the chances of damage to your gas bottle components and ensures a long life for your kit.
3. Know When To Test
If you don’t use the BBQ kit frequently, we’d strongly recommend performing the soapy water test each time you reconnect the regulator to the gas cylinder. This is especially important if you haven’t used it in years.
Dish Soap Can Save Your Life!
Barbecue gas fires are among the most common reasons for Australian house gas fires, which makes performing the soapy water test extremely important. Performing the steps above may help you avert a catastrophic house fire caused by a gas leak. And the best part is that you will immediately see the results without investing much time or money!
However, if you detect a natural gas leak, it’s important to let professionals handle the problem, provide you with gas leak detection services, and prevent gas leaks. DIY fixes may not eliminate the risk of leaks, and you probably don’t have the right tools like a natural gas leak detector, so you should contact the best gas plumbers near you. We can also install your gas meter, gas heater, gas appliances and gas line connection. Call us today for Sydney gas fitters that provide prompt, 24/7 service on gas leak repairs, burst gas hot water heaters, leaking gas pipes, faulty gas appliance, and other gas plumbing needs!
We will see you next time with more informative reads. Till then, goodbye!
