Pre-Winter Commercial Kitchen Gas Safety Checklist
Winter is when commercial kitchens work hardest. Heaters come on, ovens run longer, and gas equipment gets pushed to its limits. Here’s what to check before the cold hits.
The Checklist
- Check all pilot lights — make sure every gas appliance lights reliably. A pilot that takes multiple attempts is telling you the thermocouple or igniter needs replacing.
- Look for yellow or orange flames — healthy gas flames are blue. Yellow or orange means incomplete combustion, which can produce carbon monoxide.
- Smell test — walk through the kitchen with everything off. If you smell gas, you have a leak. Don’t ignore it.
- Check burner ports — blocked ports cause uneven flames. Clean them or have them serviced.
- Test thermostats — set each oven/fryer to a specific temperature and check with an independent thermometer. If it’s off by more than 10°C, the thermostat needs calibrating or replacing.
- Inspect gas hoses — look for cracks, kinks, or wear on flexible gas connections. Replace any that look damaged.
- Check ventilation — make sure exhaust hoods are pulling properly. Poor ventilation + gas appliances = carbon monoxide risk.
- Review your compliance — when was your last Certificate of Compliance? If it’s been more than 12 months, book a service.
When to Call a Gas Fitter
Any of these are a same-day call:
- Gas smell
- Yellow flames on any appliance
- Appliance that won’t stay lit
- Appliance making unusual noises
- Any safety concern
Book a pre-winter gas safety inspection: call 0410 016 126 or book online.
