LPG Gas Stove Installation in SA: Choosing a Certified Expert for Safety and Compliance

With load shedding as a constant reality, more and more South African homeowners are making the switch to LPG gas for cooking. It’s efficient, reliable, and offers instant heat, making it a fantastic upgrade for any kitchen. However, this convenience comes with a critical responsibility: ensuring the installation is done safely and legally.

Unlike hanging a picture frame or fixing a leaky tap, installing a gas appliance is not a DIY job or a task for a general handyman. It’s a specialised trade governed by strict national standards for a very good reason—the safety of your family and your property depends on it. This guide explains why choosing a certified expert is non-negotiable and what you, as a homeowner, must know to ensure a compliant installation.

Why You Can't Just Hire Any Plumber or Handyman

It’s tempting to call your trusted local handyman for a quick installation, but when it comes to gas, this is a dangerous mistake. LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) is highly flammable and poses significant risks if handled incorrectly. A poorly installed gas stove can lead to gas leaks, fires, explosions, or carbon monoxide poisoning.

To mitigate these risks, South African law mandates that any work on a gas system must be performed by a qualified and registered professional. The governing body for this is the South African Qualification & Certification Committee for Gas (SAQCC Gas). An installer must be registered with SAQCC Gas as a Gas Practitioner to legally work on your system.

One of our top-rated gas professionals recently shared a story about a call-out in a Johannesburg suburb. The homeowner had hired a general contractor to install their new gas hob. To save a few rands, the contractor ran the flexible orange hose directly through the wall behind the stove—no protective sleeving, no secure fittings. Over time, the hose's sharp bend against the brickwork caused a tiny, almost undetectable abrasion. The slow leak went unnoticed until it ignited, causing a dangerous flash fire. The repair and compliance certification ended up costing far more than a correct initial installation would have. This is a perfect example of why specific expertise is vital.

The Role of the SAQCC Gas Registered Practitioner

So, what does it mean to be a "registered practitioner"? It’s your single most important guarantee of a safe installation.

A SAQCC Gas Registered Practitioner is an individual who has proven their competence through proper training and assessment. They understand the specific properties of LPG, the correct materials to use, and the precise installation techniques required by law.

When you hire an installer, you must ask to see their registration card. Here’s what to look for:

• A valid photo ID of the practitioner.
• Their unique registration number.
• The scope of work they are licensed for. This is crucial. Their card will specify if they are qualified for "Domestic/Residential" installations. Someone licensed only for commercial kitchens or natural gas is not authorised to work on your home LPG stove.
• An expiry date. Ensure the card is current.

You can and should verify their credentials by using their registration number on the official SAQCC Gas online database. A legitimate professional will be happy to provide this information; hesitation to do so is a major red flag.

The Certificate of Conformity (CoC): Your Proof of a Safe Installation

Once the installation is complete, the registered practitioner must issue a Gas Certificate of Conformity (CoC). This document is not just a piece of paper; it’s a legal declaration that your installation complies with all safety standards.

A CoC is mandatory for:

• Any new gas installation.
• Any modification or extension of an existing gas installation.
• The sale of a property that has a gas appliance.

What does a CoC confirm?

• The work was done by a registered practitioner.
• The materials used (pipes, fittings, regulator, hoses) are SABS-approved and correct for LPG.
• The gas cylinder is correctly and safely located according to regulations (e.g., required distances from doors, windows, drains, and electrical points).
• The installation has proper ventilation to prevent the build-up of harmful gases.
• The system has been thoroughly tested for leaks and is safe to operate.

Without a valid CoC, your homeowner's insurance may refuse to pay out for any incident related to the gas installation, be it a fire or an explosion. The CoC is your ultimate protection, providing both peace of mind and legal and financial security.

What a Certified Gas Installation Involves: A Step-by-Step Overview

A professional installation is a meticulous process. While every kitchen is different, a certified practitioner will follow these fundamental steps:

1. Site Assessment: The expert will first inspect your kitchen to determine the best placement for the stove. They will assess ventilation and plan the safest route for the pipework from the outside cylinder to the appliance.
2. Cylinder Placement: The gas cylinder must be placed outdoors. According to the South African National Standard (SANS 10087-1), cylinders must be a specific distance from potential ignition sources. For example, a 9kg cylinder must be at least 1 metre away from doors and windows, 2 metres from open drains, and 5 metres from an electrical switch or motor. It must also sit on a firm, level surface and cannot be stored in a garage or basement.
3. Pipework Installation: The practitioner will use approved materials, typically copper piping, for the main run. If a pipe passes through a wall, it must be protected by a sleeve to prevent damage. Flexible hoses are only used for the final connection to the appliance itself and must be accessible for inspection.
4. Connection and Regulation: A regulator, which controls the pressure of the gas flowing from the cylinder, is fitted. All connections are tightened securely to create a perfect seal.
5. Leak Testing: This is a critical safety check. The installer will use a manometer to pressure-test the entire system to ensure it is airtight. They will also use a soapy water solution on every joint and connection; any bubbling indicates a leak that must be fixed immediately.
6. Commissioning: The practitioner will turn on the gas, light the stove, and check that all burners are functioning correctly and producing a clean, blue flame. They will also show you how to operate the stove and shut off the gas supply in an emergency.
7. Issuing the CoC: Once everything is tested and confirmed to be 100% safe and compliant, the practitioner will fill out the Certificate of Conformity, sign it, and provide you with your copy.

Red Flags to Watch Out For When Choosing an Installer

To protect yourself from unqualified and unsafe installers, keep an eye out for these warning signs:

• No SAQCC Gas Card: They are vague about their registration or refuse to show you their card.
• A "Too Good to Be True" Quote: An unusually low price often means they are using substandard materials or skipping critical safety checks like the pressure test.
• Suggesting an Indoor Cylinder: They tell you it’s okay to keep the gas cylinder in the kitchen cupboard "for convenience." This is illegal and extremely dangerous.
• Dismissing the CoC: They claim a CoC isn't necessary for a simple hob installation or offer to "email it later" without completing the full checks.
• Using Incorrect Materials: You see them attempting to use materials like garden hoses, unapproved plastic piping, or incorrect fittings.

Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, it probably is. It’s always better to pay a little more for a certified professional than to risk the safety of your home and family.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How far does my gas bottle (cylinder) need to be from my stove?

Your gas cylinder must always be located outdoors. It cannot be in the same room as the stove. The pipework installed by a certified practitioner will safely connect the outdoor cylinder to your indoor appliance, adhering to strict distance and safety regulations outlined in SANS 10087-1 to prevent any fire or explosion risks.

Can I install a gas stove in a flat or apartment?

Yes, you can, but there are specific rules. If your flat is not on the ground floor, you are generally limited to a gas cylinder size of 9kg. The cylinder must still be located outdoors (e.g., on a balcony). It cannot be in a hallway or passageway. Some Body Corporates have their own bylaws regarding gas installations, so you must check with them before proceeding. A certified installer will be able to advise on the specific requirements for your situation.

What happens if I lose my Gas Certificate of Conformity (CoC)?

The registered practitioner who performed the installation is required to keep a copy of the CoC for their records. You should contact them to request a duplicate. If you cannot reach the original installer, another registered practitioner will need to perform a full inspection of your installation. If it is compliant, they can then issue a new CoC, though this will incur a fee for the inspection.

Does my gas installation need to be serviced regularly?

Yes. It is highly recommended to have your gas installation inspected and serviced by a registered practitioner at least every 12 to 24 months, or as recommended by the appliance manufacturer. They will check for degradation in flexible hoses, ensure the regulator is working correctly, and perform a leak test to ensure continued safety and efficiency. Regular maintenance can prevent potential hazards from developing over time.