Attention, homeowners: How to avoid dangerous gas shutdowns!

Attention, homeowners: How to avoid dangerous gas shutdowns!

More and more homeowners in Germany are deciding to shut down their gas heating systems. This measure often occurs as part of a switch to more environmentally friendly alternatives such as heat pumps or district heating. But caution is advised: Improper shutdowns are becoming increasingly common, which can have not only legal but also dangerous consequences. In Saarland in particular, there have already been several worrying incidents in which gas pipes were not properly secured after old heating systems were removed. [Chip] reports that open gas pipes lead to serious risks, such as explosions, which almost became a reality in Kleinblittersdorf.

These critical situations often arise because homeowners resort to seemingly cheap complete offers from the Internet without consulting the responsible network operators or chimney sweeps. Commissioning providers who are not sufficiently qualified poses significant risks, as the professional decommissioning or dismantling of gas installations is crucial for the safety of residents. A survey by the North Rhine-Westphalia Consumer Center made it clear that the costs of decommissioning gas heating systems in Germany fluctuate greatly. On average, prices are around 930 euros for decommissioning and around 1,750 euros for dismantling. In individual cases, the costs can even rise to up to 6,000 euros.

The risks of improper shutdowns

The KEW warns urgently about the dangers that can result from improper decommissioning. During routine work, serious deficiencies were identified, such as gas pipes not being properly closed, posing a significant risk of explosion. [KEW] adds that responsibility for the safe condition of the gas system usually lies with the owner, as long as it does not involve the main shut-off device, meter or gas pressure regulator. However, open pipe ends must be closed professionally to avoid life-threatening situations.

Failure to comply with the regulations can not only lead to dangerous situations, but can also result in criminal penalties. There is also a risk of losing insurance coverage. The KEW recommends that decommissioning operations be carried out exclusively by specialist companies registered with VEWSaar and that the installer is registered in the official directory before placing the order. If you have any questions or uncertainties, homeowners can contact KEW at any time. Support and advice on dismantling gas installations is also offered there.

Legal framework and recommendations

The legal framework for decommissioning gas pipeline systems requires that they be brought into a safe condition when they are no longer needed. This can be the case, for example, when changing the energy source or permanently dismantling a building. In these cases, clearly defined steps are required, which are set out in the TRGI specifications (DVGW G 600). [SBZ Online] emphasizes that all work on gas pipes and equipment may only be carried out by a registered contract installation company (VIU). The rooms must also be well ventilated during work, and open pipe ends must be secured with plugs or caps.

It is essential to inform the gas network operator in good time about the closure or termination of the gas connection. Gas meters and possibly gas pressure regulators are usually dismantled by the network operator or measuring point operator. Incidentally, closed shut-off devices are not considered tight closures, which is why there is always a risk if restoration work is inadequate.

Overall, it is clear that when gas heating systems are decommissioned, the safety of residents is the top priority. If you follow the right steps and rely on qualified specialist companies, you can avoid risky situations and at the same time take the step towards a more sustainable heating system.