Gas Appliance Rectification program moves into phase two

The WA Gas Appliance Rectification program moves to the next phase today with the rollout of replacement and servicing of appliances considered at risk.

Commerce Minister Simon O'Brien said more than 24,000 homes in WA had been visited to date as part of the program to identify defective gas appliances.

"The visits have resulted in approximately 22,000 pre-1980 domestic gas appliances being identified, of which up around 10,000 will be replaced and a further 6,000 will be serviced.  The rest are safe to be used in their existing condition," Mr O'Brien said.

"If anyone's appliances qualify for a replacement or servicing, they will be contacted between May 2011 and the end of 2012 to arrange the installation and/or service of the appliance."

The Gas Appliance Rectification program was developed in anticipation of the new gas specification being introduced to WA in 2013, which will see domestic gas consumers benefit as it will allow more gas producers access to the market, increasing competition and security of supply.

The Minister said as it was a significant length of time for phase two, EnergySafety had a comprehensive communication plan in place to keep all consumers aware of its current status. This plan included letters, newspaper advertisements and flyers sent with gas accounts.

"The replacement and servicing of the identified appliances will be targeted by zones (suburbs or groups of suburbs). Registered consumers will be contacted by letter advising them that the replacement and servicing of the pre-1980 appliances considered at risk will begin in their area soon and advise they will be contacted to arrange a suitable time to carry out the required work," he said.

"The targeted zones will also be listed on the EnergySafety website http://www.energysafety.wa.gov.au and will be periodically advertised in community newspapers."

After the program has finished, the cost of inspection, servicing or replacement of the appliances will be the responsibility of the consumer.

People who have not yet registered their details for a free safety check, should contact the call centre on 1800 110 464 or complete the online form at http://www.gasapplianceprogram.com.au