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Ministry of Economic Development

Gas appliances in garages



Published: 10.03.2009

Energy Safety (ES) would like to remind gasfitters that NZS 5261 gives specific requirements for installation of gas appliances in garages.

Gas appliances in garages can provide a source of ignition for flammable substances, as shown by two separate incidents at the same residential address last year. In each case solvent-based product, used in a carpet laying operation, was ignited by the pilot of a domestic water heater in the garage. Both incidents caused damage to the contents of the garage and the second incident caused serious burns to the hands and arms of the worker involved.

The installation does not appear to have complied with NZS 5261. NZS 5261 requires gas appliances that are not room sealed (from the garage) to be installed either with all burners and combustion air intakes at least 450mm off the floor, or with a surrounding vapour-proof wall at least 450mm high. In addition, there has to be a notice warning against allowing flammable vapours within 3 metres of such appliances.

Refer to clause 2.6.3.10 of NZS 5261 for specific requirements for gas appliances in garages.

For more information about safety of gas and electricity, go to www.energysafety.govt.nz.