Immediate steps
- Close the main gas supply if it is safe to reach.
- Open doors and windows for natural ventilation.
- Do not operate electrical switches and do not use a flame.
- Move people away and call from outside.
Why you should not turn on the hood or light
An electrical switch can create a small spark when operated. With accumulated gas, that spark can be dangerous. Natural ventilation is the safer option until the situation is assessed.
Possible causes of gas odour
The odour may result from a burner failing to light while gas flows, a valve that does not close, a connector needing inspection or flame extinguishing during use. The source cannot be identified by smell alone and must never be tested with a flame.
What a technician checks
Valves, connections, ignition, safety devices and flame stability are inspected using appropriate leak-detection methods. After repair, closure, operation and ventilation are tested before use resumes.
When not to restart
Do not restart if odour remains, a control cannot close, ignition repeatedly fails or flame goes out without a clear reason. Call 17413 from a safe place with the appliance type and model.
Why gas odour is more dangerous in an enclosed space
Gas can accumulate when the kitchen is closed or poorly ventilated. The risk is not only the odour itself but possible ignition from a spark. Avoid every potential spark source and do not restart the appliance to see whether the problem has disappeared.
What to do after ventilation
Even if the odour disappears, that does not prove the cause is gone. Keep the gas supply closed and note when the smell appeared: before operation, while pressing a control, after a flame went out, or after shutdown. This information helps direct inspection toward the valve, ignition, connections or safety system.
How to reduce the chance of recurrence
- Do not allow gas to flow through repeated failed ignition attempts.
- Watch flame stability and avoid direct drafts that can extinguish it.
- Do not use old or unsuitable hoses and connectors.
- Never bypass the thermocouple or hold a control mechanically open.
- Request inspection when a control cannot close easily or odour returns.
Children and pets
Keep children and pets away and do not allow anyone back into the area until it is ventilated and safe. If the odour is strong or persists, leave the property and follow instructions from emergency services and the gas supplier.