What is the difference between Type A and B gas appliances?
Gas is used at home and in the workplace every day, but have you ever thought about what are is difference between Type A and B gas appliances? It is important to be aware of the technical and functional differences between different gas appliances and to also understand that all gas fitters must be licensed in both gas fields to be eligible to work on each type of gas appliance.
For example, holders of a Gas Work license can only work on Type A gas appliances, however they cannot work on Type B gas appliances unless they have a Gas Work Authorisation. Type B Gas requires different training and authorisations held on behalf of an associated Company or gas fitter. The differences can be seen through the appliance types and also how they are maintained and commissioned.
Type A Gas Appliances
Type A gas appliances consist of domestic and light commercial appliances, which are mass-produced. They are defined in AS/NZS 5601 as an appliance for which a certification scheme exists. These appliances are usually found within homes and commercial sites. Most gas fitters will have completed a Certificate III in Gas Fitting to obtain this licence.
Some examples of Type A Gas appliances include:
- Gas stove tops
- Barbecues and grills connected to gas cylinders
- Hot water systems
- Cook tops Domestic/Commercial
- Ranges Domestic/Commercial
- Woks
- Griddle tops and fryers
- Domestic gas dryers
- Pizza Ovens
- Gas refrigerators
- Ducted heating appliances Gas
Type B Appliances
- Industrial boilers
- Incinerators
- Gas fired turbine
- Engine powered appliances used in power generation
The differences are evident through appliance types and the environment in which they are used. In some circumstances, if a type A appliance is used in an industrial and commercial application (for which it was not intended) is then considered to be a type B appliance. However this is an exception.
Always ensure you are aware of if your appliance is a Type A or Type B appliance and review your gas fitters licence prior to commencing work to ensure they are licensed and able to work on the gas appliance present.