Do you know where gas cylinders should be kept? The consumer protection organization DECO PROTeste advises that these should ideally be placed outside residences in a dedicated compartment that meets specific criteria.
“The risk of accidents decreases if you store gas cylinders outside the dwelling, in a properly identified cabinet,” explains the organization.
This storage should be made of non-combustible, well-ventilated material, with a cemented floor covered with ceramic or compacted earth.
Additionally, it should contain a sign prohibiting smoking or lighting fires.
For safety reasons, within a room, store a maximum of two gas bottles (full or empty) always in an upright position.
I have additional cylinders in the building’s garage. Is there a problem?
Yes, according to DECO PROTeste, “the storage of full or empty gas bottles in basements is prohibited” by ordinance no. 460/2001, dated May 8. However, “they can be stored in semi-buried compartments“.
What to do if you smell gas?
The consumer agency states, “If you smell gas, it is crucial to act quickly and safely to avoid explosion or fire risks by following these steps”:
- Avoid making any sparks or ignition points. Do not turn appliances or switches on or off. Avoid turning off the circuit breaker in the electric panel.
- Immediately ventilate the area, preferably by opening windows.
- Locate the source of the leak and eliminate it. It could be an open burner, a leak in the supply hose between the bottle and the equipment, or a problem with the regulator or the cylinder valve, among others.
- If you cannot stop the leak, move the cylinder outside, always in an upright position.
- In case of fire, ensure that no one is inside the house and immediately call 112. Do not attempt to fight the fire, especially if there are more cylinders in the residence, due to explosion risk.”
Natural gas or gas cylinder: Which is more cost-effective?
According to DECO PROTeste, “natural gas has a lower calorific power compared to propane and butane gas: more gas is needed to generate the same amount of energy“. However, “the advantage of natural gas is that it is always cheaper in the end,” since the “price per cubic meter is lower“.
Also, remember that “you should replace the gas cylinder’s regulator whenever it shows visible damage. In case of doubt, consult a certified technician to ensure your safety,” advises the consumer protection organization.
Notícias ao Minuto | 08:47 – 08/09/2025
