This section attempts to answer any questions you may have about getting connected to natural gas. If your question isn’t answered here, simply give us a call on 08454 55 55 55* and we’d be happy to help.
Q: Will there be much disruption inside or outside my home?
A: As with any major home improvement there will be an element of disruption, although both Phoenix Natural Gas and Gas Safe Registered installation companies (registered with Phoenix Natural Gas) will aim to keep this to an absolute minimum. Internal disruption varies depending upon the central heating system you are changing from – for example, Economy 7 conversions require all radiators to be removed and replaced with new natural gas radiators, resulting in more internal works than with other central heating types. External disruption has been reduced as a result of ‘Directional Drilling’ techniques, which allow the insertion of a mole to excavate the required distance underground, eliminating the need to dig up the surface.
Q: Is it really safe to use?
A: Natural gas is the fuel of choice for many consumers across Europe with 20 million customers in Great Britain alone. It is as safe as any other fuel as long as it is used correctly. Phoenix Natural Gas continually monitors the system for safety and operates a 24-hour emergency response service, 365 days a year. All gas appliances should be correctly installed by a Gas Safe registered installation company and should be checked annually.
Q: Will it be cheaper to run?
A: With natural gas you can be sure your heating, hot water and cooking costs will be economical, as well as giving you all the comfort, convenience and versatility you could ever need.
Q: How long will the installation process take?
A: Once you have had an Energy Audit with one of our Energy Advisors and signed a Gas Meter Request Form and a Gas Supply Agreement Form, we will help you to find a suitable Gas Safe registered installation company (registered with Phoenix Natural Gas). Once you have chosen the installer and agreed a price, a meter installation date is requested. A natural gas meter is installed free of charge in approximately 3 working days, followed by re-instatement of your property following any external works, which takes a further 5 working days. The final stage is the internal installation by the installer which (depending upon the work involved) can take on average 3 working days.
Q: Do I need planning permission to install natural gas?
A: Yes. As for all types of installation work involving any fuel, planning permission must be granted prior to work commencing. You can contact local Building Control to establish if a Building Warrant is required.
Q: I already have bottled gas installed for cooking and a gas fire. Can I use the same appliances with natural gas?
A: In most cases, yes. Conversion kits exist to make it possible to use existing bottled gas appliances when converting to natural gas, particularly for fires and hobs. A Gas Safe registered installation company (registered with Phoenix Natural Gas) will be able to confirm the availability of conversion kits for your appliances before carrying out any work.
Q: Are the installers employed by Phoenix Natural Gas?
A: No. All installers who are eligible to carry out natural gas work, have been registered with Gas Safe Register, which is the national watchdog for gas safety in the UK. You can choose any Gas Safe registered installation company to complete your natural gas installation, although many of these installers will also be registered with Phoenix Natural Gas, which ensures that you can take advantage of our many offers and incentives for new customers switching to natural gas. For a full list of Gas Safe registered installers simply give us a call on 08454 55 55 55 or click here.
Q: Can I pay monthly?
A: Yes. The Direct Payment Plan is an easy and convenient way to pay your gas bills. Paying monthly by direct debit, you spread the cost evenly throughout the year, the exact amount being agreed at the outset according to your predicted gas usage. Regular reviews are carried out to ensure you are paying the correct amount and as it is the most efficient way for us to collect payment, the savings are passed right back to the customer.
Q: Do I have to remove my hot water tank?
A: Installing natural gas central heating does eliminate the need for a separate hot water tank, so it is possible to free up some space where the hot press currently exists. However, it is not a requirement of installing natural gas central heating that your hot water tank is removed, so it is entirely your choice.
Q: Is the gas supply going to last forever?
A: As a major energy provider, we have a responsibility to ensure that natural gas is used efficiently and without unnecessary wastage, ensuring the maximum lifespan of this natural resource. Through our sustained commitment to development and customer care, we provide information on how gas can be used as efficiently as possible and predict that your grandchildren’s grandchildren will continue to enjoy the benefits of natural gas.
Q: Is it cheaper to change everything at once or can I have a natural gas fire and keep my existing central heating?
A: There would be more energy saving benefits to change everything at once, but we realise that family budgets may prevent this. It is possible to change over in stages, as financial considerations allow.
Q: How much room do I need to install a shower unit?
A: The standard size for a shower tray is 800mm by 800mm and we would therefore recommend an area of at least this size to install a shower unit. The final size of the unit, however, will be determined by the customer’s preference, the overall space available and the size of shower tray selected.
Why not call us today on 08454 55 55 55 to discuss the advantages of switching to natural gas? Our Energy Advisors will arrange for you to get connected as soon as possible so you and your family can start to take advantage of the many benefits of natural gas.