Warning to South Africans using gas in their home

Many South Africans are unknowingly purchasing illegally refilled gas cylinders, which can severely compromise their safety, property, and insurance coverage.

With the winter months driving increased energy costs and colder temperatures, Eesigas’ Jeremie Tromp explained that many South Africans are relying on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) for heating and cooking.

LPG offers many benefits and is a cleaner and safer energy source when used correctly. However, discounted cylinder refills that seem too good to be true may pose serious risks to your property, health, and financial security.

“The hazard lies not in the gas itself, but in how cylinders are being refilled,” Tromp said. “Legal requirements mandate that gas cylinders be filled exclusively by trained, certified professionals adhering to strict safety protocols.”

“However, illegal operators disregard these standards, cutting corners and tampering with contents to offer cylinder refills at reduced prices.”

Tromp stressed that illegal operators engage in unsafe practices, which create critical risks for users.

“Overfilled cylinders increase pressure to dangerous levels, making them unstable. Even minor impacts, temperature changes, or mishandling can lead to leaks or potentially catastrophic failures,” he said.

Contaminated gas is another serious hazard. Illegal operators often add water, paraffin, or other substances to increase cylinder weight.

“These mixtures burn inefficiently, damage appliances, and compromise seals, creating hidden leaks that endanger homes and occupants,” he said.

Cylinders may also be underfilled to appear like a better deal but contain less gas than advertised. This forces consumers to refill more frequently and spend more overall.

“Contaminated fuel can destroy a R3,000 gas stove, while hidden leaks can trigger fires,” Tromp warned. “Insurance companies may likely repudiate claims when investigations reveal the use of illegally refilled cylinders.”

“Families have lost their homes entirely. The question isn’t whether this could happen to you – it’s whether you’re prepared to risk everything you own.”

A widespread risk

According to Tromp, the risks extend beyond individual homes to entire communities. Illegal operators transport numerous improperly secured cylinders on vehicles without adequate safety measures.

“A pothole or sudden turn could damage a valve, creating a mobile hazard on public roads,” Tromp explained.

“These operators also store hundreds of cylinders in cramped garages or makeshift workshops. One accident could devastate an entire neighbourhood.”

Additionally, illegal operators avoid paying taxes, depriving the country of millions in revenue that could support essential infrastructure like roads, hospitals, and schools.

Tromp advised consumers to look out for the following red flags:

• Prices are significantly below market rates
• No receipts, documentation, or certification proof
• Seals that don’t match the cylinder brand
• Blank or generic neck rings – legitimate cylinders display company name, weight, serial number, and country of origin
• Multiple brands delivered from the same vehicle

“If something appears questionable, it likely is,” Tomp explained. When consumers suspect that their gas cylinder may have been illegally refilled, there are some important measures they should take.

First, Tromp stressed that they should not ignite the gas or handle the cylinder roughly, as it may be unstable.

They should also contact a licensed gas supplier to safely remove and replace the cylinder or return it to the point of purchase. It is also important to report the seller to your local municipality or the LP Gas Safety Association.

Finally, Tromp said they should alert their community through appropriate channels to help prevent others from falling victim to the same risks.

“LPG offers many benefits, from cost savings to sustainability, but when family safety is at stake, shortcuts can prove far more costly than any initial savings,” Tromp said.

“Choose licensed suppliers and pay fair market prices. When protecting those you care about, the only acceptable option is the legitimate one.”