Have you ever wondered how your neighbour’s kitchen is never smoky while yours is smoke-filled every time you cook a meal? The difference could be in your method of cooking. Cooking with traditional methods not only leaves you with a smoky kitchen but can also affect your health and safety.
Switching to clean cooking gas can improve your cooking experience. With clean cooking gas, you’ll enjoy a healthier and easier way to prepare your meals.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through six practical steps to safely switch to clean cooking gas. Whether you’re cooking for a large family or running a catering business, these steps will help you make a smooth, safe transition to a clean cooking gas.
1. Evaluate Your Cooking Needs and Space
Before rushing to buy a gas cylinder, take a close look at your kitchen and cooking habits. Measure your available space and consider how much cooking you do daily. This will assist you in getting the correct size of the gas cylinder as well as the correct-sized stove. For a small family in an apartment, a single-burner stove and a 3kg cylinder might suffice. Larger households or those who cook frequently might need a double-burner stove and a 12.5kg cylinder.
2. Choose the Right Gas Type and Equipment
In Nigeria, Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) is the most common clean cooking gas. To get started, you’ll need to purchase a gas cylinder, regulator, and hose pipe. When shopping for these items, prioritize quality and safety. Visit a gas dealer or home appliance store to ensure you’re getting quality equipment. Avoid purchasing from unofficial sources or street vendors, as they may sell substandard or unsafe products.
3. Set Up Your Gas System Safely
Proper installation is crucial for safety. Place your gas cylinder in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Connect the regulator to the cylinder and the hose to your stove, ensuring all connections are tight. If you’re unsure, hire a professional technician recommended by your gas supplier to do the installation.
4. Learn Essential Safety Practices
Before lighting up your new stove, familiarize yourself with gas safety. Always turn off the cylinder valve when not in use. Check for leaks regularly by applying soapy water to connections, bubbles indicate a leak. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and ensure your kitchen is well-ventilated. Never use water to extinguish a gas fire; instead, turn off the gas supply and use a fire blanket or extinguisher.
5. Master Efficient Cooking Techniques
Maximize your gas usage by adopting efficient cooking habits. Use pot lids to reduce cooking time and gas consumption. Match your pot size to the burner size for optimal heat distribution. Consider using a pressure cooker for dishes that typically require long cooking times, like beans or tough meats. These practices not only save gas but also reduce your cooking expenses.
6. Establish a Regular Maintenance Routine
To ensure long-term safety and efficiency, set up a maintenance schedule. Clean your stove regularly to prevent blockages. Have your cylinder, regulator, and hose checked by a professional annually. Replace your hose pipe every two years, even if it appears to be in good condition. Regular maintenance prevents leaks and ensures your system operates at peak efficiency.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the benefits of clean cooking gas. Not only will you be improving your health and saving money, but you’ll also be contributing to a cleaner environment for society.
Ready to make the switch? Contact us today for personalized guidance on transitioning to clean cooking gas safely and efficiently.
