Gas engineers help millions of people stay safe and warm across the country. Are you interested in joining this industry? Good choice! Gas engineering as a career offers stability, comfortable earnings and a sense of accomplishment.
If you’re a fan of hands-on work and are a determined individual with keen attention to detail, this could be the perfect job for you. Gas engineering can provide flexible working hours and potentially the opportunity to start your own business. Keep reading to learn more about becoming a gas engineer.
What does a gas engineer do?
A gas engineer’s main focus is heating systems. They’ll be responsible for installing and maintaining gas systems, pipework, fittings and fixtures. These elements all work together to keep buildings warm. Gas engineers can work on both residential and commercial properties, depending on their training. As well as ensuring heating systems are running safely, they will ensure they’re working efficiently to reduce running costs and carbon emissions.
Some typical day-to-day activities of a gas engineer include:
- Installing central heating systems such as boilers
- Carrying out maintenance on heating systems and equipment
- Running tests and utilising safety devices
- Locating gas leaks using fault-finding technology (and repairing them)
- Repairing or replacing faulty or aged parts
- Offering advice to clients regarding energy efficiency and gas safety
Becoming a gas engineer
You can become a gas engineer through an apprenticeship scheme or college course. Apprenticeships typically take around 4 years to complete, whereas a college course could have you qualified in 2-3 years.
Apprenticeships are a great option if you’re at school leavers (16-19) and want to learn a trade while earning a small wage. They’re usually fully or partially funded by the government, depending on your age. They combine practical and theoretical training to understand all aspects of the job. You’ll need to find an employer to hire you throughout your apprenticeship, which can be difficult. If you’re struggling to find an apprenticeship, you could consider a course.
At The Trades College, we offer courses to make you a fully qualified gas engineer. These are the qualifications you’ll gain by training with us:
- BPEC – Energy Efficiency (Part L)
- ACS – Core Gas Safety
- ACS – Cookers and Hobs
- ACS – Space Heaters – Fires
- ACS – Flue Gas Analysers
- ACS – Central Heating Boilers and Water Heaters
All of these qualifications are necessary for becoming a gas engineer and are certified by recognised awarding bodies. You’ll need to self-fund this training, however, you’re able to work alongside your training. With part-time options, it’s fully flexible.
The Accredited Certification Scheme
The Accredited Certification Scheme (ACS) will provide you with industry-recognised qualifications. You’ll need these ACS qualifications to be able to sign up for the Gas Safe Register. To maintain your place on the Gas Safe Register, you’ll need to keep your qualifications up to date. This could involve renewing your ACS training.
Joining the Gas Safe Register
Once you have the right qualifications, you’ll need to join the Gas Safe Register. This is an official list of individuals and businesses who are qualified to legally work safely on gas appliances in the UK, Isle of Man and Guernsey. You’ll need to prove that you have the relevant qualifications and experience to work competently with gas. If you have the right training, you’ll have no problem applying.
Find your gas engineering course
Ready to start your training? Becoming a gas engineer couldn’t be easier with The Trades College. We offer all of the relevant training for you to gain the necessary qualifications needed to become a gas engineer. Get in touch with us today to discuss your options and start your new career.
