Replace expired gas hoses and appliances, leave pipework to professionals, and decline compulsory sales pitches
A compliant hose costs only a few dozen renminbi. China's Regulations on the Administration of Urban Gas require users to replace expired equipment and prohibit unauthorized changes to pipework or removal of gas meters. The same regulations say a gas supplier cannot force you to buy its chosen products or services. You can refuse a door-to-door sales pitch claiming that you “must replace” something through that seller.
What it takes
A compliant gas hose costs a few dozen renminbi in China. Replace the cooker every few years as required, checking the service-life marking when replacing parts.
What you may gain
The Chinese regulations require users to replace gas-burning appliances and connecting hoses when their prescribed service life ends or the state orders that type withdrawn. They prohibit unauthorized installation, modification or removal of indoor gas facilities and metering devices, including DIY pipe changes and meter removal. They also prohibit gas suppliers from requiring customers to purchase designated products or accept the supplier's services.
Context & considerations
Some visitors present themselves as safety inspectors, then sell shutoff valves and alarms. Article 20(6) means a gas company cannot compel you to buy its designated products; you may refuse and complain. Verification pending in the source: the standard response to a gas smell, including opening windows, closing valves, avoiding electrical switches and calling from outside; the author did not obtain an official original that could be checked word for word. Carbon monoxide poisoning is a separate issue; see Chapter 13.
Research & references
State Council of China (2010). Regulations on the Administration of Urban Gas, State Council Order No. 583. Article 27 requires safe gas use, compliant appliances and cylinders, and timely replacement of withdrawn or expired appliances and hoses. Article 28 prohibits, among other things, unauthorized operation of public gas valves (item 1), using gas pipes as load-bearing supports or grounding wires (item 2), and unauthorized installation, modification or removal of indoor gas facilities and meters (item 4). Article 20(6) prohibits compulsory purchase of designated products or services. Article 29 allows complaints about charges and services to gas-management and other relevant authorities, which must handle them within 15 working days of receipt. http://www.gov.cn/gongbao/content/2010/content_1758214.htm