Setting up gas

Gas in Israel comes in two forms, and which you have depends on your building. TYPES OF GAS • Piped natural gas: Available in some neighborhoods and newer buildings. You get a meter and a bill. • Gas cylinders (ballonet): Common in older apartments. A cylinder is delivered to your home and connected to your stove. STEPS • Ask the landlord which system you have. • For piped gas, contact the gas provider to transfer the account into your name. • For cylinders, call a local supplier. They deliver, install, and swap empty cylinders for full ones. TIPS • Keep the supplier's phone number on your fridge. • Order a new cylinder before the old one runs out. • Ask how much a refill costs, and whether the deposit on the cylinder is included. SAFETY • If you smell gas, do not turn on lights or electronics. Open the windows, leave the apartment, and call the fire department at 102. • Ask your landlord to show you the shutoff valve. • Check that gas appliances were installed and inspected by a licensed technician.