Is the Gas Valve Horizontal or Vertical? Safety Guide for Students in Korea

Gas in the kitchen is a grateful presence that cooks delicious meals and warms your home, but it’s natural to feel a bit anxious if the system feels unfamiliar. Many international students struggle to remember whether that iconic 'red intermediate valve' is open or closed. Don't worry anymore. Enkostay will kindly show you smart gas management tips to make your home the most comfortable and safe place.

Quick Summary

Just remember this for gas safety! When the valve is 'horizontal,' blocking the path of the pipe, it is closed. When it is 'vertical,' aligned with the pipe, it is open. The city gas inspection every six months is a free professional visit for your safety, so feel free to cooperate without any pressure.

1. How can I tell at a glance if the gas intermediate valve is open or closed?

The easiest way is to check if the valve is 'blocking' the gas pipe.

Don't let your guard down just because you turned off the stove. To prevent even a minute Gas Leak, it’s important to develop the habit of closing the Intermediate Valve (중간 밸브, jung-gan baelbeu). If the valve handle is horizontal, crossing the pipe in a T-shape, the gas is cut off. If it is vertical, in line with the pipe, the gas is flowing. Even if you use an induction cooktop, if there's a pipe on the wall, check occasionally to see if it's horizontal!

2. How should I handle the 'City Gas Inspection Notice' on my door?

If you find a notice, don't panic and start by scheduling a visit with the inspector.

City Gas (도시가스, dosi gaseu) companies visit your home every six months for a safety check.

• Korean Communication Tip: Worried about your Korean? Just send a simple text to the number on the notice: "Hello, I am a resident at [Address]. I’d like to schedule a gas inspection. Would Saturday at 2PM be possible for you?"

• Safety Verification: Inspectors wear uniforms and carry ID cards. Regular inspections are completely free, so never open the door to anyone asking for cash or repair fees.

• What do they do?: They use specialized equipment to check for leaks for about 3 minutes, so please spare a moment.

3. How do I check for a gas leak when I smell something unusual?

If a distinct gas smell persists around the stove, applying soapy water to the pipe connections is the most reliable way to check.

• Self-Diagnosis: Mix dish soap and water in a Spray Bottle (분무기, bunmugi) and spray it on the valve connections.

• Decision Criteria: If bubbles grow, gas is leaking, so close the valve and ventilate by opening windows. If there is no change in the bubbles, you can rest assured. If you truly need help, the wisest way is to request a Safety Check (안전 점검, anjeon jeomgeom) from the gas service center or management office without hesitation.

Quick Korean Dictionary

• 가스 밸브 (gaseu baelbeu): Gas Valve

• 중간 밸브 (jung-gan baelbeu): Intermediate Valve

• 도시가스 (dosi gaseu): City Gas

• 안전 점검 (anjeon jeomgeom): Safety Check

• 가로 / 세로 (garo / sero): Horizontal / Vertical

Enkostay will protect your peaceful daily life

Gas safety isn't complicated; it starts with the small habit of flipping the valve 'horizontal' after cooking. Enkostay will always be a warm and reliable guide so that you can enjoy cooking warm meals without anxiety in Korea. Don't forget to check the valve tonight! 🏠