How to Get Gas Service for Your Home in Israel: A Newcomer’s Guide
Relocating to Israel is an exciting adventure, full of new experiences and challenges. Among the many things to sort out in your new home, ensuring you have a reliable gas supply for cooking, heating, and hot water is essential. The process of getting gas service in Israel can seem daunting at first, especially if you’re unfamiliar with how things work here. But don’t worry — this guide will walk you through the process step by step, so you can get your home set up in no time!
1. Understanding How Gas Services Work in Israel
In Israel, gas services are typically provided by private companies rather than a centralized public utility. This means you’ll need to choose a gas provider, set up an account, and arrange for installation or delivery. Gas in Israeli homes is usually used for cooking, heating water, and sometimes for space heating during the colder months.
There are two main types of gas supplies in Israeli homes:
- Piped Gas (Gas Tzivuri): This is more common in apartment buildings or larger residential complexes. Gas is supplied directly through pipelines from a central system, and you’ll pay based on your usage, which is measured by a meter.
- Gas Cylinders (Ballonim): In older buildings or standalone houses, gas is often supplied via portable cylinders. These cylinders need to be refilled or replaced periodically.
Both options are reliable, but your choice will likely depend on what is available in your home. If you’re renting, it’s a good idea to ask your landlord which type of gas service is in place.
2. Choosing a Gas Provider
Once you’ve identified what type of gas service your home uses, the next step is to choose a gas provider. Several private companies operate across Israel, and while service levels are generally good, prices and customer service can vary.
Some of the major gas companies in Israel include:
- Pazgas
- Amisragas
- Supergas
- Sonol Gas
Each of these companies offers both piped gas and gas cylinder services. It’s a good idea to compare prices, plans, and customer reviews before making a decision. The Israeli Ministry of Energy requires gas companies to publish their price lists, so you can easily compare them online. If you live in a building with piped gas, your building management (va’ad bayit) may already have a contract with a specific provider, so check with them before making your own arrangements.
Things to consider when choosing a provider:
- Service availability in your area: Not all providers operate in every region of Israel, so make sure the company you choose serves your location.
- Cost: Ask about installation fees, ongoing costs, and any additional charges for cylinder delivery if relevant.
- Customer support: If you don’t speak Hebrew fluently, it’s worth checking whether the company offers English-speaking support. Good customer service can make a big difference if you ever need help or have an emergency.
3. Setting Up Gas Service
Once you’ve chosen your gas provider, the process of setting up service is fairly straightforward. Here’s a general overview of what to expect:
For Piped Gas (Gas Tzivuri):
- Contact the gas company: You’ll need to call or visit the company’s website to open an account. You’ll likely be asked to provide details such as your home address, the size of your apartment, and your ID or passport number.
- Schedule an installation or activation: If your home already has a piped gas connection, the company may just need to activate the account and check the meters. If not, they’ll send a technician to install the necessary equipment.
- Meter readings: For piped gas, your usage is tracked by a meter, and you’ll be billed monthly or bi-monthly based on how much gas you use.
For Gas Cylinders (Ballonim):
- Order your gas cylinders: Once your account is set up, you can order cylinders to be delivered to your home. Typically, homes with gas cylinders have two tanks so that one can be used while the other is on standby.
- Delivery and installation: Your gas provider will deliver the cylinders and, if necessary, install them for you. The delivery staff will also check for any leaks and ensure the system is safe.
- Replacement and refills: When one cylinder runs out, you can order a refill or replacement. Most companies offer convenient options to order by phone, online, or via an app.
Tip for renters: If you’re renting a furnished apartment, make sure to ask whether the gas account is already set up. In some cases, the landlord may handle this for you, or you may be asked to take over responsibility for the account.
4. Safety and Maintenance Tips
Gas safety is taken very seriously in Israel, and your gas provider is required to conduct regular safety checks. These inspections are crucial for preventing leaks and ensuring your system is functioning correctly.
- Annual safety checks: If you’re using piped gas, the gas company will send a technician to inspect the system at least once a year. This is mandatory and typically included in your service fees.
- Leak detection: If you ever smell gas (it has a strong, distinct odor), turn off the gas supply immediately, open windows, and contact your provider for emergency assistance — most companies have 24/7 hotlines.
- Maintenance: Whether you use piped gas or cylinders, it’s important to avoid tampering with equipment yourself. Always rely on a certified technician for installations, repairs, or inspections.
Conclusion
Getting gas service for your home in Israel may seem a bit confusing at first, but once you understand the process, it’s straightforward. Whether you’re dealing with piped gas or cylinders, the steps are clear: choose a provider, set up your account, and ensure regular maintenance for safety. By following this guide, you’ll be ready to cook, heat water, and stay warm during the winter months without any hassle.
Welcome to your new home in Israel, and here’s to smooth sailing with all the essentials, like gas service, sorted out!
Have more questions about setting up services in Israel? Explore our other guides on Navigating Israel to make your transition smoother and stress-free!