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August 21, 2026Looking for how to disconnect a gas cooktop Australia? You may be planning to replace your existing gas appliance with a modern induction cooktop. While the change can make sense as part of an all-electric kitchen, disconnecting a gas cooktop isn’t as simple as unplugging an electrical appliance.
Gas work can be dangerous and, in Australia, some gas and electrical work must legally be carried out by qualified professionals. The Australian Government recommends using qualified professionals when switching gas appliances to electric alternatives.
So, what actually needs to happen when you’re replacing a gas cooktop with induction?
Can You Disconnect a Gas Cooktop Yourself?
It’s best not to.
A gas cooktop is connected to your home’s gas supply, so removing the appliance can involve gas isolation, disconnection and making the remaining gas connection safe.
Turning off the appliance’s isolation valve does not necessarily mean the gas work is finished. The connection still needs to be dealt with appropriately once the cooktop is removed.
Gas regulations and licensing requirements can also vary between Australian states and territories. For this reason, gas disconnection should be handled by an appropriately licensed gasfitter.
You can prepare for the replacement by clearing the area, checking the manufacturer’s instructions for your new induction cooktop and arranging the required trades. However, leave the gas connection itself to a qualified professional.
How to Safely Disconnect a Gas Cooktop
The exact process depends on the existing installation, but a professional gasfitter will generally assess the appliance and connection before carrying out the disconnection.
Arrange for the gas supply to be safely isolated
Before the cooktop can be disconnected, the gas supply to the appliance needs to be isolated.
Gas installations have specific isolation requirements, and the location and arrangement of the isolation point can vary between properties. Energy Safe Victoria, for example, specifies requirements for isolation of residential cooking appliances.
This is one reason you shouldn’t simply attempt to loosen the gas connection yourself.
Have the gas cooktop disconnected by a licensed professional
Once the gas supply has been safely isolated, the cooktop can be disconnected from the gas installation.
The professional will determine the appropriate way to deal with the existing connection based on the property’s gas installation and what you intend to do with the gas supply afterwards.
For a gas-to-induction conversion, the aim isn’t just to remove the old cooktop. The unused gas connection must also be left in a safe and compliant condition.
Make the unused gas connection safe
Once the gas cooktop is gone, there may still be gas pipework serving that location.
Don’t leave an exposed or unsuitable gas connection underneath the new cooktop.
The appropriate solution depends on the existing installation and whether other gas appliances in the home will continue using the gas supply. A licensed gasfitter can determine whether the local connection should be isolated, capped or otherwise altered.
Importantly, removing one gas cooktop does not automatically mean your entire property has been disconnected from the gas network.
What Happens to the Gas Line When Switching to Induction?
This depends on whether you’re only replacing the cooktop or moving away from gas altogether.
If you still have other gas appliances, such as a gas hot water system or heater, you may continue to use the property’s existing gas supply. In this situation, the gas connection serving the old cooktop can be dealt with separately.
If you’re removing all gas appliances and want to stop using gas at your property, you’ll need to discuss a broader gas disconnection or abolishment with your energy retailer.
The Australian Government explains that a gas disconnection is generally a temporary closure, while abolishment is a permanent disconnection. The availability and process can vary depending on your location and property.
What Do You Need to Do Before Installing an Induction Cooktop?
Switching from gas to induction involves more than simply removing the old cooktop.
Induction cooktops use electricity, so the electrical requirements of the new appliance need to be considered before installation.
Depending on the model and your home’s existing electrical supply, installation may require electrical work. The Australian Government states that electrical work associated with installing an induction cooktop must be carried out by an electrician with the appropriate current licence for the relevant state or territory.
Before buying your new cooktop, check:
- The dimensions of the existing cut-out.
- The dimensions and installation requirements of the induction model.
- The manufacturer’s electrical requirements.
- Whether your existing electrical circuit can support the appliance.
- Whether an electrician will need to install or modify the required electrical connection.
- Whether the benchtop needs to be modified after removing the gas cooktop.
Can You Replace a Gas Cooktop With an Induction Cooktop?
Yes. Replacing a gas cooktop with induction is one option for moving towards an all-electric home.
The Australian Government lists induction cooktops as an electric alternative to gas cooking and notes that switching appliances over can be done progressively rather than all at once.
However, the two appliances work differently, so you should plan the gas disconnection and electrical installation as separate parts of the project. Having the relevant professionals involved from the beginning can help make sure each stage is completed safely.
Do You Need a Plumber to Disconnect a Gas Cooktop?
For the gas component of the job, you should use an appropriately licensed gasfitter or qualified professional authorised to perform the relevant gas work in your state or territory.
In Australia, some gas work cannot legally be performed by an unqualified person. The Australian Government specifically warns that some gas and electrical work must be carried out by qualified professionals and can be dangerous when attempted without the appropriate skills.
A licensed professional can assess your existing connection, safely disconnect the gas cooktop and determine what needs to happen to the remaining gas pipework.
You may then need an electrician to handle the electrical requirements of the new induction cooktop.
What Should You Not Do When Removing a Gas Cooktop?
When replacing a gas cooktop, avoid:
- Attempting to disconnect the gas connection yourself.
- Cutting or modifying gas pipework.
- Leaving an unused gas connection exposed.
- Assuming that closing an isolation valve means the installation has been permanently disconnected.
- Installing an induction cooktop without checking its electrical requirements.
- Assuming every property has the same gas connection arrangement.
Gas and electrical installations can differ considerably between homes, so the safest approach is to have the installation assessed before work begins.
FAQs About Gas Cooktop
Do I need a plumber to remove a gas cooktop?
The gas connection should be handled by an appropriately licensed gasfitter or qualified professional. Physical removal of the appliance and installation of the replacement may involve other trades depending on the work required.
Can I leave the gas pipe under an induction cooktop?
Don’t assume that an unused gas connection can simply be left in place. The existing installation should be assessed by a qualified gasfitter, who can determine the appropriate way to make the connection safe and compliant.
Do I need an electrician to install an induction cooktop?
Potentially, yes. Induction cooktops use electricity and may have specific electrical requirements. Any required electrical work must be performed by an appropriately licensed electrician.
Does removing a gas cooktop disconnect my house from gas?
No. Removing one gas appliance does not necessarily disconnect the entire property from the gas network. If you want to stop your gas supply completely, you’ll need to discuss a disconnection or permanent abolishment with your energy retailer.
Conclusion
Switching from a gas cooktop to induction can be a straightforward upgrade when the gas and electrical work is planned properly. The key is not to treat gas disconnection as a DIY task.
If you’re replacing your gas cooktop and need help safely disconnecting the existing gas connection, Neighbourhood Plumbing can assess the installation and help you understand what needs to be done before your new cooktop is fitted.
Get in touch with our team today to arrange professional assistance with your gas cooktop disconnection!
About the Author
From unclogging the toughest drains to repairing leaking toilets, Ricky is a seasoned plumber who has brought his craftmanship to homes across Melbourne. He is passionate about sharing plumbing tips just as much as he is about fixing your plumbing issues. So, when your taps or pipes begin leaking, you know who to call.
