What is a potential consequence of incorrect installation of a gas appliance?

The correct choice highlights a critical safety concern associated with gas appliances. Incorrect installation can create pathways for gas to escape, leading to potentially hazardous conditions such as gas leaks. These leaks pose significant risks, including the possibility of explosions, fires, and health hazards due to inhalation of gas. Ensuring that gas appliances are installed according to the manufacturer's specifications and prevailing safety codes is essential to prevent such dangerous situations.

The other choices, while seemingly positive, do not relate to the consequences of poor installation. Increased energy efficiency, improved safety, and lower operational costs are typically associated with proper installation and maintenance of gas appliances, not with the consequences of incorrect installation.