Simple Tips to Maintain a Gas Heater Safely

Marcus Lewis Hensley -

Gas heaters are usually safe but those that are unsafe can produce hazardous CO and dangerous fire. If you get your gas heater serviced at least once in two years, it can be really helpful to keep you and your family protected. Gas heaters must be professionally installed and serviced by an expert technician. An unsafe gas heater can cause carbon dioxide poisoning. Here are some simple tips to maintain a gas heater safely.

1. Get it serviced every so often

Every type of gas heater should be serviced once every two years at least by a qualified and trained gasfitter, and they must confirm that there are no chances of carbon monoxide poisoning or spillage, that includes cleaning of all parts and then testing the gas log fires, wall units, space heater, and other heating units. Before booking the gasfitter, make sure he is trained and has complete knowledge about the right equipment. A faulty or poorly functioning gas heater can be a source of CO exposure which is dangerous and life-threatening.

2. Use Alarms for Carbon Monoxide

Now you can buy an audible carbon monoxide alarm for your home. These alarms work as an excellent backup precaution to avoid any fire outbreak. But never use them as a permanent alternative to the proper maintenance and installation of gas heating devices. There are no particular standards in Australia to manufacture, design, and install these alarms in homes. Thus, the alarm you install at your domestic premises must be certified according to US Standards or European standards. Always choose alarms with a visible indication which will notify you of the expiry date of its electrochemical sensing.

3. Don’t use 10+ years old gas heaters

Heaters can’t be used forever. Some heaters can’t be repaired because manufacturers no longer stock spare parts. If you have an old heater, try to replace it with a new heater. Get recommendations from a licensed gas heater service like Heating Experts. Try using split systems or room-sealed gas heaters instead of open-flued gas heaters.

Some more tips

  • You should follow the operating instructions mentioned in the manual or on the heater. If you are using an open-flued gas heater, you must limit your usage and think of safe substitutes.
  • The room must have a lot of ventilation points; because through them fumes leave the room and fresh air comes in.
  • Do not use exhaust fans if you are using an open-flued or unflued gas heater, as they may cause Carbon monoxide poisoning and spillage.
  • Clean your heater to minimize dust and debris build-up by vacuuming out the cold air return vents or duct registers.
  • Never let young kids touch very hot appliances/ areas.
  • While drying clothes inside – place all inflammable kinds of stuff one meter away from the heater.
  • Don’t leave a gas heater on while going to sleep.
  • Avoid using an unflued gas heater in a bedroom, bathroom, or caravan.
  • Make sure that the patio heater is properly fixed and is being used outdoors.
  • Never use a cylinder inside the room.
  • Never use an industrial-type furnace or heater on domestic premises.

Make safety your priority this winter. For gas heater installation, service, and maintenance, you can call Heating Experts and book an appointment with our trained technicians. Call us now 1300 100 040.