Gas Heating – Health & Safety Issues

Just like your hot water system, gas heaters need to be professionally installed by a qualified technician. An unsafe heater can cause a house fire or pollute your home with dangerous fumes.

Professional servicing of your heater is recommended if there is any sign of trouble or every 2 years (before you use it during the winter period).

Using Gas Heaters Safely

• Have plenty of ventilation. Never seal up doorways or windows. Ventilation is very important to allow fresh air to come in whilst the fumes go out.

• Prevent anyone from touching very hot surfaces.

• Be careful when drying clothes inside. Keep all flammable material at least one metre away from the heater.

You Should NEVER…

• Use an unflued gas heater in a bathroom, bedroom or caravan. Toxic gases may cause serious health problems in these situations.

• Use or store solvents, aerosols or pressure pack cans near a gas heater – even if the heater is turned off, the pilot light may still be on.

• Dispose of tissues, cotton buds or other things in a gas fire – this can affect combustion and produce dangerous pollutants.

• Use an outdoor appliance inside.

Signs Of A Faulty Gas Heater

A faulty gas heater can cause serious problems. Health Problems that seem to be worse, or only occur when the heating is on, may be caused by carbon monoxide.

Symptoms of carbon monoxide heating include:

• Tiredness

• Shortness of breath

• Headaches

• Dizziness

• Nausea

• Weakness

• Confusion

• Chest Pain

High levels of carbon monoxide are very dangerous. If you suspect you may be affected by carbon monoxide, create ventilation by opening windows and doors, turn off the appliance and go outside. See your doctor if symptoms persist.

When To Check Your Gas Heater

There is a yellow sooty flame

The pilot light goes out

There are signs of heat damage such as discolouration of the walls or heater panels

The walls become too hot to touch while the heater is on

There are soot stains around the heater

Replace An Out Of Date Heater

Old heaters – some heaters cannot be repaired for safety reasons and sometimes, spare parts aren’t available for older heaters. If your heater is very old (around 15 to 20 years) it may be worthwhile to upgrade the system.

If you’re experiencing any issues with your room heater, want some technical advice, or want to book a service, our experienced team can help. Give us a call on 9023 3232 or complete a booking request today.