Staying Safe with Gas Heating

Video: The Project - Channel Ten - How Safe Is Your Heater

Video: 9News - Channel Nine - Urgent Gas Heater Warning

As the weather gets cooler, we start to look at turning on our gas heaters to give you the lovely cosy heater that they provide. However, we must prioritise having our gas appliances checked before we turn them back on over the winter months.

There is no doubt that it is an easy item to forget to service and maintain, however, the importance of this can lead to life or death situation if they are not checked at least every 2 years or as specified by the manufacturer.

Heating and cooling account for 40% of household energy, including varies heating providers electric, gas and wood. It is always a good idea to choose heating systems that are energy efficient and will provide you long-term service. It is irrelevant what type of heating service you have, it must regularly be serviced either at the end of each winter season or every second. For health and safety reasons it is most important as it can throw out harmful carbon monoxide that can cause unconsciousness and even death due to poisoning.

It is easy to ensure that your heater is working effectively and safely; regularly cleaning your heater (if possible) to ensure no dust and dirty is obstructing the vents by using a vacuum and wet cloth.

If you are worried about the levels of carbon monoxide being produced in your home then there are some amazing products available to monitor and notify you if there is carbon monoxide in the air. There is one that has stood out to us as being a great investment: https://youtu.be/x_fXSQb1I0o

Do not use a flammable or cleaning liquids as they can be dangerous. The residue from the chemicals will start to smell (like kerosene) as the heater gets warmer. Just use water and a soft cloth to wipe down your heaters when needed.

The filters, jets and fans are best to be left for a licensed gas fitter to clean and checked over to ensure it is safe to be used.

Always ensure you have plenty of ventilation in the room while using the heater.

If you have any of the following issues with your gas heater be sure to turn it off immediately and call a qualified gas fitter to test faults before you turn it back on.

• Heating service turning on and off unexpectedly
• Sparks coming from the plug or on-off button
• Yellow or snooty flame (gas heater)

There are many signs that may arise before death or fire has engulfed your home from your heating service. If you have any of these signs be sure to turn off heating service and open all windows and doors in the area, to release any harmful chemicals.

• Shortness of breath
• Tiredness
• Extreme Headaches
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Chest pain

If you are in doubt, turn off the heating service immediately and open all doors and windows. If you feel you have suffered harmful chemicals call or go directly to your doctor.

When it comes to any heating services always have a qualified and certified person to check and maintain your heating service.