Service Your Gas Heater Before Winter

Is it important to get your gas heater serviced before the start of winter? Of course it is, and we’re here to explain why.

We’ll look at the importance of regular servicing, the potential dangers of gas leaks and carbon monoxide leaks, and the benefits of having an energy-efficient gas heater running at optimal level. Keep reading to find the answers to your questions on gas heaters and gas appliance servicing.

Are You Really Feeling the Cold?

As we all prepare to snuggle into winter and spend more time at home than in the warmer months, we may start to notice the drafts and cold leakage more than we have in previous years.

Heating units sit unused for half of the year and that is why here at Metropolitan Heating and Cooling, we recommend you service your gas heater or gas log fire before winter hits. Regular maintenance of your heater will save you a future headache and ensure the longevity of your unit.

It’s something that’s easily forgotten but should be done annually before running heaters for the first time. And, of course, there’s always a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning if it’s not functioning properly.

Reasons to Get Your Gas Heater Serviced

As the chilly winds of winter approach, it’s essential to ensure that your gas heater is in tip-top condition to keep your home warm and cosy throughout the season.

Gas heater servicing is a smart move for several compelling reasons.

• Safety first: The safety of your family is paramount. Gas heaters (and other gas appliances) can pose a potential risk if not properly maintained. Regular servicing ensures that a gas leak or faulty components are detected and fixed promptly, reducing the risk of carbon monoxide leaks or other dangerous situations.
• Efficiency matters: A well-maintained gas heating system operates more efficiently, which means it will heat your home more effectively and cost you less in energy bills. An efficient gas heater not only keeps you warm but also saves you money.
• Prolonged lifespan: Regular servicing can extend the lifespan of your gas heater. Small issues can turn into major problems if left unattended, leading to costly repairs or even a premature replacement.
• Peace of mind: Knowing that your gas heater is in top condition provides peace of mind. You won’t have to worry about sudden breakdowns or unexpected repair expenses during the coldest days of winter.

In conclusion, servicing your gas heater before winter is a wise investment in your safety, comfort, and wallet. Don’t wait until the temperatures drop – schedule a professional gas appliance service now to ensure a warm and worry-free winter season.

The Dangers of a Gas Leak

Gas leaks are not to be taken lightly, especially when it comes to your gas heater. It’s one of the main reasons to arrange a professional gas heater service.

Understanding the dangers of a gas leak is crucial for the safety of your home and family.

• Health hazards: One of the most immediate risks of a gas leak is the health of your loved ones. Inhaling natural gas, which primarily consists of methane, can lead to symptoms like dizziness, nausea, headaches, and even unconsciousness. Prolonged exposure can be life-threatening.
• Explosion risk: Gas leaks in confined spaces can lead to explosive situations. If gas accumulates and comes into contact with an open flame or spark, it can result in a devastating explosion, causing severe damage to your property and posing a significant risk to life.
• Fire hazard: Even without an explosion, gas leaks are highly flammable. A simple ignition source, like a pilot light or an electrical spark, can lead to a fire that spreads rapidly, endangering lives and property.
• Carbon monoxide poisoning: Incomplete combustion due to a gas leak can produce carbon monoxide (CO), an odourless and colourless gas that is deadly when inhaled in large quantities. Symptoms of CO poisoning include confusion, chest pain, and, in severe cases, death.
• Environmental impact: Beyond the immediate dangers to your home and health, gas leaks contribute to environmental harm by releasing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change.

In conclusion, the dangers of a gas leak cannot be overstated. Regularly servicing your gas heater can help prevent leaks, ensuring the safety and well-being of your family and reducing the risk of catastrophic accidents.

Don’t ignore the signs of a gas leak from one of your gas heating appliances – if you suspect one, evacuate your home immediately and contact a professional for assistance.

What is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon monoxide is extremely dangerous and it’s important to understand how it could affect you. Carbon monoxide poisoning isn’t easy to diagnose because the gas is colourless and odourless, you don’t know it’s there and before you know it you’re getting drowsy and sick.

The symptoms are similar to those of the flu. You may not necessarily have a clear indication of what is happening to you and thousands of people in Australia have been admitted to hospital in the past 20 years for carbon monoxide poisoning.

Unfortunately, people are largely reactive and wait until something has happened to take action. Don’t wait until it’s too late. The best way to avoid a carbon monoxide disaster is to service your heater and get a carbon monoxide test. Find out more about our carbon monoxide testing.

The Metropolitan Ducted Gas Heater Service

Signing up for a Metropolitan heater service is much more than just a simple check. Our technicians perform hundreds of gas heater services each year. They are the best in their field.

When servicing your ducted gas heater, they will:

• Do a comprehensive carbon monoxide test
• Clean the dust build-up on the fan motor assembly
• Check the flame sensor and clean it
• Check and adjust spark gaps on the igniter
• Check that capacitors are running the motor within the specified range
• Test that the burning pressure is correctly set
• Check the seal on the flue connection
• Check all electrical connections
• Test for the correct airflow
• Clean the return air grill and the return air cavity
• Check the seal on the return air cavity
• Ensure the whole unit is working as it should

Our team of technicians at Metropolitan Heating and Cooling are fully qualified and do regular refresher courses to ensure they are always up to date with the latest fault-finding techniques in gas heating systems.  For gas heater repairs Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, Perth, Sydney and surrounding suburbs, call the professionals at Metropolitan Heating and Cooling.

Safety Tips

In addition to servicing your gas heater this winter, you should keep in mind the following safety tips:

• Never leave a heater unattended – don’t go out to get some milk and return to a fire
• Turn it off when you’re leaving a room or going to sleep
• Don’t let pets or children play too close to a heater
• Don’t dry clothes with your heater – dry them in the room, not too close to the gas furnace or space heater
• Make sure your smoke alarms are functional and operational

Contact Us Today

Metropolitan Heating and Cooling is here for all your gas heater services. If you suspect you’ve got faulty gas appliances, you need to act immediately.

We take care of general maintenance, gas heater repairs and installations for all gas heaters from ducted gas heaters to wall furnaces.

For expert advice, quality workmanship, immediate gas heater repairs and outstanding customer satisfaction, contact us today.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.