Summer is over, and as the colder weather starts to creep in, now is the time to start thinking about getting your heater serviced. The worst time to be without a heater is when it is cold, so we always recommend customers start bringing their heaters in from February to avoid going without their main source of heating for too long when it is needed most!
It is important to get your portable gas heater serviced every season to ensure you and your family are safe. A lot of the heaters we see that are faulty have not had a service for quite some time, so most of the time, all they need is a good clean out and check. Hair, dirt, pet hair, dust and other small particles can clog jets and filters so that the heater ceases to function properly.
Don’t wait until winter to discover that your heater isn’t working! Here’s why it’s important to service your heater regularly.
How Often Should a Gas Heater Be Serviced?
We recommend servicing your gas heater every one to two years. Older appliances (over 10 years) should be serviced yearly. The most important thing you can do to ensure your heater performs well all winter is to conduct a few simple checks BEFORE the cold weather sets in.
Signs Your Gas Heater Needs a Service
It’s always better to be proactive when it comes to servicing your appliances. Regular servicing prevents small problems from turning into bigger, more expensive ones. However, if you notice any of the following, stop using your heater immediately and call your local gas fitter.
- yellow, red or brown flame
- odd stains or signs of heat damage on the unit and/or surrounds
- a pilot light that won’t stay lit
- strange smells
If you can smell gas, move to a safe area and call your local gas fitter immediately.
Benefits of Servicing Your Gas Heater
Servicing your gas heater at regular intervals helps ensure that you will get through the cold winter season without any breakdowns. Other benefits include:
Lower Your Energy Bills – Regular servicing makes your gas heater more efficient, which, in turn, lowers your energy bills.
Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning – carbon monoxide is odourless and colourless, hence its reputation as a silent killer. Having your gas heater checked every year by a licensed gas fitter will minimise your risk of exposure to this poisonous gas. Find out more about preventing CO exposure, including whether you should install a carbon monoxide alarm.
Keep Your Warranty Valid – Most new gas heaters will come with a warranty, but many will stipulate that you have your heater serviced every year to keep it valid.
Extend the Life of Your Heater – The accumulation of dirt, hair and dust over time will prevent your heater from working efficiently and eventually, it will break down.
And remember, your gas heater should only be serviced by a licensed gas fitter like Shoalhaven Hotwater & Elements. Skip the queue and book in your gas heater service now before our annual influx of heaters into the workshop!
