We all know we can’t be complacent when it comes to gas safety. But just how often should you service your gas heating appliances and hot water system?
Here we’ll give you some tips to put your best foot forward to help stay safe with gas all year-round.
Even if your gas heater appears to be tiptop, EnergySafe Victoria advises you have it professionally serviced at least every two years by a registered and licensed gasfitter endorsed for gas appliance servicing.
Gas heaters can leak carbon monoxide and become dangerous, so it’s especially important for your service agent to check for any signs of spills and address them immediately.
A regular check-up by a pro in the know will help ensure any deterioration is picked up. Some of the things you could ask your service agent to check include:
flue
burner & gas pressure
heat exchanger
thermostat
regulators
fan
air filters
any hoses
Get to know your system
While only licensed gasfitters should service your appliance, there are a few checks you can complete yourself in between services that can help keep your gas heater running efficiently, pick up issues early and possibly even extend its lifetime. Consult your user manual to see what these are for your heater.
Just remember; regular health checks don’t replace the need for professional servicing. Always read and follow the operating instructions, manufacturer’s guidelines and manual and consider any safety risks when completing any checks yourself.
Always keep an eye out and if you notice any of the following signs, you should give your gasfitter a call right away:
a yellowor sooty flame (unless it’s intentional for appearances, like a gas log fire)
accumulation of soot around the heater
a pilot light that blows out frequently or ‘pops’ while being lit
any signs of heat damage like discoloured walls or heater panels, or if the wall turns hot to touch while the appliance is on
the walls become too hot while the heater is on.
Faulty, ill-fitted or poorly maintained gas heaters can cause a build of carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is produced whenever a fuel burns – whether it’s gas, oil or even a classic wood fire. When systems are fitted correctly, serviced often and in good working order, they should vent this gas externally. But irregular servicing and breakdowns can lead to this noxious gas escaping into spots that it shouldn’t.
Carbon monoxide is invisible and odourless, so you can’t pick a leak by sense alone. However, if you do notice signs of illness from carbon monoxide including tiredness, dizziness, headaches, weakness, nausea, shortness of breath or chest pain, be sure to call a professional immediately. You can also purchase a carbon monoxide detector from hardware stores for extra peace of mind.
Classic storage tank water heaters can last up to 10-15 years and regular maintenance may significantly extend their lifespan..
Always check your manufacturer’s guide for their recommendation, but the Queensland Building and Construction Commission recommends getting a licenced plumber or electrician to run a major service on your system every five to six years to help keep it running tip top. Make sure they include:
Inspecting and flushing the expansion control valve (if you have one installed)
Inspecting the anode
Checking for calcium build up or corrosion
Replacing the temperature pressure relief valve
Checking the unit for any visible issues
Inspecting all connections
Checking the drain valve is not blocked
Always be sure to follow any operating instructions, manufacturer’s guidelines and manual and consider any safety risks when completing any checks yourself.
If you have a storage tank system, checking the temperature and pressure relief valve is something you can do yourself every six months. It involves expelling very hot water, so you’ll need to follow any operating instructions, manufacturer’s guidelines and manuals and take safety precautions like wearing gloves, long pants and closed-toed shoes.
Check that the ground underneath the valve is clear and stand as far back as possible. Lift the handle on the valve slowly to release a little water from the end of the pipe before returning the lever to close the valve and stop the flow. If it feels stuck or if the water continues to flow after closing, don’t force it – call your plumber, as it likely needs replacing.
Time for some professional TLC?
Between scheduled services, there are signs to watch out for which indicate that a pro should pop by sooner rather than later:
If you have a tankless continuous flow system and the temperature fluctuates often (note that gradual temperature fluctuation is normal for storage tank systems)
If you have a tank system and there is a constant leak or frequent venting of hot water from the temperature and pressure release valve/pipe (though it’s normal for the valve to release a little bit of water).
If you smell gas, act immediately. Turn the gas off at the source if it’s safe to do so, extinguish any flames and avoid operating electrical switches or mobile phones nearby – find a safe spot and call your gas fitter or plumber.
Murphy’s Law says that if a hot water system is on the brink of break down, it’s going to choose the most inconvenient time to go. Cold shower, anyone? But you can help avoid the pain of after-hours call-outs and hours without hot water with regular servicing and knowing what to look out for. Long live your home’s hot water heater!
To view AGL’s gas plans in your state, visit our electricity and gas plans.
This article provides general information only and is not intended to provide any health advice. Please read and follow all operating instructions, manufacturer’s guidelines and manuals and seek professional advice for any safety advice specific to your home and appliances or refer to your local safety authority.
