A broken heater is expensive (depending on the parts), but if you’re aiming to avoid replacing the HVAC system completely, it’s bound to be more money with labour costs and transporting it back to your property. This is one of many reasons to pay for a gas heater service!
Although you might think your heater can work year after year, a regular heater service reduces the chances of emergency repairs when you need heating most in the middle of winter.
So, how often should you request maintenance, and what does this entail? This blog will be an ultimate resource on why servicing is so important.
A gas heater warms your spaces and keeps them comfortable during cold months, but it is essential for it to be running safely. Licensed gas fitters will inspect and test all aspects of your gas heater, and this includes:
Let’s explore the reasons why you must book a service at least once every 12 months.
Most manufacturers say that the lifespan for your gas heater is around 15 to 20 years. This is only true if the heater is maintained as per the manufacturer’s recommendations. When you don’t service your gas heater, it is more likely to break down.
If you have any existing problems with your heating, such as holes in the vents, ignition failure, or broken circuitry, it won’t be repaired, so you’ll risk these problems getting worse. The last thing you want is to spend thousands of dollars on a replacement unit!
Depending on your warranty as well, many of these policies require an annual heater service to keep this active.
A yearly service for your gas heater will pare back your energy consumption, such as using less gas to heat a room. Sustainability Victoria states that the running costs for heating a medium (160 sqm) home vary from around $1,200 per year for multi-split reverse-cycle air conditioning all the way up to more than $2,700 for ducted gas heating.
Your energy expenses will be higher, and with worse energy efficiency, you’ll hike up your carbon footprint and environmental impact as well. You also won’t be able to offset maintenance costs since you won’t save on utility bills!
A lack of consistent maintenance strains your heater, so smaller issues are bound to become bigger problems later down the line.
From August 10, 2022, the installation of any new or replacement gas ducted heaters that do not comply with the updated Australian Standard AS5263.1.3 is not permitted in Victoria. For example, it is illegal to sell, supply or install new or second-hand open-flued gas space heaters that do not meet new and improved safety specifications.
Some ducted heaters are open-flued and can be affected by negative pressure if there is insufficient ventilation. This applies to ducted heaters when the appliance is installed indoors, and if this pressure affects the ducted heater, the air ducts around the house that push out hot air are not affected by the operation of exhaust fans.
If your gas heater does not comply with current Australian safety standards, your home will not be safe. Older heaters with open-flued technology, for example, may not meet the latest safety requirements in Victoria for both public residences and public housing to protect all properties.
Regular servicing is non-negotiable. According to Energy Safe Victoria, your gas heater should be serviced at least every two years by a qualified gasfitter, and a carbon dioxide test should be conducted at the heating vent outlets in all rooms. Some heaters need fresh air flow to operate safely. This way, you’ll lower your chances of dangerous incidents and keep your spaces on board with legal requirements.
Gas ducted heating can produce carbon monoxide as a by-product, so a leak from a lack of servicing is dangerous to your health and is potentially fatal. Poisoning symptoms include:
A regular service detects and repairs potential leaks, and this is especially true for older gas heaters.
No matter how confident you are, never DIY a gas heater service. Only a qualified professional can carry out this assessment and guarantee that your heater will comply with current safety standards.
As masters of cooling and heating solutions, Aust Climate HVAC technicians are happy to help you get the most out of your heater and protect your home from avoidable hazards.
Read: Why Ducted Heating Cleaning is a Winter Essential for Melbourne Homes!
There are many reasons to trust us for service, repair and maintenance support.
Have you been considering upgrading to electric heating and cooling? The Victorian Energy Upgrades program helps Victorians cut power bills and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The plan offers financial incentives for upgrading to a system that’s more energy efficient: a win-win!
Households can receive rebates or discounts on a variety of energy-saving products. Find out more, speak to the Aust Climate technicians for assistance with the program, or check the VEU registry for a list of approved products.
What are some of the features of the Mitsubishi ducted air conditioning?
Experience the precision and versatility of the low-profile ducted Mitsubishi Electric PEAD series. Features include:
Whether you need servicing for ducted heating in Burwood, Caulfield, Doncaster, Boronia, Croydon, Keysborough, Rowville, Kew, Camberwell, or Vermont, you can get an online quote now!
If you want to book warranty repairs or are curious about our sales and installation services, Aust Climate is your one-stop shop for repairs, maintenance, and technicians you can count on. And if you’ve got some plans in the works to upgrade to electric heating and cooling, split systems, or ducted reverse cycle heating and cooling, we can assist in this implementation.
Contact us today by calling 03 9726 4444, emailing us at admin@austclimate.com.au, or by visiting our showroom in Chirnside Park, Victoria!
We have a range of payment options, work with reputable manufacturers, and offer you a guarantee for peace of mind.
