During the winter your heating system is your saving grace. Walking into a cosy room after experiencing miserable weather outside is a feeling that’s bliss.
Most homes in Australia have opted for gas-ducted heating because it provides ongoing efficiency and cost savings. However, just like other appliances, gas heaters experience wear and tear and need regular servicing to perform optimally.
The Biggest Reason Why You Should Service Your Gas-Ducted Heating
The biggest reason you should keep up with heating services is because of potential carbon monoxide leaks which can cause serious and fatal injuries. When you book a service for your gas-heated system, a licenced gas fitter checks and tests for CO leaks preventing you from serious illness or injury.
What is Carbon Monoxide (CO)?
Carbon monoxide is a clear and odourless gas formed by the incomplete combustion of fuels. It can be produced by wood, gas, coal and kerosene. It is incredibly harmful and when inhaled it displaces oxygen molecules and stops the body from accessing oxygen. This can cause death or long-term serious injuries to your organs.
Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
The following are common symptoms of CO Poisoning:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness
- Muscle Pain
- Confusion
- Chest Pain
- Shortness of breath
In serious cases people may also experience:
- Seizures
- Cardiac arrest
- Loss of hearing
- Loss of consciousness
How often should you get your heater serviced?
Most manufacturers will ask that your heater is serviced every 2 years to maintain the warranty. However, most gasfitters like the team at Heat and Cool Service Group recommend a yearly service to ensure your gas heating system is performing optimally and that there are no CO leaks. The question we often pose for our customers in doubt is would you rather have a $200 (ish) maintenance expense or a $2000 appliance repair expense?
When should you get your heater serviced?
Getting your heater serviced is an important task that needs to be completed before the winter settles in just in case there are any repairs needed. The perfect time to book your service is between March and May when the weather is still warm enough to enjoy but not cold enough that you’re shivering.
Other reasons you should service your heating system
Extend the lifespan of your heater
Dust, dirt and debris tend to build up and block the vents of your heating system. This forces your heat exchanger to work twice as hard to produce comfort for your whole home. If left unattended, the dirt and debris can be a contributing factor to carbon monoxide leaks. When having your gas ducted heating system serviced the technician will inspect and clean all internal and external parts to prevent build-up.
Reduce the energy bills
During the service, any minor faults with your heating system can be inspected and repaired which can improve your energy efficiency and overall reduce your energy bills. This means you can enjoy the warmth of your home without fearing a massive price increase during the winter months.
Validate the warranty of your heating system
As most heating manufacturers have mandates to ensure that safety standards are met, homeowners should be diligent with servicing. Homeowners that don’t follow servicing mandates won’t be covered by their warranty and assume the risk of any faults that may occur. By keeping your heating system within warranty you’ll be able to offset some of your maintenance expenses.
What’s Included in a Heat and Cool Service Group Gas Heating Service?
We pride ourselves on comprehensive heating and cooling servicing and we take additional care to ensure your system is in tip-top condition. Included in all of our gas-ducted heating services is:
- A 14-Point Service Check.
- Visual inspection and cleaning of all parts including the burner rail, combustion fan and hose.
- Inspection and testing of the heat exchanger.
- Operational checks of all parts.
- Testing and recording the gas pressure.
- Ductwork inspection.
- Return Air Filter Check and replacements as needed.
- A Complete Carbon Monoxide test.
If there’s a repair needed, we’ll attempt to repair the appliance on the day as part of our same-day service policy. If we’re unable to repair your heating system on the day, we’ll work with you to schedule a better time.
If you are yet to schedule your gas ducted heating service, get in touch with our team and make sure your heater is in tip-top condition before winter.
