4 Warning Signs that the Gas Heater May Need a Service

Australia may be well known for its long, scorching hot summers, but that doesn’t mean we don’t experience cold, chilly spells in the winter. When the cold sets in, it’s almost natural for people using natural gas to reach for their trusty gas heaters. Before you switch your gas heater on, check when it was last serviced.

With this in mind, many homeowners routinely schedule the gas heater service Sydney experts recommend. Routine services ensure that your gas heater functions safely and optimally all winter. This post explores a few of the key signs that let you know a service should be scheduled sooner rather than later.

Keep an Eye Out for Crucial Tell-Tale Signs

Costs are rising in every aspect of our lives. It’s not surprising then that many homeowners ditch routine services in favour of waiting for something to break completely before calling a professional.

While you may think that this is an effective way to save money, failed components can lead to a larger expense down the line. To keep your household warm and secure, keep a close eye out for these top signs that your gas heater is overdue for a professional service.

The Pilot Light Has Changed Colour

The simplest and most obvious sign to look out for involves checking the colour of the flame when the heater is on. For the most part, in a healthy, correctly adjusted gas appliance, the flame should always burn a crisp, vivid blue. A blue flame indicates complete combustion, meaning the gas is mixing with the perfect amount of oxygen to burn cleanly and efficiently.

When the flame flickers or burns with a distinct yellow or orange hue, this is a major red flag. A yellow flame indicates incomplete combustion, which often means the burners are clogged with dust, lint, or rust particles.

Not only does this make the heater highly inefficient, but incomplete combustion is also the primary producer of carbon monoxide. Keep in mind that a dangerous, odourless, and colourless gas that can be fatal if inhaled.

Strange Noises Coming From the Gas Heater

Heaters aren’t always silent, and some older units are known to make minor noises as the heat causes materials to expand. However, you’ll be familiar with the gentle hum of your specific heater. If your gas heater starts making unfamiliar, loud, or unsettling sounds, it’s usually a sign that there’s an issue brewing.

Some of the noises to look out for include the following:

• Banging: This typically occurs upon ignition and can signify delayed ignition, where gas builds up before finally catching the flame. This puts unnecessary stress on the heat exchanger.
• Screeching: Can point to a failing blower motor bearing or a slipping fan belt in ducted systems.
• Vibrating and rattling: Usually can indicate loose panels, unaligned components, or a fan mechanism that has accumulated too much debris and unbalanced itself.

Sudden Appearance of Soot Stains or Discolouration

Another clear sign to look out for is the appearance of soot marks around the vents of the heater. Dark brown scorching, or unusual yellowing on the walls or the appliance itself, indicates that there’s an issue and the unit should be shut down immediately.

These dark marks indicate that heat and exhaust gases are escaping from places they shouldn’t. Experts advise that this is a classic sign of a cracked heat exchanger or a severely blocked flue pipe. Escaping flue gases pose an immediate toxic threat to your family.

Experts advise that you should never attempt to repair the gas heater on your own. Not only is it dangerous, but Australia has strict regulations regarding gas safety. Only a licensed plumber or gasfitter with a specialised ‘Type A’ gas appliance servicing license can legally work on your residential gas heater.

People Experience Flu-Like Symptoms When the Heater is On

The most dangerous sign every person in your home should be aware of is how they feel when the heater is on. This is because a faulty gas heater can expel carbon monoxide. Since carbon monoxide cannot be seen, tasted, or smelled, it is known as a silent killer.

During instances of low carbon monoxide spillage, your family might show the following flu-like symptoms:

• Chronic headaches
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Burning eyes

Confirmation of this will be evident if the person feels better when they’re out of the home, or the heater is off. During a standard Australian gas safety service, the technician will use specialised electronic testing equipment to conduct a comprehensive carbon monoxide spillage test.

Final Thoughts

Routinely servicing your gas heater is about more than keeping your home warm and toasty during the cold winter months. A professional service and assessment is a fundamental obligation to home safety. Booking a licensed professional gives you peace of mind, extends the lifespan of your appliance, and keeps your energy bills under control.

If your system is exhibiting any of the warning signs we’ve highlighted, it’s essential to reach out to a licensed and accredited Australian gasfitter today and ensure your home stays both warm and safe before the cold sets in.