As the colder months roll in across Torquay and the Surf Coast, gas heaters start working overtime. But before you rely on yours day and night, it’s worth asking an important question:
Is your gas heater actually safe to use?
Faulty or poorly maintained gas heaters can pose serious risks, including carbon monoxide exposure. The good news is there are some clear warning signs to watch for—and simple steps you can take to protect your household.
Why Gas Heater Safety Matters
Gas heaters are a reliable and efficient way to heat your home, but like any appliance, they need regular maintenance to operate safely.
One of the biggest risks is exposure to carbon monoxide (CO)—a colourless, odourless gas that can be dangerous, or even fatal, in high concentrations. Because you can’t see or smell it, issues often go unnoticed without proper checks.
That’s why regular servicing and knowing what to look out for is so important - and it can also save you money!
7 Warning Signs Your Gas Heater May Not Be Safe
If you notice any of the following, it’s best to stop using your heater and have it checked by a licensed professional:
1. Yellow or Orange Flame Instead of Blue
A healthy gas flame should burn blue. Yellow or orange flames can indicate incomplete combustion, which may produce carbon monoxide.
2. Unusual Smells
While natural gas is odourised for safety, any strange or persistent smells (especially when the heater is running) shouldn’t be ignored.
3. Soot or Staining Around the Heater
Black marks, soot, or discolouration around vents or the unit itself can be a sign something isn’t burning properly.
4. Headaches, Dizziness or Nausea Indoors
These can be early symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure—especially if they improve when you leave the house.
5. Heater Keeps Shutting Off
Frequent shutdowns or difficulty staying on could point to a fault with safety controls or internal components.
6. Strange Noises
Banging, rattling, or whistling sounds aren’t normal and may indicate mechanical issues or blockages.
7. It Hasn’t Been Serviced in Years
If you can’t remember the last time your heater was serviced, it’s probably overdue. Most manufacturers recommend servicing every 1–2 years.
What Should You Do If You Notice These Signs?
If your heater is showing any of the above warning signs:
- Turn the heater off immediately
- Open windows and ventilate the area
- Avoid using the heater until it’s been checked
- Contact a licensed gas plumber for inspection
It’s always better to be cautious when it comes to gas appliances.
How a Professional Gas Heater Service Keeps You Safe
A professional service goes far beyond a quick check. It typically includes:
- Inspecting burners and heat exchangers
- Cleaning internal components
- Testing for gas leaks
- Checking ventilation and airflow
- Carbon monoxide testing
- Ensuring all safety controls are functioning properly
This not only keeps your heater safe—it can also improve efficiency and extend its lifespan.
Stay Safe This Winter in Torquay & Geelong
With cooler weather setting in, now is the ideal time to make sure your gas heater is operating safely and efficiently.
If you’ve noticed any warning signs—or simply want peace of mind before winter really kicks in—a professional service is a smart move.
Book Your Gas Heater Safety Check Today
At Tomlinson Plumbing, we provide professional gas heater servicing, safety checks, and repairs across Torquay, Geelong, Ocean Grove, Barwon Heads & surrounding areas.
Whether it’s a wall furnace, space heater, gas log fire or ducted heating system, we can make sure it’s running safely and efficiently.
Don’t take chances with your family’s safety this winter.
Contact Tomlinson Plumbing today on 5261 2422 to book your gas heater service.
FAQ
How often should a gas heater be serviced?
Gas heaters should be serviced every 2 years, or annually if they are older or heavily used.
Can a gas heater leak carbon monoxide?
Yes—faulty or poorly maintained gas heaters can produce carbon monoxide if combustion isn’t happening correctly.
Is it safe to use an old gas heater?
Older heaters can still be safe if properly maintained, but they should be serviced regularly and checked for efficiency and safety.
What does carbon monoxide smell like?
Carbon monoxide has no smell, colour, or taste—which is why it’s so dangerous and hard to detect without proper testing.