If you rely on a gas heater to get through winter in Torquay and across Victoria, regular servicing isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential for safety, efficiency, and reliability.
But one of the most common questions we hear is:
“How often should I actually service my gas heater?”
The answer depends on a few factors, but there are clear guidelines every homeowner should follow.
Recommended Gas Heater Servicing Frequency
As a general rule:
- Every 2 years for most gas heaters
- Every year for older systems or heavily used heaters
Regular servicing ensures your heater is running safely and efficiently—especially before the colder months set in.
If your heater is due, you can learn more about our gas heater servicing in Torquay
Why Regular Servicing Is So Important
Gas heaters may seem to be working fine, but internal components can wear down over time without obvious signs.
Routine servicing helps to:
- Maintain efficiency and reduce energy costs
- Prevent unexpected breakdowns
- Extend the life of your heater
- Ensure safe operation
You can also read more about the cost benefits in our blog: Can servicing your gas heater save you money?
Gas Heater Safety and Carbon Monoxide Risks
One of the biggest reasons for regular servicing is safety.
Faulty or poorly maintained heaters can produce carbon monoxide, a colourless and odourless gas that can be dangerous if not detected.
Even if your heater seems to be working normally, issues can develop internally.
Learn more about the warning signs in our guide: How do I know if my gas heater is safe to use?
Signs Your Gas Heater May Need Servicing Sooner
Even if you’re within the recommended timeframe, you should book a service sooner if you notice:
- Yellow or orange flame instead of blue
- Strange smells when the heater is running
- Soot or staining around the unit
- Reduced heating performance
- Unusual noises
If any of these occur, it’s best to stop using the heater and have it checked as soon as possible.
When Is the Best Time to Service Your Heater?
The ideal time to service your gas heater is before winter begins.
This ensures:
- Your system is ready when you need it
- You avoid peak-season delays
- Any issues are identified early
However, if winter has already started and your heater hasn’t been serviced, it’s still worth booking in as soon as possible.
What Happens During a Gas Heater Service?
A professional service involves more than just a quick check. It typically includes:
- Cleaning burners and internal components
- Inspecting the heat exchanger
- Checking for gas leaks
- Testing safety controls
- Performing carbon monoxide testing
There's actually a legislated 40-point checklist that the gas fitter has to work through during a service. For further info, check out our post: "Make sure you get a copy of the Appendix E when you have your gas heater serviced"
Book Your Gas Heater Service in Torquay
If it’s been a while since your last service—or you’re not sure when it was last checked—now is the time to act.
At Tomlinson Plumbing, we provide professional gas heater servicing, safety checks, and repairs across Torquay, parts of the Surf Coast, Geelong, Ocean Grove, Barwon Heads & surrounding locations.
We work with all types of gas heaters, including wall furnaces, space heaters, gas log fires, and ducted systems.
Stay warm, safe and efficient this Winter.
Contact Tomlinson Plumbing today on 5261 2422 to book your gas heater service.
FAQ
How often should gas heaters be serviced in Victoria?
Most gas heaters should be serviced every 2 years, or annually if they are older or used more frequently.
Is annual gas heater servicing necessary?
Annual servicing is recommended for older systems or heaters that are used heavily during winter.
Can I use my heater if it hasn’t been serviced?
You can, but it may be less efficient and potentially unsafe. Regular servicing reduces risks and ensures proper operation.
What time of year should I service my gas heater?
The best time is before winter, but servicing during winter is still beneficial if it hasn’t been done recently.