Safety Tips for Operating Your Gas Heater
In the last couple of weeks, light has been fading fast in the evenings while the mornings are darker. This is perhaps the clearest sign that winter is fast starting to kick in. As you get ready for the fast-approaching cold days, you may want to get the gas heater ready for the frosty nights.
Just before you get it running again, you should examine your gas heater to ensure it is in the best working order. The following are the top 10 safety measures that you must observe to get the most out of the appliance while staying clear from danger.
- Check Gas Heater Certification
Ensure that your gas heater is certified by the gas association or regulator in your city. The Australian Gas Association requires you to display plates that indicate how it meets the emissions standards. Choose a certified product to protect your loved ones.
- Take More Care of Old Heaters
We may all know the old saying “if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it. However, your old gas heater may need more care, especially because the heat often causes surfaces to wear out fast. Again, use the help of an expert.
- Beware of the Hazard
Do not place anything on or near the gas heater. Aerosols and solvents are particularly highly flammable. Are there young children, the elderly and pets in your home? Ensure that they steer clear of the area around the heater.
- Service The Heater After 2 Years
Requirements dictate that you must service your gas heater after every 2 years. You may know a little bit about operating it, but leave the maintenance and service to the experts. Contact a qualified and experienced installer.
- Ensure Proper Ventilation
Free all permanent points of ventilation from any blockages. Ensure that the apparatus is fitted with a flue to direct exhaust gases or smoke outside your house. The room must also be very well ventilated.
- Clean the Heater
Has it been a long time since you used your heater? Clean it before connecting it on. Check all burners, fans, airwaves, filters, and surfaces. A damp cloth soaked with ordinary dish soap and tap water should be enough.
- Trust Your Nose
Do you suspect that you can smell leaking gas? Chances are that it is leaking from the gas heater. Do not ignore your gut instincts. Turn it off that very moment and contact a qualified gas fitter.
- Do not Move the Heater
Do you want to heat a different room? You can only move the heater when it is off. Moving it while it is on is dangerous as it could cause gas leaks resulting in an explosion. Let it cool down before moving the gas heater.
- Keep Your Distance
Winter comes with unwanted cold and chilliness, but you must not stay too close to it. Ensure there is more than a meter between the heater and all persons, equipment and materials. Being too close could result in burns.
- Don’t Use it for Drying
Many people are guilty of using the gas heater as a dryer for clothes. Even if you haven’t done this in the past, you must have toyed with the idea. Covering the ventilators and other parts of the heater may cause it to malfunction.
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