As temperatures drop during winter, many households rely on gas heaters to stay warm and comfortable. While gas heating is generally safe, it can pose significant risks without proper maintenance or ventilation. One of the most critical risks is carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, which can be deadly for families if gas appliances malfunction or are improperly managed. By understanding the risks, following good practices, and ensuring regular heater servicing, you can enjoy a warm, safe, and healthy winter.
What Is Carbon Monoxide and Why Is It Dangerous?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odorless, and toxic gas that can spill from gas heaters when they are faulty, improperly maintained, or used in poorly ventilated spaces. CO is particularly dangerous because it can’t be detected by sight or smell, making regular testing and servicing of gas heaters critical to avoid exposure.
Exposure to CO could cause serious health issues and even fatalities. Symptoms of CO poisoning include:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Weakness or fatigue
- Nausea or vomiting
- Confusion
If you or your family experience these symptoms while using a gas heater, turn it off immediately, ventilate the area, and call for professional help.
Safe Use of Gas Heating
To protect your household, follow these essential safety guidelines when using gas heaters this winter:
Get Regular Gas Heating Servicing
Have your gas heater serviced by a licensed gas fitter every two years. This prevents risks such as carbon monoxide leaks and ensures your appliance operates efficiently. Check that your gasfitter is licensed for servicing Type A gas appliances (common domestic appliances like heaters and cooktops).
Ensure Proper Ventilation
Make sure your home has adequate airflow while the heater is running. Check that ventilation points, such as windows or permanent vents, are not blocked. Never use a gas heater in a tightly sealed room. Leave a window slightly open if necessary, especially if using an open-flued heater.
Avoid Negative Pressure Environments
Running kitchen range hoods, bathroom exhaust fans, or other extraction systems at the same time as a gas heater can create negative pressure, which draws poisonous gases like carbon monoxide into living spaces. Avoid operating both simultaneously.
Install a Carbon Monoxide Alarm
As a back-up safety measure, consider installing UL2034- or EN50291-compliant carbon monoxide alarms. However, remember that alarms are not a substitute for proper maintenance.
Switch Off Overnight or When Unnecessary
Gas heaters should not be left running overnight or for long periods of time. This helps reduce the risk of carbon monoxide buildup and prevents wasting energy.
Never Use Outdoor Gas Appliances Indoors
Outdoor gas appliances like barbecues, patio heaters, or fire pits are not safe for indoor settings as they release dangerous levels of carbon monoxide.
Key Considerations for Open-Flued Heaters
Open-flued gas heaters can pose higher risks than other heaters because they draw air for combustion from inside your home. Improper ventilation or negative pressure can cause dangerous gases to spill back into living spaces.
To mitigate these risks:
- Have your open-flued heater serviced by a licensed gas fitter every two years, including a flue inspection.
- Never block ventilation points or operate kitchen/bathroom fans while the heater is running.
- Consider replacing gas heating with safer alternatives, such as room-sealed gas heaters or energy-efficient split systems.
New Safety Standards for Gas Heaters
Following a tragic CO poisoning case in Australia in 2017, the Victorian Government has introduced stricter safety standards for open-flued gas heaters. New heaters must now shut down automatically if CO or other gases are detected leaking into your home for more than 15 minutes.
If you are purchasing an open-flued gas heater, ensure that the appliance complies with the latest Australian Standards. These heaters come equipped with safety shutdown mechanisms as part of their certification. Always:
- Verify the certification number with your supplier.
- Consider switching to room-sealed gas heaters, which draw air from outside the home, avoiding ventilation risks.
Flueless Heaters: Exercise Extreme Caution
Unlike flued gas heaters, flueless gas heaters release combustion gases directly into the room, significantly increasing the risk of dangerous CO exposure. In Victoria, strict restrictions apply to the use and installation of flueless heaters:
- Flueless heaters operating on natural gas or LPG are generally not permitted indoors.
- If room ventilation is inadequate, flueless appliances can make your home unsafe and uncomfortable.
Consult a licensed gas fitter before purchasing or installing a flueless gas heater.
The Importance of Replacing Old Heaters
If your heater is outdated, has not been serviced in years, or has developed problems like flame irregularities or reduced heating output, consider replacing it with:
- A room-sealed gas heater, which is safer and operates more efficiently in modern homes.
- A high-efficiency reverse cycle air conditioner or split system, which is an affordable electric alternative offering both heating and cooling.
The Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program or other state-led initiatives may offer rebates and discounts for appliance upgrades, making it easier for families to transition to safer, energy-efficient solutions.
A Safer Winter for All
The Victorian Government has taken proactive steps to improve household safety with new gas heater standards and CO risk awareness. However, your family’s safety ultimately starts with proper appliance use, regular servicing, and being vigilant about ventilation and warning signs of CO poisoning.
As you prepare to keep your home warm this winter, make safety a priority: schedule a gas heater service, check for safety alerts on older models, and take small steps like installing a CO alarm or improving ventilation. Together, these actions can save lives, protect your health, and ensure that everyone can enjoy a comfortable and safe home during the colder months.
