Gas Heating Safety

Carbon Monoxide alarms can be interconnected with a smoke alarm system

Signs and Symptoms: Gas Leak Risks

Are your gas-powered appliances, heating or hot water service old?
Were they serviced a long time ago?
Have they been performing intermittently?
Any of your gas appliances installed by an unlicensed tradesman?

Increased Heating equals Increased Danger

Any gas appliance can put you at risk of Carbon Monoxide poisoning. Every year in Australia, 364 people are hospitalised due to dangerous exposure to Carbon Monoxide. South Australia already has more per capita deaths from the gas than any state.

Just because your heater is flued, doesn’t mean you’re protected. The tragic deaths of Tyler & Chase Robinson happened as a result of a flued but faulty gas heater. The Foundation named after the boys to promote awareness of the dangers of carbon monoxide has stated the best thing you can do to protect you and your family is to have your gas systems regularly serviced and tested by a licensed gas fitter.

Q: What are the indications my appliance could produce carbon monoxide?

A: Carbon Monoxide is deadly because you can’t see or smell it, although there are signs that you may be at risk. If you notice black marks or discolouration on your gas appliance or flue, call a licensed gas technician immediately.

If the flames are no longer blue or are excessively large, this means there is incomplete combustion and a high chance of carbon monoxide. Dust or debris around the flue pipe is also a warning sign of blockages.

Worrying Gas Safety Risks

Out of the 960 gas installations audited by the Office of the Technical Regulator, 66 received warnings about significant compliance issues or dangerous work. Considering that an estimated 79,000 residential and light commercial gas installation jobs were completed in Adelaide last year, hundreds could have significant safety issues.

You should always ensure you use a professional gas fitter, with an up-to-date licence and insist they provide you with a Certificate of Compliance with every job.