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Safety Guidelines for Gas Heaters

by | Jul 14, 2021 | Articles and Information

SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR HOMEOWNERS WITH GAS HEATERS

At this time of the year when we experience the cold winter in the air, many of us reach for the ignition switch on our gas heaters. However, it is essential to first take the time to make sure that we know our safety tips and that our gas heaters are safe to use. Gas heaters are normally safe but an unsafe heater could be a fire hazard or produce dangerous carbon monoxide. It is recommended that the heater is serviced regularly by a qualified gas technician, in line with the instructions provided by the manufacturer.

 

Safety guidelines to consider when using gas heaters this winter:

  • Always turn your heater off before going to bed or leaving your home.
  • Make sure all the components like the heater, regulator, and hose connectors of your unit are well-maintained.
  • Do not use aerosols or flammable cleaning liquids or sprays close to the heater.
  • Avoid sitting or standing too close to your heater, thereby avoiding gas burns.
  • Do not use outdoor gas heaters indoors. Outdoor gas heaters may create carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide can make you dizzy, and give you headaches or flu-like symptoms, and extended exposure can be fatal.
  • Always ensure that the room in use is well-ventilated. Carbon monoxide is a colourless and odourless gas that can go completely unnoticed yet cause serious illness or, in severe cases, death due to poisoning.
  • Never place clothes or other items like towels over your heater. Remember that this is dangerous as a fire, and can start without anyone noticing.
  • Do not move your unit while it is in use. First, turn it off and wait for it cools down a little before moving it around.
  • Keep children and pets away from gas heaters.
  • Keep gas heaters at least one meter away from all flammable objects including furniture, curtains, books, and boxes.

 

What to do if you smell gas in your home

  • Do not light flames or create sparks.
  • Don’t operate light switches, appliances, or telephones.
  • Leave the area with the doors and windows wide open.
  • Shut off the gas at the gas bottle valve.
  • Don’t turn the gas back on until it has been checked by a qualified gas technician.
  • Do not return to your home until the gas has had time to dissipate.
  • Remember that LPG is heavier than air and can accumulate in low areas.
  • Get your system checked by your local qualified gas installer.