Heater Maintenance 101: Keep Your Home Warm and Cozy All Winter Long
Advantages of Consistent Heater Maintenance
Winter's chill is upon us, and there's nothing quite like cozying up in your warm home on a frosty night. But, before you settle in for the season, it's crucial to ensure your heating system is in tip-top shape. Here's a rundown on why regular heater servicing is essential for your wallet, health, and home's comfort.
Heater Servicing: The Ultimate Winter Prep Task
From puffer jackets to beanies, autumn and winter bring on a wardrobe change for many Aussies. But for your heater, the shift in seasons means months of inactivity followed by overuse when the cold hits. No wonder emergency heater repairs become more common! In 2024 alone, RACV Emergency Home Assist handled over 4,000 such call outs, with a sharp increase in June and July – Victoria's coldest months.
Why the sudden surge? Issues such as power faults, overheating, poor gas pressure, and malfunctioning fans are common culprits. But the good news? Regular heater servicing can help ward off these headaches and keep your home cozy and warm all winter long.
The Perks of Regular Heater Servicing
Improve Air Quality and Safety
An unserviced heater, neglected for years, can emit dirty air filled with dust, mold, and bacteria. A professional heater service ensures a thorough cleaning of major parts, improving air quality, and keeping your loved ones safe.
"Regular heater servicing ensures the major parts are thoroughly cleaned," says RACV Trades Senior Product Manager, Nathan Tayeh, "improving the air quality in your home and the safety of those inside it." Gas heaters, in particular, should be serviced every two years, with carbon monoxide levels checked to ensure safety.
Carbon monoxide leaks are silent and odorless, posing a significant risk to your health. They can cause symptoms like dizziness and nausea in your household. Rental properties with gas heaters must undergo a gas safety check every two years to prevent such dangers.
Reduce Running Costs and Boost Energy Efficiency
Heating your home is a significant contributor to energy bills, with costs varying based on the size of rooms and your heating system. According to Sustainability Victoria, the annual running costs for heating a medium-sized home (160sqm) can range from around $1,200 for a multi-split reverse-cycle air conditioner system to over $2,700 for ducted gas heating.
Inefficient heaters can drive up these costs, making regular servicing a smart investment. During a service, a technician checks and optimizes the airflow, thermostat calibration, inspects the ductwork, and cleans/replaces filters to create an efficient heating unit that minimizes energy consumption.
Increase Your Heater's Lifespan
The longevity of your heater depends on many factors, one of which is regular maintenance. Dust, weather events, and other external factors can affect your heater's performance and lifespan.
A professional heater technician examines the inner components of your heating system during a routine service, identifying hidden issues and potential problems that could become costly over time. Although most manufacturers suggest 15-20 years as the lifespan for a new heater system, this can be shortened if regular servicing is neglected.
With regular maintenance, you can extend your heater's lifespan, preventing premature replacements and saving money in the long run.
When Should You Service Your Heater?
To avoid heating malfunctions during the coldest months, aim to have your heater serviced before winter hits. If you rely on reverse-cycle split-system air conditioners for heating, give especial attention to cleaning filters during the peak usage period – generally around June to August.
How Often Should You Service Your Heater?
The frequency of servicing depends on the type of heater you have.
- Gas Heaters – These systems should be serviced annually if they are old or frequently used, and every two years otherwise.
- Ducted Heaters – Similar to gas heaters, ducted heating systems should be serviced annually if they are old or frequently used, and every two years otherwise.
- Split-System Heaters – While specific service intervals aren't mentioned, split-system heaters, like other heating systems, benefit from regular maintenance to ensure efficiency and prevent breakdowns. A yearly check before the heating season can be beneficial.
Pro Tips to Maintain Your Heater's Performance
- Regular Filter Cleaning – Clean or replace filters every three months to maintain efficiency and reduce energy bills.
- Professional Servicing – Annual or biennial servicing by certified technicians is recommended to ensure safety, efficiency, and early detection of potential issues.
A well-maintained heater can contribute to a healthier and safer lifestyle by reducing the emission of dirty air and preventing carbon monoxide leaks. Regular heater servicing also helps in minimizing energy costs and increasing the lifespan of your heating system. Furthermore, addressing heater maintenance ahead of winter ensures optimal performance and fewer repair needs during the coldest months. To ensure the best results, clean filters regularly and schedule annual or biennial services with professional technicians.
