- Carbon monoxide hazards from faulty or incorrectly used gas appliances
- Gas heaters should be regularly serviced by a licensed gas fitter
- Ensure adequate ventilation and be aware of carbon monoxide symptoms
As the cooler weather sets in, WA’s energy safety regulator is urging Western Australians to stay safe from carbon monoxide hazards by ensuring their gas heaters are recently serviced and used correctly this winter.
Building and Energy says gas appliances should be serviced by a licensed gas fitter at least every two years – or annually if the equipment is more than 10 years old.
“Faulty, poorly maintained or misused gas equipment can cause a build-up of potentially lethal carbon monoxide gas,” WA’s Director of Energy Safety, Peter Stewart, said.
“Carbon monoxide is known as the ‘silent killer’ because it is an invisible, odourless and tasteless gas, so you may not recognise the hazard immediately.
“This is a good time of year to check your gas heaters as you may be bringing appliances out of storage or using them for the first time in months.”
Air filters, airways, fans and burners can become blocked by lint and dust while gas heaters are in storage over the warmer months. This can cause overheating and burner problems that produce carbon monoxide.
“If it’s been more than two years since your gas heater was serviced, or if it’s showing signs such as discolouration or difficulty relighting, contact a licensed gas fitter,” Mr Stewart said.
“A licensed gas fitter can check appliances for blockages, overheating or burner problems. They can also look at whether a room has adequate ventilation.
“A room with a bayonet socket for a gas space heater should have two permanent and unobstructed ventilation openings – one close to the floor, the other close to the ceiling.
“Don’t use exhaust fans or kitchen rangehoods at the same time as an open-flued heater because this can draw carbon monoxide into living spaces.”
Outdoor gas appliances (such as patio heaters or barbecues) should never be used indoors or areas surrounded by patio blinds or other enclosures.
Mr Stewart urged users of gas equipment to be aware of warning signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, which range from flu-like symptoms, such as headaches, weakness, fatigue and nausea, through to vomiting, seizures and collapse.
“Try to get into the open air and seek medical attention immediately” he said.
“It’s important to emphasise that gas appliances are safe if they are in good working order, used correctly and in a well-ventilated area.”
For other gas safety tips, visit demirs.wa.gov.au/gas-safety-home or to search for a licensed gas fitter.
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Media contact: BEmedia@demirs.wa.gov.au
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