6 Signs Your Gas Heater is in Need of Repair

The last thing you need is a faulty gas heater in the middle of a cold winter’s day. So, how do you ensure that your gas heater is always operating optimally? Rather, how do you know whether your heater needs replacement or is simply in need of ducted heating service? 

One thing is for certain, when the advantages associated with installing a new gas heater outweigh the cost of repairs, replacing the unit is something of a no-brainer. 

Fortunately for you, most electrical appliances give off warnings before they entirely shut down. However, if you’re no plumbing expert, it’s easy to overlook these warning signs until it’s too late. But we’re here to help you identify any problems in time so that you conduct the necessary ducted heated repairs.

1. Strange Sounds Coming from Your Heater

Generally, gas heaters operate quietly. The moment heating up your home becomes a noisy affair, it’s time to investigate your appliance. Besides, given the way such banging or whining sounds interfere with your serenity, we’re certain we don’t have to tell you twice to call in a professional plumber.

Such noises usually occur when your gas heater is either faulty, old or is not utilised to its fullest potential. A qualified contractor will investigate and correct the problem right away.

2. Has Your Gas Usage Skyrocketed?

It’s no secret that operating a heating system during a cold winter can be rather expensive. But a faulty gas heater may cause your gas usage to skyrocket even further. 

A common reason behind this frustrating scenario is a malfunctioning gas heater. Your heater may not be operating efficiently. As a result, it may be running for longer to generate the same level of warmth which it did in the past. 

Ascertain your past gas usage patterns. If you feel that they haven’t changed much over the last couple of months, then this is a strong indication that your heater needs urgent attention. No need to speculate, a qualified professional can diagnose the root problem and recommend the necessary action plan.

3. Yellow Pilot Light

Most old gas heaters feature a pilot light which shows how your heater is utilising gas. When the unit is operating optimally and the correct balance of gases being produced, this pilot light is blue.

If your pilot light changes from blue to yellow, it means that your gas heater isn’t operating properly. A yellow light indicates that there’s a problem with your heater’s gas combination and is usually a sign of incomplete combustion. Alternatively, this could also be an indication that your heater is producing problem gases such as carbon monoxide.

The minute you notice the pilot light changing colour, call in a specialist.

4. Signs of Carbon Monoxide

To expand on the previous section, you don’t need to speculate if indeed your gas heater is producing carbon monoxide. Thankfully, you don’t need to be a scientist or HVAC specialist to know that carbon monoxide has invaded your space.

Granted, carbon monoxide is colourless and odourless, so you won’t really see its emission from your heater. However, if you or any of your family members are constantly feeling nauseous, experiencing frequent headaches or breathing-related problems then something is amiss. 

This usually means that the air quality is questionable, and the chances are that carbon monoxide is on the loose. When this happens, it’s time to call in the professionals—and quickly.

5. Increased Humidity in the Room

A malfunctioning gas heater may be the cause behind excessive humidity in a room. If you notice condensation on your windows, call in a professional to double check your gas heater.

In addition, if you notice rusted or corroded vent pipes it means that there is excess humidity in the room and it’s time to get your heater checked out.

6. A Cold Room

A cold room while your heater is running is definitely a cause for concern. Clearly the gas heater isn’t doing its job properly. 

Other scenarios could be if certain parts of the room are chilly or if you notice ice forming on your roof. This means that the heater is failing to heat up the entire room effectively and needs to be investigated.

Final Words 

Addressing any of the signs mentioned above will ensure that your gas heater is running optimally. We can’t overemphasise the need to engage the services of a specialist to handle such inspections accurately and thoroughly. 

However, bear in mind that gas heaters generally have a lifespan of approximately 15 years. The lifespan of each unit will vary depending on how and where you use it. But, if you find that you’ve had to repair your gas heater twice in the last two years, then maybe it’s time to replace the unit altogether.

Did you find these tips helpful? Let us know in the comments section down below.