How servicing your gas heater could help reduce your energy bills

Why Professional Gas Heater Servicing Matters

Professional gas heater servicing ensures your appliance continues to meet manufacturer specifications and Australian safety standards. Licensed technicians have specialised training to identify potential issues before they become safety concerns or costly repairs. In Victoria, Energy Safe Victoria advises that gas appliances should be serviced by a licensed gas fitter in line with relevant Australian Standards such as AS 4575 for Type A gas appliance servicing. Only licensed gas fitters can legally service internal components and, where required, issue a certificate of compliance.

What happens during professional servicing?  

A technician will clean and adjust the burners for consistent heat, calibrate the thermostat to prevent overworking, and ensure vents and airflow are unobstructed. This comprehensive approach supports optimal performance while addressing your home's specific heating needs. Professional servicing also includes critical safety checks that homeowners cannot perform safely or legally - including internal component inspection, gas pressure testing, and carbon monoxide emission testing using calibrated equipment.

How servicing helps you save on energy costs

Cleaning burners and fans, checking gas pressure, and confirming ventilation can help the appliance run as intended. That may reduce unnecessary energy use and improve comfort at the same thermostat setting. Actual energy outcomes depend on home size, insulation and usage patterns. For more ways to keep winter bills under control, see AGN’s guide: How to avoid bill shock during winter. 

According to Energy Victoria, heating accounts for around one third of a typical home’s energy costs. Proper maintenance can help ensure your heater operates as designed by the manufacturer. Actual energy usage depends on various factors including home size, insulation, and usage patterns. See Energy Victoria’s guidance on heating and cooling discounts.

Extend the Lifespan of Your Gas Heater

Servicing removes soot and build-up that can corrode internal parts over time. It also picks up early warning signs such as a weak pilot light or a corroded heat exchanger before they become expensive problems. Some manufacturers may require regular servicing as a condition of warranty.

Safety First

Servicing gives you confidence your heater is running as it should. A licensed technician will check for leaks, test for carbon monoxide, make sure components and wiring are in good condition, and confirm ventilation is adequate for safe operation. It’s a practical step to ensure your heater is operating safely before the colder months begin. Read Energy Safe Victoria’s advice: Is your gas heater safe? and Heating your home with gas. If you ever smell gas or suspect a leak, follow our guide to gas leaks and emergencies.

Gas Heater Service Checklist

✓ Book a licensed gas fitter (check state regulator licensing)
✓ Clear area around heater of dust, debris, and obstructions
✓ Keep recent gas bills handy for before/after usage comparison
✓ Note any unusual sounds, smells, or performance issues to report
✓ Check manufacturer's warranty and service requirements
✓ Ask technician about your specific heater's maintenance needs
✓ Request certificate of compliance if work is required

Rebates available for heating upgrades

AGN offers rebates and promotions in select states. Offers change periodically; check your state page for current details and terms. Current offers include cash-back incentives for selected energy-efficient gas appliances in South Australia and select areas of New South Wales and Queensland. Correct at publication: September 2025.

For more information, visit our rebates and promotions page (select your state to see current offers and T&C) or call 1300 001 001 – option 7. Some local promotions may also support safety checks, so it’s worth checking your state’s page regularly.

How often should you service your gas heater

• Every two years is a good rule of thumb and is mandatory for rental properties in Victoria.
• Your service technician may recommend annual servicing under certain conditions.

Start saving on your gas bill

A regular service can help improve safety, reduce energy costs, and extend the life of your heater. No matter the time of year, getting your heater checked ensures it's ready for use whenever temperatures drop or for occasional chilly nights. With technicians generally more available outside of peak seasonal demand, it's a smart move to service your gas heater before issues arise. If you’ve noticed your heater working harder than usual, or it’s been over two years since your last service, don’t delay. Book a local gas appliance fitter today.  

Talk to us

• Questions or feedback about this article, use our Contact AGN page and we will get back to you.
  
  

All information provided in this article was correct at the time of publishing (September 2025)