As winter draws near, gas heating is a comfortable, quick and convenient way to keep your home cosy and warm.

Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers reminds homeowners about the importance of household checks on gas appliances for your personal health and safety.

It’s a smart move to have all your gas appliances serviced regularly, ideally once a year.

This is particularly important for portable gas heaters, such as LPG cabinet heaters. If they are faulty or poorly maintained, they can emit toxic carbon monoxide. They also need enough air to operate, so never use in a small space like a bedroom, bathroom or cabin.

Make sure you hire an authorised gasfitter to carry out your gas servicing. Not only is it illegal and dangerous for anyone else to do the servicing, but you could also risk invalidating your home insurance.

Greg Wallace, CEO of Master Plumbers, advises householders to keep records of when their appliances were last serviced and to check the manufacturer's recommendations for specific appliances.

Once your gas appliance has been serviced and deemed safe to use, your qualified gasfitter will provide you with a gas safety certificate for your records.

If you’re building a new home and considering your heating options, a Master Plumber or Master Gasfitter can offer ideas tailored to your home and budget.

Gas-fired heating is a popular choice for several reasons. It provides fast, controllable heat. Gas heaters endorsed by Sensitive Choice of the Asthma Foundation can also deliver improved air quality, making breathing easier for those with allergies and asthma.

Other benefits of gas heating include quick room heating, cost-effectiveness compared to electric heating, and the absence of firewood storage or chimney cleaning.

A gas fire also creates a cosy ambiance, provides higher heat output to heat larger areas quickly, and operates independently of outdoor temperatures.

If you have concerns about gas installations or appliances in your home at any time, contact an authorised gasfitter to ensure they are functioning correctly and in good repair. Adequate ventilation is also crucial for gas appliances, so take this opportunity to have your appliances checked to ensure airflow vents are clean and working as intended.

Gas remains a competitive energy source for over 500,000 New Zealanders, offering an attractive alternative to electricity for hot water and home heating.

As we move into a low-emissions future, hydrogen gas and biogas are already being developed and trialled here in New Zealand and overseas, so you can continue to enjoy the benefits of gas. Check out the Future Sure website to find out more: futuresure.co.nz

Rest assured that natural gas and LPG will continue to be readily available for existing homes and businesses in New Zealand for many years to come.

When it comes to servicing your gas appliances, trust the expertise of a Master Gasfitter. Use the Master Plumbers search tool to find the nearest professional to assist you.