According to the metrological calendar autumn has arrived. The warm summer days that we’ve become accustomed to have made a sharp exit. The schools return, suntans fade, and the trees start their yearly voyage from green to reds and brown….
Across the UK hundreds of thousands of gas fires ignite into life in September. The dancing flames make a return after months of silence. But is it wise to switch your gas fire on, without any further consideration?
Probably not….
Having your gas fire checked in the autumn is a very smart idea. Here is why:
- Your gas fire may have developed a fault over the summer
- There could be congestion in your chimney (such as birds that have nested over the summer)
- A blockage in any part of the system could have manifested or become worse after months of inactivity
- Seals and gaskets can fail through lack of use
The list goes on….
Safety Check – Is the least you can do:
A safety check is the least you can/should do when you start using your fire again. Below are a list of things, which are usually checked with a gas fire:
- Is it correctly set and adjusted to ensure the gas is burning correctly
- Is it of a type suitable for the room in which it is located
- Is it physically stable, securely fitted and properly connected to the gas pipework
- Is there an adequate and permanent air supply suitable for the appliance type installed
- Are the flues or chimneys operating correctly
- Are all safety devices function correctly
A safety check will only list things, which need servicing – a review from a professional. After a safety check, a service will usually follow if any work is needed.
Gas fire service:
- If appropriate, an analysis of the combustion exhaust gases to ensure the appliance is burning the gas safely
- A check of the condition of the appliance including (but not limited to): the effectiveness of any seals, gaskets, the cleanliness of heat exchangers etc. and checking for any signs of heat or other distress
After the engineers visit:
After an engineer has worked on your appliance, they may issue you with a report outlining the checks they have done. This may be a Gas Safety Record, depending on what work they have done. However, please note it’s not a legal requirement for this to be issued. It’s probably best to check with the business beforehand what documentation they will provide. You can visit GAS SAFE Gas Safety Record for more information.
