Why you should be making sure your gas heater service includes a negative pressure test!

Over the last decade a lot of focus has been put on sealing drafts around the home, and with the improved technology of extraction fans they are extracting even better than before, so whats the catch?

All that air that's being taken out of the home must come from somewhere right? if the amount of air being extracted is more than whats naturally or mechanically being allowed back into the home it can suffer from negative pressure, now why is this a problem? Read below to find out.

Proper ventilation is crucial for the safe operation of gas heaters. Negative air pressure or inadequate ventilation can lead to back drafting, where combustion gases are drawn back into the living space instead of being expelled outside.

Meaning your heater may pass a carbon monoxide test without exhaust fans on, but then during operation say while someone's having a shower or you are cooking dinner it could be letting dangerous flue gases into your home!

Not only does a negative pressure test ensure flue gases aren't entering your home it also contributes to the efficient operation of the gas heater, which can lower energy consumption and reduce utility bills. Proper airflow ensures that the heater doesn’t have to work harder than necessary to maintain the desired temperature.

For more information on negative pressure testing and which heaters should be tested, please see a Energy safe Victoria video below.