The benefits of a regular heater service: winter heating maintenance guide

Improve household safety

Regular servicing helps confirm your heating system is safe for your household. Faulty wiring, overheating components or dust accumulation can create electrical hazards or increase fire risk.

Poorly maintained gas heaters could also lead to a carbon monoxide leak. This colourless, odourless gas can be dangerous or even fatal in high concentrations.

"If you have a gas heater, it is recommended it's serviced every two years, which includes checking carbon monoxide levels," says RACV Trades Senior Product Manager Nathan Tayeh.

Rental properties with a gas heater (or other gas appliances) must have a gas safety check carried out every two years. The rental provider must arrange and pay for this check, which must be completed by a licensed gas fitter.

Lower your energy bills

Heating can account for a significant portion of winter energy use, especially in colder parts of Victoria.

A heater that hasn't been serviced may need to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. Dirty filters, clogged ducts or worn components can reduce efficiency and increase energy consumption.

Tayeh says running costs are likely to increase if your heater is working less efficiently.

"During a service, a technician may test airflow, calibrate the thermostat, inspect ductwork and clean or replace the air filter – all of which contribute to more efficiency and less energy consumption," he says.

An efficient heater can also warm your home more quickly and evenly.

More: How to save money while staying warm this winter

Reduce the risk of breakdowns

A heater breakdown is rarely convenient in winter - especially cold winter nights or busy holiday periods when repair services may be in high demand.

Routine servicing can help identify small issues early - such as worn belts, damaged wiring, failing motors or blocked filters - before they cause a system failure.

Regular servicing may also help protect your warranty, as some heating systems require ongoing maintenance to remain covered.

Extend the lifespan of your heater

Heating systems are a significant investment, so it makes sense to look after them.

Over time, dirt build-up, neglected filters and overworked components can accelarate wear and shorten the life of the system.

Regular servicing reduces strain and can extend your heater's lifespan, delaying an expensive replacement.

Manufacturers often cite a 15 to 20 year lifespan, but only when the system is maintained to their recommendations. Without regular servicing, it may fail earlier – potentially bringing forward the cost of replacement.

Improve heating performance and comfort

If your heater struggles to warm certain rooms, produces uneven temperatures or takes longer to heat your home, servicing may help restore performance.

A technician may clean or replace filters, check thermostats and airflow, and inspect ductwork for leaks or blockages.

A well-maintained heater can provide more consistent warmth and better indoor comfort during winter.

Servicing may also reduce rattles or other unusual noises caused by loose or worn components.

Improve indoor air quality

Heating systems can accumulate dust, dirt, mould, bacteria, pet hair and other allergens over time. When the heater runs, these particles may circulate through the home.

Dirty filters and ducts can reduce indoor air quality, particularly for people with allergies, asthma or respiratory sensitivities.

Regular servicing typically includes cleaning or replacing filters and checking ventilation, which can reduce airborne dust.

"A regular heater service will ensure the major parts are thoroughly cleaned, improving the air quality in your home," says Tayeh.

More: How to test and improve the indoor air quality in your home

What happens during a heater service?

The exact process will depend on the type of heater, but a professional service may include:

• inspecting components for wear or damage
• cleaning filters, burners and fans
• testing thermostat accuracy
• checking airflow and ventilation
• inspecting electrical connections
• testing for carbon monoxide leaks in gas heaters
• checking refrigerant levels in reverse-cycle systems
• assessing ductwork and vents.

Technicians may recommend repairs or replacement parts if issues are identified.

"A technician will examine the inner components during a routine service and flag problems before they become too costly to fix," Tayeh says.

How often should you service your heater?

Most heaters should be services every one to two years, depending on the system type and how heavily it's used.

Gas heaters and ducted heating systems are generally services at least once every two years. Consider servicing it annually if your gas or ducted system is old or used heavily. 

Many air conditioner manufacturers recommend an annual service.  

Book a service before winter, if you can, as heating technicians can become busy during colder months.