Why get my gas appliance checked?
Annual maintenance of your boiler is required. A regularly maintained boiler uses less energy and performs optimally for a longer period.
Is natural gas dangerous?Natural gas is not toxic: in its natural state, it doesn’t contain carbon monoxide. Its combustion, much like human respiration, only releases water vapour and carbon dioxide. Its energy efficiency is at the top of all fossil fuels. In open air, the danger of explosion is very low: gas leaking, even in large quantity, can only catch fire. Natural gas is not toxic. Asphyxia from natural gas is only seen in books! However, a deliberately induced leak could, under strict conditions such as proportion, source temperature, etc., cause an explosion. Since natural gas is lighter than air, it dissipates quickly in open air.
What procedures should be followed if gas leaks?
If you notice a leak, follow these simple rules:Open all windows!Shut off all gas valves directing handles perpendicular to the pipes.
Avoid all risks of sparks: matches, doorbells, light switches, phones, elevators…Dial 911
What is carbon monoxide?
Carbon Monoxide is produced during the incomplete combustion of natural gas (as well as of wood, coal, propane, fuel, oil, gasoline and diesel). To reduce poisoning risks, apply a few important rules: ensure your air vents are never obstructed because when your appliances are running and lack air, they release carbon monoxide. Have your chimney checked annually as clogging prevents flue gas from exiting. Poor combustion can draw carbon monoxide back into the room. Have your heating and hot water appliances checked and maintained annually by a certified professional. A clogged or incorrectly set appliance can produce carbon monoxide when running. Always follow manufacturer’s instructions; for example, do not use radiant gas burners for long periods. And never use your stove as a heating source since it is not its purpose!
How to optimize my installation?
A system that performs better results in more comfort and increased safety while it is more environmentally friendly and allows you to save. In the past few years, gas appliances have evolved greatly in regards to their reliability, technology, power, safety, savings and aesthetics. Replacing an old appliance with allow you to reduce your consumption.
How does a condensing heater unit work?
A condensing heater unit recuperates some of the heat contained in water vapour from combustion gases in the heat exchanger. This system improves and increases boiler efficiency by 20% on average compared to a standard boiler. It can be adapted to any type of installation. The condensing boiler significantly reduces energy consumption (compared to older models), is more respectful of the environment and contributes to sustainable development with cleaner burning gases and less carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxide released in the atmosphere.
Why does the flame of my boiler change colour?
A balanced natural gas and air mixture combustion should create a blue flame. This colour means the combustion is complete. A yellow or orange flame means there is combustion of other particles. Tip: get your boiler serviced at least once per year to reduce your gas consumption.
How to recognize gas smell?
Gas is odourless and colourless. Its peculiar rotten egg smell comes from Mercaptan, which is added to gas in order to be able to detect leaks.
Using a barbecue
Never use a barbecue in your home, cottage or garage. Besides the control valves located inside the barbecue structure, a gas-operating barbecue must be equipped with a shutoff valve. To prevent leakage, this valve must be turned off after each use of the barbecue.