Using LPG Cabinet Heaters Safely
[ Last Updated 7 June 2007 ]
Sorry to say, summer is on the way out. Soon the days will get shorter and colder. LPG cabinet heaters are a popular and efficient appliance used in many homes to provide warmth in autumn and winter. But sadly, each year a number of New Zealanders are hurt and sometimes lose their homes in accidents caused by the unsafe use or inadequate maintenance of these heaters.
If you have a LPG cabinet heater, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs’ Energy Safety Service have some simple safety tips to keep you warm and safe:
Check heater equipment regularly and have it serviced
Now is a good time to check that your heater is ready for winter. Your LPG cabinet heater should be serviced every 12 months. Take the cylinder in to be serviced as well as the heater. Make sure equipment such as the cylinder adapter, rubber seals, heater regulator and flexible hose are in good condition. If you find a fault, don't try and fix it yourself. Check in the Yellow Pages under "Gas Appliances" for servicing and repairs.
Check the connections for leaks
A good test is to spread a solution of water and dishwashing liquid on the connections each time you reconnect your heater after refilling your cylinder. If bubbles appear, or there are visible cracks on the flexible hose, LPG is leaking. Contact your LPG service agent immediately and do not use your heater until it has been checked.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions
Read the instructions supplied with your LPG cabinet heater and follow them carefully.
Make sure your heater is well ventilated
Portable gas heaters such as LPG cabinet heaters and unflued space heaters need special care. Ensure that there is adequate ventilation by always keeping a window open when these heaters are in use. Never use them in a bathroom, bedroom or confined space such as in a caravan.
Keep your heater away from flammable materials
Always keep plenty of space between your heaters (LPG, gas and electric) and furniture. Keep heaters well away from flammable materials such as curtains. Never hang clothes on heaters to dry – this is a common cause of fires.
Keep children safe
Ensure children are well-supervised around LPG cabinet heaters. Safety guards are available to stop them getting too close. Only use safety guards that are designed for use with LPG cabinet heaters. Be careful that children don’t ‘post’ papers or other flammable materials into the heater, regardless of whether it is off or on.
Back to Top