Don't Be Afraid of Gas Heating

In recent years, due to gas accidents that have generated much discussion, some people have started to fear gas heating and avoid apartments and houses with such heating.

In reality, gas heating is one of the safest and also ecologically cleanest heat sources. Accidents have been caused primarily by unprofessional installation and misuse of equipment. The problem can also be caused by repairs during which ventilation openings are closed, leaving the flue gas nowhere to go.

When using modern gas boilers, flue gas leakage is not possible if safety rules are strictly followed during equipment installation and use, and the work is performed by specialists with appropriate qualifications. Additionally, modern gas equipment is equipped with sensitive sensors and in case of even the slightest risk, the device automatically shuts down.

Recommendations for those buying and owning a home with gas heating:

• When buying a new home, definitely prefer companies with a verified background so that construction work is performed professionally, because the openings and ducts necessary for gas equipment to function and the ventilation system are built by builders, not by technicians installing gas equipment.
• Maintenance and inspection of existing gas equipment should be done at least once a year. Definitely choose a company that has a competency certificate issued by a certification authority and the specialist performing the work has a competency certificate. Regular maintenance of the equipment ensures its safe and efficient operation, economy, and longevity.
• If you plan to renovate your home, definitely coordinate the building project with the relevant authorities, as the work often changes air circulation in the room. For example, replacing a bathroom door or installing a new extractor hood in the kitchen changes the operating environment of the gas equipment, so it is worth consulting specialists even when making these simpler modifications.
• Make sure that your home's ventilation works correctly. For gas equipment to work safely and correctly, air exchange must be ensured in the room.
• To ensure peace of mind on a daily basis, install a carbon monoxide detector as an additional safety measure. Since 2018, a carbon monoxide detector has been mandatory in Estonia in all residential spaces where a flue-connected gas appliance is located.

You can find additional information about gas safety on the website of the Consumer Protection and Technical Supervision Authority. When ordering work, also inquire there about companies that have the necessary licenses to perform such work. Definitely avoid doing gas work yourself or entrusting it to some acquaintance "handyman."

Article source: Uus Maa Real Estate Office