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There are restrictions on the types of unflued gas space heaters that can be installed in South Australian homes.
Before buying an unflued gas space heater, speak to a licensed gas fitter to make sure it’s appropriate for the room and you have adequate ventilation.
New space heaters
Less than 18 MJ/h
Portable unflued gas space heaters with a capacity of less than 18 MJ/h can be installed in South Australia, regardless of fuel type - LPG or natural gas.
More than 18MJ/h
The system must have additional safety features when its maximum gas consumption is more than 18MJ/h. The below are approved for use in South Australia.
Appliance (LP gas only) | Model | Capacity (MJ/h) |
|---|---|---|
Galaxie (Rinnai) | REH 252 | 25MJ/h |
Avenger (Rinnai) | RCE 670TRE | 25MJ/h |
Avenger (Rinnai) | RCE 671TR | 25MJ/h |
Heritage and outdated gas space heaters
Vulcan Heritage or Pyrox Heritage gas space heaters can pose significant safety risks. They are old technology that is not compatible with many new or renovated homes having less natural ventilation.
Deadly levels of carbon monoxide (CO) from the heater can be drawn into living areas of a home if:
- the house is well sealed
- it’s a new or renovated home, which has less natural ventilation.
The high levels of CO happen if the heater is on at the same time as a kitchen or bathroom exhaust fan. The risk is increased if the heater hasn’t been regularly serviced.
Image Pyrox branding and the ‘Heritage’ marking on the front in the lower left hand corner of the heater
Image - Vulcan branding and the ‘Heritage’ marking on the front in the lower left hand corner of the heater.
Safety tests
You should stop using these space heaters until they have been tested by a qualified gasfitter. They will need to check the flue and for adequate ventilation.
Safety tests by manufacturer
Climate Technologies will test every home with a Vulcan or Pyrox heritage heater and advise you based on the test results. They will also contribute to any resulting costs.
- Call Climate Technologies on (03) 8795 2462 to arrange for a qualified gasfitter to test the heater and how it has been installed.
- People living in public housing (Housing SA clients) with a Pyrox of Vulcan heritage gas heater, call 131 288 to arrange to test the heaters.
Contact the manufacturer and provide model details if you have an old gas space heater (different brand), and would like to have it checked. They will be able to tell you if your heater is room sealed or open flued. If you can’t get in contact with the manufacturer, contact a qualified gas fitter.
Space heaters should be serviced every 2 years.
