Gas Ducted Heating Care Tips for Canberra Homeowners

But just like any other system that gets regular use, it needs the right care to keep working well. By taking a few simple steps, homeowners can avoid cold spots, weaker airflow, and rising energy use, while keeping their homes cosy during the chilliest time of the year.

Late August is a good time to check in on your system, especially as winter begins to wind down. You want everything running well now, after a season of heavy use. Giving your unit some attention helps extend its life and keeps it heating properly through the last stretch of cold weather. It also sets you up for smoother use when you turn it back on next winter.

Regular Cleaning And Filter Replacement
Even though your gas ducted heater is mostly out of sight, it needs a bit of regular care. Dirt, dust, and pet hair can build up in the filters and vents over time. This makes your unit work harder than it should, which can lead to slower performance and bigger energy bills. Clean filters help the system breathe better and heat more evenly.

For homes in Canberra, where heaters run heavily through June, July and August, filters should be checked at least once every couple of months during these colder periods. Here’s a basic step-by-step to keep you on track:

1. Turn off the power to the system before opening anything.

2. Locate the filter section, usually found near the return air grille.

3. Remove the filter gently and inspect it for dust or debris.

4. If it’s a reusable filter, use a vacuum to clean away dirt or rinse lightly with warm water and let it dry.

5. For disposable filters, replace them with a new one that matches your system’s size.

6. Pop the filter back into place, making sure it fits in the correct direction.

7. Turn the power back on and test the unit.

Cleaning filters takes just a few minutes but can stop small issues from becoming larger problems later on. By keeping the air flowing easily, your system doesn’t have to work overtime, especially when you really need it.

Inspecting And Sealing Ductwork
Even if your heater is running properly, warm air won’t reach every room if ductwork is damaged or has gaps. Over time, joints can shift or seals may wear out, especially in older homes common around Canberra. That means warm air could be leaking into roof spaces or beneath floors instead of heating the rooms you’re using.

It’s a smart move to inspect your ducts at the end of winter. You’ve likely been using your heating every day, so it’s a good time to do a quick check before you forget about it for the warmer months. Signs of duct issues include:

- Rooms that stay cooler than others, even with vents open

- Unusual smells coming through the vents

- Rattling sounds or whistling when the heater’s on

- Marks or dust lines near ceiling vents

If it’s safe to get into your roof space, take a quick look for hanging or split ducts. While it may be tempting to patch things up yourself with tape or insulation, it’s always best to get qualified support. A professional will not only repair the ducting but also check for other weak spots that might affect airflow or system pressure.

Air that escapes into areas you're not using ends up being wasted heat, which your system has to keep recreating. Over time, this can make running your heater more expensive than it needs to be. Catching problems early keeps your home warmer and your system healthier.

Scheduling Professional Servicing
Even when everything seems fine, your gas ducted heating system still needs a professional check from time to time. Regular servicing helps catch problems before they turn into costly repairs. It ensures all parts are working safely and efficiently, especially after a full winter of use.

A technician will look at the burner, heat exchanger, gas pressure, fan motors, and other parts that affect performance. They’ll also check for any signs of wear and tear or carbon build-up inside the unit. These types of issues may not be obvious to you but can affect airflow, safety, and how well your home gets heated.

If you’ve noticed strange smells when your system’s on, or you’ve had to crank it higher just to feel comfortable, that could be a sign it’s time to book a service. Leaving small issues unchecked through til next winter might mean bigger problems down the track. One Canberra homeowner we helped had no idea a build-up in their return air grille was slowing their airflow until a simple inspection highlighted it.

An expert’s visit also gives you a plan. You’ll know if parts are aging, whether any upgrades are needed, or if everything's good to go. This means no surprises next winter when you flick the heating back on. Servicing once a year, especially right after winter, is a good rule of thumb for Canberra households.

Energy Efficiency Tips For Gas Ducted Heating
While a properly maintained system does most of the work, a few small changes inside the home can also make a big difference. These tweaks help you get the most from your heater and keep operating costs manageable.

Here are some energy-saving tips:

- Set your thermostat to a steady temperature. Around 18 to 20 degrees is usually comfortable. Constantly changing the setting forces the unit to work harder.

- Block draughts around doors and windows. This keeps warm air in and cold air out.

- Close doors to rooms you’re not using, so the system focuses heat where it matters.

- Open curtains or blinds during the day to let sunlight naturally warm up interior rooms.

- Use ceiling fans on low to spread warm air evenly through the space.

- Don’t cover vents with furniture or rugs, as this blocks air flow.

These habits work best when your system is clean and running as it should. Even something as simple as sealing a crack under the door can improve how consistent the temperature feels around the house.

Enjoy Warm, Cosy Winters in Canberra
Knowing when and how to care for your gas ducted heating system makes a big difference come winter. Some of the simplest steps, like changing a filter or checking for a draught, can help your unit last longer and work better. You’ll notice your home feels more balanced, with fewer cold pockets and more comfort from room to room.

As Canberra heads into spring, it’s an ideal time to tick off these maintenance tasks. Clear out the winter dust, fix anything out of place, and get your heating checked professionally before you tuck it away. That way, when winter returns, you’ll be ready to face it calmly, knowing the hard work’s already been done.

For Canberra homeowners looking to keep their systems running smoothly across every season, regular care goes a long way. A well-maintained unit can heat your home faster, run quieter, and last much longer. To book a reliable gas ducted heating service, reach out to the team at AGA Air Conditioning and enjoy consistent comfort all year round.