Are Gas Heaters Safe to Use Indoors? Follow Our Guide

When the temperature drops, there’s nothing quite like the comforting warmth of a gas heater. They’re fast, efficient, and a popular choice in many Aussie homes.

But when it comes to using them indoors, safety is a big question on people’s minds − and rightly so. You might have heard concerns about carbon monoxide or gas leaks, and it’s important to know the facts. So, are gas heaters safe to use inside your home?

The short answer is: yes, they can be − but only if used correctly and responsibly. In this blog, we’ll break down how gas heaters work, the potential risks, and how to use them safely indoors. Whether you already own one or are thinking about getting one, this guide will help you stay warm without compromising your safety.

How Do Indoor Gas Heaters Work?

Indoor gas heaters work by burning natural gas or LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) to produce heat. When the gas burns, it creates a flame that heats up a metal element or ceramic surface.

A fan or natural convection then helps circulate that warm air throughout the room. It’s a simple but powerful way to heat a space quickly and efficiently.

There are two main types of indoor gas heaters: flued and unflued. Flued gas heaters have a vent or pipe that directs combustion gases (like carbon monoxide) outside your home, making them the safer choice for long-term use.

Unflued heaters, on the other hand, release those gases into the room, which means proper ventilation is absolutely essential when using them.

Many modern gas space heaters also include safety features like oxygen depletion sensors and automatic shut-off mechanisms. While the technology is quite advanced, the key to safe operation lies in correct installation, proper usage and regular servicing.

When used the right way, gas heaters are an effective and convenient source of indoor warmth.

Are Indoor Gas Heaters Safe?

Yes, indoor gas heaters can be safe − as long as they’re used correctly and maintained regularly. Here’s a quick breakdown of what makes them safe (or not):

• Proper installation is key. Always use a licensed professional to install your heater to ensure it meets safety standards.
• Ventilation matters. Especially with unflued gas heaters, you need to keep windows or vents open to avoid harmful gas build-up.
• Regular servicing keeps things running smoothly. A yearly check by a licensed technician can catch problems early.
• Safety features like oxygen depletion sensors (ODS), flame failure devices, and overheat shut-offs make modern units much safer than older models.
• Choose the right type. Flued heaters are generally safer for long-term use indoors because they vent gases outside.

On the flip side, gas heaters can become dangerous if they’re poorly maintained, used in sealed rooms or left running unattended. But with the right precautions, indoor gas heaters are a safe, effective way to stay warm during colder months.

Potential Risks of Using Gas Heaters Indoors

While gas heaters can be a great source of warmth, they do come with some risks if not used properly. One of the biggest concerns is carbon monoxide poisoning.

This odourless, colourless gas can build up in poorly ventilated spaces − especially with unflued heaters − and it’s extremely dangerous. Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea and, in extreme cases, can be fatal.

Gas leaks are another risk. A damaged or faulty heater might release unburned gas into your home, which can lead to fires or even explosions if ignited. It’s also a health hazard to breathe in.

Poor indoor air quality is something else to keep in mind. Burning gas can release nitrogen dioxide and other pollutants, which can aggravate asthma or other respiratory issues, especially in kids and the elderly.

Finally, there’s the fire risk. Placing flammable items too close to a heater or leaving it unattended can quickly become a dangerous situation.Fortunately, most of these risks can be managed with proper use, good ventilation, and regular professional servicing.

Safety Features to Look For in a Gas Heater

Not all gas heaters are created equal, and when it comes to indoor use, safety features really matter.

Here are the top features to look for when choosing a gas heater for your home:

• Oxygen depletion sensor (ODS): This clever sensor automatically shuts off the heater if oxygen levels drop too low—an essential feature for unflued heaters.
• Flame failure device (FFD): If the flame goes out unexpectedly, this device cuts off the gas supply to prevent leaks.
• Overheat protection: This safety feature turns the heater off if it gets too hot, helping to avoid fire hazards or internal damage.
• Tip-over switch: Ideal for portable heaters, this switch shuts the unit off if it’s accidentally knocked over.
• Thermostat and timer controls: These controls help maintain a safe and comfortable temperature while preventing the heater from running unnecessarily.
• Child lock: A must-have for families, this feature prevents little hands from tampering with the controls.

Choosing a heater with these built-in safety features gives you extra peace of mind when using it indoors.

Tips for Using a Gas Heater Safely Indoors

Using a gas heater indoors can be perfectly safe − as long as you follow a few key safety tips. Here’s what you should always keep in mind:

• Read the manual: It might not be exciting, but the manufacturer’s instructions are there for a reason.
• Ventilate the room: Always leave a window slightly open or a vent unblocked to allow fresh air to circulate, especially with unflued heaters.
• Keep it clear: Make sure there’s at least one metre of space around the heater − don’t place furniture, curtains, or clothes too close.
• Never leave it running unattended: Turn off your gas heater when you go to bed or leave the house.
• Install a carbon monoxide alarm: It’s a small investment that can alert you to a dangerous situation before it becomes life-threatening.
• Get it serviced annually: A qualified technician should inspect and clean your heater each year before the cold season kicks in.
• Check for signs of trouble: Unusual smells, soot or headaches while the heater is on? Turn it off and call a professional.

Put safety first − always.

When to Call a Professional

When it comes to gas heaters, there are some jobs best left to the experts. Installation is the first big one − only a licensed gas fitter should install a gas heater in your home. Proper installation ensures the unit is connected safely, vented correctly (if needed) and compliant with local regulations.

You should also call a professional for regular servicing, ideally once a year before winter hits. A qualified technician will check for gas leaks, test safety features, clean internal parts, and make sure the heater is running efficiently. Skipping maintenance can increase the risk of carbon monoxide build-up or other hazards.

If you ever smell gas, notice soot marks, hear strange noises from the unit, or experience symptoms like headaches or dizziness while the heater’s on − don’t wait. Turn off the heater, ventilate the room, and call a licensed gas technician immediately.

Your safety and peace of mind are worth it. A professional can spot problems before they become serious and keep your gas heater running safely all season long.

Alternative Indoor Heating Options

If you’re unsure about using a gas heater indoors, you’re not alone. Luckily, there are plenty of alternative ways to stay warm without the same level of safety concerns.

Here are some popular indoor heating options worth considering:

• Electric heaters: Easy to use, portable and generally safe. They’re ideal for small spaces and don’t produce any emissions.
• Reverse cycle air conditioners: Reverse cycle units cool in summer and heat in winter, making them a versatile and energy-efficient choice for year-round comfort.
• Oil column heaters: They’re slower to heat up but provide steady, even warmth without drying out the air. Plus, they’re silent.
• Panel heaters (aka wall furnaces): Slim, wall-mounted, and ideal for bedrooms or offices. They’re safe and often come with thermostats and timers.
• Hydronic heating: A hydronic heating system uses heated water running through pipes in your walls or floors. It’s quiet, efficient, and great for allergy sufferers.

Each of these options has its own pros and cons, but they all offer safe alternatives to indoor gas heating − especially if you’re concerned about emissions or ventilation.

Stay Safe, Warm and Informed

So, are gas heaters safe to use indoors? Yes − when used correctly.

The key is choosing the right type of heater, making sure it’s installed properly, and following essential safety tips like ensuring good ventilation and scheduling regular servicing.

Modern gas heaters often come with built-in safety features that offer extra peace of mind, but it’s still important to stay alert and cautious.

If gas heating doesn’t feel right for your home, there are plenty of safe alternatives like electric or reverse cycle systems. At the end of the day, it’s all about keeping your home warm without compromising safety.

Stay informed, follow the rules and you can enjoy the comfort of indoor heating with confidence all winter long.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See Cyber Air Conditioning’s Terms & Conditions here.