Gas Ducted Heating Repairs by Licensed Techs | Western & Northern Suburbs

Sometimes ducted heating issues can be resolved with a few simple checks.

Before booking a service call, try the following:

• Reset the heater by switching the 240V power OFF, waiting 10 seconds, then turning it ON again (Use the mains switch if the GPO is inaccessible.)
• Check the circuit breaker to ensure it hasn’t tripped
• Confirm the gas isolation valve is ON and the pilot light is lit (Applies to older 1990s models)
• Replace thermostat batteries if they’re low or older than 12 months
• Make sure the thermostat is set to HEAT and in MANUAL mode
• Set the thermostat temperature above the current room temperature
• Ensure at least 7 outlets are fully open to maintain proper airflow
• Check that the return air filter is clean (Dust‑blocked filters can cause overheating, shutdowns or cold air)

If your heater still isn’t operating correctly after these steps, the issue is likely a fault that requires professional diagnosis and repair.

A ducted gas heater follows a predictable sequence each time it starts. When everything is working correctly, the process is smooth, consistent, and usually takes 1–2 minutes before warm air reaches the outlets.

Here’s what a normal start‑up should look like:

1. Thermostat Clicks - The thermostat sends a signal to the heater to begin the heating cycle.
2. Combustion Fan Starts - A small internal fan runs first to clear the combustion chamber and prepare for ignition.
3. Igniter Ticking Sound - You’ll hear a clicking or ticking sound as the igniter attempts to light the gas.
4. Gas Ignition (“Whoosh” Sound) - The burners ignite and begin heating the heat exchanger.
5. Pre‑Heat Delay - The heater warms internally before the main fan starts.
6. Room Fan Starts - Depending on the unit:
   - The fan may start immediately, or
   - It may slowly ramp up to full speed
7. Warm Air Within 1–2 Minutes - Warm air should begin flowing through the vents shortly after the fan starts.

Once the room reaches the set temperature:

• Burners turn off
• The fan continues running for around 2 minutes to extract remaining heat

This is normal heating cycle.

When the Sequence Isn’t Normal:

If the heater:

• Takes too long to ignite
• Repeats the ignition cycle
• Starts the fan but blows only cold air
• Doesn’t progress through the steps

…it usually indicates a fault that needs professional diagnosis.

We carry common spare parts for Brivis, Braemar, Bonaire, Vulcan and other major brands, allowing us to complete most repairs on the same day.

If you’re experiencing any of the issues below, your heater needs professional attention.

Start‑Up & Power Issues

• Heater won’t turn on / not starting
• Blank screen on wall controller / keypad
• Error message on thermostat or controller
• Heater tripping the power / safety switch / fuse
• Thermostat not responding

Airflow & Temperature Problems

• Heater blowing cold air / no warm air
• No air coming out of some vents
• Uneven heating across rooms
• Heater takes too long to produce warm air
• Fan running continuously
• Heater starts then shuts off too quickly
• Heater cycles on and off frequently

Smells, Sounds & Safety Concerns

• Burning smell or smoke from vents
• Heater is noisy / making unusual sounds

Most Heaters Are Repairable — We’ll Find the Cause

Regardless of the symptom, our licensed technicians can accurately diagnose the fault and identify the underlying cause.

In most cases, we’re able to offer a cost‑effective repair solution on the spot, as we carry common spare parts for Brivis, Braemar, Bonaire, Vulcan, and other major brands manufactured from the early 2000s onward — including many units from the 1990s.

Every ducted heating repair starts with a clear, structured assessment. Our goal is to quickly identify what’s causing the issue so we can provide the most practical and cost‑effective solution. This initial step ensures we understand exactly how your system is operating and which components require attention.

1. Diagnosis & Fault Identification

We carry out a thorough system check to pinpoint the exact fault. This includes testing:

• Ignition system
• Burner assembly
• Fan motor
• PCB / control board
• Thermostat
• Gas valve
• Sensors
• Heat exchanger
• Ductwork & airflow

This step allows us to determine precisely why the heater isn’t performing as it should.

2. Repair Options & Transparent Quote

Once the issue is identified, you receive:

• A clear explanation of the fault
• Practical repair options
• Transparent pricing
• Confirmation of genuine parts availability

We make sure you understand the problem and the most cost‑effective way to fix it.

3. Same‑Day Repairs

Because we stock common spare parts for all major brands, most repairs can be completed immediately — without needing a second visit.

4. Safety Testing

Every repair includes essential safety checks to ensure your system is operating correctly:

• Carbon monoxide test
• Gas leak test
• Ignition safety test
• Airflow test

Your heater is only signed off once it passes all safety requirements.

5. Final Report & Warranty

You receive a written summary of the work completed, including before‑and‑after photos, along with a 12‑month warranty on all replaced spare parts.

We keep pricing simple, transparent, and focused on value — and we do not charge a call‑out fee.

What’s Included in Your Technician’s Visit

Your appointment is a full professional service, not just a quick look. It includes:

• Complete system inspection
• Accurate fault diagnosis
• Minor repairs completed within the first hour
• FREE carbon monoxide safety test
• FREE gas leak test
• Expert advice on repair options
• Access to stocked spare parts for same‑day repairs

This ensures your heater is assessed properly, safely, and efficiently by a licensed technician.

Total Cost

If the issue is minor and can be fixed within the first hour without spare parts, you’ll have your heater up and running, safety‑tested, and the total cost is $280 incl. GST (Only Spring/Autumn Special).

Parts & Additional Labour

If your heater needs spare parts or extra labour beyond the first hour, we’ll explain the fault and provide a clear report and quote for the cost of the required parts and the additional labour to fit them before continuing with the repair.

Same‑Day Repairs Available

We carry common spare parts for all major brands, allowing us to complete most repairs during the initial visit.

How often should my ducted heater be serviced?

All manufacturers recommend servicing every 2–3 years to keep your heater running safely and efficiently. Regular servicing also helps prevent unexpected breakdowns during winter.

Why is there a burning smell when I turn on my heater?

If you’re using your heater for the first time in a while, it’s usually just dust burning off the heat exchanger.
This smell should disappear quickly.
If it doesn’t go away, or if the smell becomes strong or unusual, the heater needs to be checked by a licensed technician.

How much does it cost to run my heater?

Running costs depend on several factors, including:

Insulation quality / Window and door sealing / Ceiling height / Floor coverings / Return air location / Number of outlets open / How long the heater runs

Improving insulation and sealing gaps can significantly reduce running costs.

There is no air coming out of some vents — what does that mean?

This is usually a ductwork issue, especially in zoned systems.
Check for:

Blocked ducts / Disconnected ducts / Damaged ductwork / Closed zone dampers

If airflow is uneven across rooms, the system should be inspected.

How can I reduce the running cost of my heater?

You can reduce costs by:

Turning the heater off when not needed / Installing ceiling and wall insulation / Sealing gaps around doors and windows / Keeping the return air filter clean / Reducing the set temperature by 1–2 degrees

Small changes can make a noticeable difference.

Can a filter be fitted to my return air?

Yes — but the return air grille must be large enough to handle the airflow.
In many cases, a larger grille is required to avoid restricting airflow and causing the heater to overheat or shut down.

Why does my heater take too long to start or blow cold air?

If warm air doesn’t start within 1–2 minutes, something is wrong.
Common causes include:

Ignition issues / Fan not starting / Blocked return air filter / Too many outlets closed / Thermostat not sending the signal

This is a sign the heater needs professional attention.

Do you carry parts for major brands?

Yes — we stock common spare parts for Brivis, Braemar, Bonaire, Vulcan, and other major brands.
This allows us to complete most repairs on the same day.

How long does a repair take?

Most repairs take 1–2 hours, depending on the fault and parts required.

Do you offer same‑day repairs?

Yes — especially during winter when heating faults are urgent.