The Dangers of Old Gas Fires (and When to Replace Them)

🔥 The Dangers of Old Gas Fires (and When to Replace Them)

Protect Your Home and Health with timely Upgrades

Gas fires are a popular way to heat living spaces — offering warmth, ambience, and a classic focal point. But if your gas fire is more than 10–15 years old, it could pose serious safety and efficiency risks.

In this post, we’ll explore the hidden dangers of ageing gas fires, how to spot the warning signs, and when it’s time to replace them.

⚠️ Why Old Gas Fires Can Be Dangerous

Unlike modern appliances, older gas fires lack many of the safety features required by today’s standards. As they age, wear and tear increases the risk of:

  • Carbon monoxide (CO) leaks
  • Gas leaks
  • Incomplete combustion
  • Blocked or damaged flues
  • Fire hazards due to heat damage or poor ventilation

Even if your gas fire seems to work fine, that doesn’t mean it’s safe.

🛑 6 Key Risks of Keeping an Old Gas Fire

1. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Old gas fires can burn gas inefficiently, leading to the production of carbon monoxide — a silent, odourless killer. If the flue is blocked or damaged, CO can build up in your room.

Symptoms of CO exposure include:
Headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, breathlessness — and in severe cases, death.

2. Flue and Chimney Blockages

Flues carry combustion gases safely outside. Over time, flues can become:

  • Blocked by birds’ nests or debris
  • Corroded internally
  • Misaligned due to structural changes

This can trap dangerous gases inside your home.

3. Poor Ventilation

Older fires often require additional air vents to burn safely. If the home has been modernised (e.g. double glazing, insulation), airflow may now be insufficient — creating a risk of CO buildup or yellow, unstable flames.

4. Outdated or Non-Compliant Design

Gas fire safety standards have improved dramatically. Many older models:

  • Lack flame failure devices (FFDs)
  • Don’t meet current building or ventilation regulations
  • Can’t be repaired due to obsolete parts

If it’s not compliant, it shouldn’t be in use.

5. Gas Leaks or Faulty Controls

Wear and tear over time can damage:

  • Gas valves
  • Ignition switches
  • Pipe seals and fittings

Small leaks can go unnoticed but still pose major fire or explosion risks.

6. Inefficient Heating

Old gas fires can cost far more to run than newer models — especially if they’re decorative or open-flame types. You’re likely burning more gas for less heat.

🧯 Warning Signs Your Gas Fire May Be Unsafe

Call a Gas Safe registered engineer if you notice:

  • A yellow or orange flame (instead of crisp blue)
  • Soot or staining around the fire or chimney
  • Burning smells or unusual odours
  • Difficulty lighting or staying lit
  • A musty or draughty chimney smell indoors
  • No record of a recent service or safety check

🔧 When Should You Replace an Old Gas Fire?

While servicing helps prolong safety, replacement is usually best when:

✔️ Your gas fire is 15+ years old
✔️ Parts are no longer available
✔️ The fire doesn’t meet current safety standards
✔️ Your home has been modernised (sealed windows, insulation, etc.)
✔️ It has failed a safety inspection or emits CO
✔️ You want better efficiency and lower bills

✅ Benefits of Upgrading to a Modern Gas Fire

New gas fires are not only safer — they’re also:

  • More energy efficient (up to 90%)
  • Sleeker and more stylish
  • Easier to control (remote/thermostatic options)
  • Safer, with built-in FFDs and CO protection
  • Eco-friendlier with lower emissions

Whether you're after a traditional inset fire or a contemporary glass-fronted model, there are options to suit every home.

🏠 Safety First: Always Use a Gas Safe Registered Engineer

Never attempt to service, install, or disconnect a gas fire yourself.

Make sure:

  • Your engineer is Gas Safe registered
  • Your appliance is serviced every year
  • You have a carbon monoxide alarm in the room
  • You get a Gas Safety Certificate after installation (especially if you’re a landlord)

📞 Thinking of Replacing Your Gas Fire?

At Gas-Go Heating, we:

  • Remove and safely disconnect old gas fires
  • Supply and install modern, efficient models
  • Carry out full flue and ventilation checks
  • Provide ongoing servicing and support

🔧 Give us a call today on 02393 782351 and enjoy a warmer, safer home.

🧠 Final Tip: Don't Wait for a Problem to Happen

If your gas fire hasn’t been serviced in years — or you don’t know how old it is — it’s time to act.

Stay safe. Stay warm. And when in doubt, call a professional on 02393 782351

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