6 Considerations Before Upgrading Your Gas Appliances

Your existing gas appliances may have served you well over the years, but no matter how reliable they have been, you’ll have to eventually upgrade them. By getting more modern and higher-quality appliance models, you can greatly improve the safety and functionality of your home.

Before you start buying anything, however, you must consider the following things first to ensure you can make the most of your new gas appliances. 

Budget

Upgrading your gas appliances can bring numerous benefits, but it can admittedly be costly. From the price of the appliances themselves to installation expenses, understanding the financial implications of this endeavour is crucial for a smooth process. That’s why it’s important to do some research first to know exactly how much you’re willing to spend, both for the gas appliances and the installation service. 

When looking for appliances, keep in mind that higher-quality and more advanced features usually come with a higher price tag. To help you stay within your budget, evaluate whether the features on the appliance are something your household really needs. If yes, then investing in the expensive appliance is justified. If not, it’s better to look for a more affordable option.

When it comes to the installation, on the other hand, it’s in your best interest to hire plumbers Dunedin residents trust. Even if it’s possible to install the gas appliances yourself, letting the experts like Mains Plumbers handle the task is highly recommended. While this may incur additional costs, it's essential for the proper functioning and safety of your new appliances.

Energy Efficiency

Opting for energy-efficient appliances can lead to significant cost savings. They also produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions, which means they contribute to a healthier and more sustainable environment. Thus, while the upfront cost of newer, more energy-efficient gas appliances may be slightly higher than older models, they’re a wise long-term investment. 

Manufacturer Reputation

Make sure to choose gas appliances that are made by trusted companies with a track record of producing high-quality, reliable appliances and are known to sell products that are built to last. This ensures that your purchases won’t malfunction or break down so easily so that you can make great use of them for years to come.

What’s more, leading brands often invest in research and development to innovate and continuously improve their products. From enhanced efficiency to smart connectivity options, these innovations can enhance the functionality and convenience of your gas appliances.

Another advantage of purchasing from reputable manufacturers is their commitment to customer support and service. In the event of any issues or concerns with your appliances, you can rely on their support team to provide you with assistance and solutions, thus ensuring a positive ownership experience.

Warranty

An appliance that comes with a full warranty offers peace of mind because you know that you're covered in case of unexpected issues. Whether it's a faulty component or a malfunctioning system, you can rely on the manufacturer to provide repairs or replacements as needed.

During your search for new gas appliances, review the warranty terms carefully to understand what is covered and for how long. A good warranty should cover parts and labour for a reasonable period, ensuring that you're protected against defects and malfunctions. If you want to get the best value, look for appliances with extended warranty options for added reassurance.

Space Considerations

Before upgrading your gas appliances, it's essential to consider the available space in your home. Gas appliances come in various sizes and configurations, so it's crucial to choose ones that fit seamlessly into your kitchen or utility room. Measure the available space carefully and consider any restrictions or limitations, such as cabinet dimensions, pipe layouts, or ventilation requirements. 

You should also consider how the placement of your gas appliances will impact their functionality and accessibility. Ensure that there's adequate clearance around each appliance for safe operation and maintenance.

Take into account factors such as door swings, traffic flow, and ergonomics when planning the layout of your appliances. Additionally, try your best to find appliances that are as compatible as possible with your existing layout to avoid costly modifications or renovations.

Ventilation

Gas appliances produce combustion by-products, such as carbon monoxide and water vapour, during operation. If your home isn’t equipped to expel these harmful gases, they can build up and lower the indoor air quality of your home. Make sure that you have an adequate ventilation system that can remove the by-products produced by your new gas appliances. Beyond maintaining your home’s indoor air quality, proper ventilation is also crucial in minimising health risks.

That said, keep in mind that ventilation requirements for gas appliances are regulated by building codes and safety standards. It's essential to comply with these regulations to ensure the safety and legality of your installation. Work with licensed gas fitters to design and install ventilation systems that meet or exceed regulatory requirements for your specific appliances.

By carefully considering these factors, you can ensure that you’re purchasing the right gas appliance and getting a satisfying upgrade experience. If you’re looking for qualified professionals to help you with this project, Mains Plumbers is a name you can trust. 

We’ve been providing comprehensive plumbing services in Dunedin since 1947, and by letting us handle the installation, you can rest assured that your upgrade project is in good hands. Visit our Contact Us page and fill out the form, or email us at office@mainsplumbers.co.nz. You can also call us at 03-488-6000 or 027-436-6058, and our friendly customer service representatives will be with you shortly.