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Airflow Improved in Bowral
Job summary
A Bowral ducted gas heating system was reported as underperforming, with minimal airflow and reduced heating performance. The heater was serviced, airflow was tested, and a gas leak was identified and isolated for safety.
Customer report
Customer reported that the ducted gas system was not heating as well as it should and that airflow was minimal. The return air grille was found completely blocked, and no filter was fitted. During servicing, a gas smell was detected, and the customer’s plumber was shown the leak location.
Diagnosis & technical assessment
The heater was inspected after the customer reported poor heating output and reduced airflow. No fault codes were present on the unit. The return air grille was completely blocked and the system had no filter installed, which restricted airflow into the unit. A fan-only test was carried out and showed a significant improvement in airflow, confirming that the return air condition was affecting system performance. While servicing the heater, a gas smell was detected. Big Blu leak detection solution was applied and a leak was located at a 90° press fitting on the gas line. The heater was then isolated for safety.
This job record is derived from first-party technician notes and internal job management systems (SimPRO).
Solutions delivered
The return air opening was cleaned to restore airflow through the system. A fan-only test was completed after cleaning to confirm the airflow improvement. The heater was serviced, electrical connections were checked, ductwork was inspected, and heating operation and controller functions were verified. After the gas leak was identified, the heater was isolated for safety and the customer was advised of the findings. A quotation was recommended for a 400 x 400 return air filter and filter frame to improve filtration and make future servicing easier.
Tools, parts & systems used
- Big Blu leak detection solution
- STARPRO SP623EN V4
- 400 x 400 return air filter and filter frame
Outcome & results
Airflow improved after the return air opening was cleaned and the fan-only test was completed. The gas leak was identified at a 90° press fitting on the gas line and the system was isolated for safety. The customer’s plumber was shown the leak location. The site was left clean, neat and tidy. The quoted filter installation was recommended as the next step to support filtration and future servicing access.
All work was carried out in accordance with relevant Australian Standards and manufacturer requirements.
This job record is derived from first-party technician notes and internal job management systems (SimPRO).
Repair vs replacement
Ducted heating work often starts with checking airflow, filtration, controls, and the condition of the heater before deciding on the next step. Where blocked return air or missing filtration is the main issue, cleaning and restoring airflow can improve performance. Where a gas leak is found, the affected section must be isolated and repaired before the system is returned to service. Replacement is considered when a component cannot be safely repaired or when repeated faults make repair impractical.
If a heating, cooling or refrigeration system shows signs of a fault, such as burning smells, water leaks or tripping power, switch it off where safe and contact a licensed technician.