Inspection sticker

RECOMMENDATION: Replace your 5-litre water heater that is not connected to the chimney with an electric water heater (e-boiler) or connect your appliance to a chimney. Likewise, check to see if an existing hot water pipeline can be extended to reach the hot water outlet of the 5-litre heater. Your plumber or electrician will be happy to advise you further.

Currently, there are still around 20,000 5-litre water heaters in Vienna which are not connected to a chimney. During the Fifties and Sixties, these appliances were installed to provide hot water mainly for washbasins or sinks.

This kind of appliance may no longer be installed. Similarly, it is not allowed to exchange an old one for a new one. This is not without good reason. 5-litre water heaters release emissions directly into the area where they have been installed.  In light of the fact that building walls and windows are becoming increasingly better insulated, it is often no longer possible to ventilate the rooms naturally. This results in the build up of carbon monoxide, which cannot be detected by a human's natural senses. Even small amounts of this colourless and odourless gas can be fatal. Similarly, faulty maintenance and improper use can increase the risk of exposure to carbon monoxide.

As a result, 5-litre water heaters are to be used in accordance with the following instructions:
• Regular servicing to be carried out by a specialist!
• Length of use: max. 10 minutes!
• Ventilate rooms well when used!
• Only use the appliances to fill up washbasins and sinks. Do not shower!



Duty to inspect:
Since 2004, 5-litre water heaters without a chimney connection must be inspected every two years by an authorised specialist (plumber) at the appliance operator's expense. The test result is to be stored next to the appliance, with a copy being sent to Wien Energie Gasnetz. The results of the inspection and the regular functioning of the unit have to be permanently visible on your appliance by means of an inspection sticker.