Fear of the unknown is a real thing, and when concerns get stuck in our heads, it’s hard to get them out. The fear may come from seeing a news story about a gas line leak or simply smelling something “off” and wondering what it’s linked to. The only thing that can give you peace of mind is knowing that your gas lines are in tip-top shape. There are a few tell-tale signs that can let you know if you have an issue, though. Continue reading to learn more.
A hydro jetting company can assess your plumbing to determine if hydro jetting services are best for you. The process is quick and efficient, providing you with a cost-effective method of drain cleaning.
Signs of a Gas Leak
Millions of Americans use natural gas in their homes. It’s a safe and efficient power source that most of us never really think about until there’s an issue. Natural gas powers furnaces, fireplaces, dryers, stoves, and more. Looking around your home, it’s likely one of your appliances uses natural gas. Learning how to detect a possible issue with your gas line can help you feel more comfortable with its use.
Rotten egg smell: Natural gas is both odorless and colorless. Gas companies add odorants to make gas leaks easier to detect, making them smell like rotting eggs or sulfur. As the smell strengthens, it’s more proof that you might be dealing with a gas leak.
Hissing noise: Gas leaks in pipes or appliances may hiss even when there is an issue.
Presence of air bubbles: Underground piping outside the property can leak natural gas. If you see bubbles in areas of standing water—including puddles and mud—natural gas may be escaping into the air.
Issues with your landscaping or plants: Dead, withering, or struggling plants inside or outside your home may indicate a natural gas leak. Natural gas hinders plant roots from absorbing oxygen, causing withering. Gas leaks can cause smaller-than-normal tree leaves, wilting vegetation, and yellowed grass.
Physical symptoms: Headaches, dizziness, weariness, nausea, and uneven breathing are symptoms of natural gas exposure. Contact a doctor if you suspect a natural gas leak.
Increase in gas usage: Increased natural gas use may signal a leak. Unexpected seasonal spikes in natural gas use may indicate a leak in or near your home.
Tips for Safety if You Have Gas Appliances in Your Home
You can regularly inspect any gas appliances in your home to check for any possible issues with gas line leaks. If you still have the instructions for the appliances, they may offer you assistance on how to check them and how often. If you don’t have the instructions, check online. Many manufacturers offer instructions on their websites.
Furnaces, dryers, water heaters, stoves, and generators are gas-powered appliances. Check the pilot light on most of these appliances. The pilot flame should be tiny, blue, and yellow. If an appliance’s pilot light is abnormal or missing, contact the manufacturer. If you’re not comfortable working with the pilot light, ask a friend or family member to help. When you first work with one, it might be a little intimidating.
Slow gas line leaks may not produce enough odor to be detectable, and persons with a weaker sense of smell may not detect even huge leaks. To detect natural gas, homes need to utilize a detector. You can find natural gas and carbon monoxide detectors at any big box store. Carbon monoxide detectors will alarm you when appliances burn natural gas, kerosene, or other fossil fuels poorly, hinting at a possible issue.
It’s important that you know how to turn off the gas in your home. Every natural gas household has an outside shutoff valve. Make sure everyone knows where and how to operate the shutdown valve.
If you’re in need of tankless water heater repair in the Chicago Metro Area, we can help you with your instant water needs!
What To Do if You Suspect a Gas Leak in Your Home
If you suspect an issue, leave the space and turn off the gas supply. If you’re able, open your windows and doors as you leave and leave them open. Stopping the gas supply prevents natural gas exposure, but it does not mean it is safe to go inside. Stay outside and call 911. A gas line leak assessment will be conducted to see if you need gas line leak repair.