Gas leaks are extremely dangerous. If ignored, they can cause explosions and major damage to your home. Gas leaks can also harm your health because they expose you to dangerous chemicals that can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, nausea and fatigue. Here is an in-depth look at how to recognize a gas leak, what to do if you find one and how to keep your home safe in the future.
What Are the Different Types of Gas Lines in a Home?
The two most common kinds of gas lines found in residential buildings are flexible gas piping and black iron pipes. Black iron pipes are a frequent and long-lasting choice when it comes to carrying natural gas because of their resilience and use in underground or indoor applications. Flex gas piping, which is commonly constructed from corrugated stainless steel, is a great alternative for connecting gas appliances such as water heaters and stoves because it is both lightweight and easy to install. Each type of gas distribution system offers unique advantages and serves optimally for specific household tasks. To do repairs and maintenance effectively, it is crucial to understand how they vary.
Warning Sign #1: Rotten Egg Smell
Gas companies add mercaptan to natural gas, giving it a sulfur-like smell that is sometimes likened to that of rotten eggs, but the gas itself is usually odorless. If you detect even a slight hint of rotten-egg odor in or around your house, leave immediately, and call for help. This smell indicates escaping gas, which could cause problems if not dealt with quickly.
Warning Sign #2: Hissing Sounds Near Gas Lines
Listening for hissing noises in the area around gas lines, appliances and fixtures is another important indicator of a gas leak. In many cases, this noise means that the pipeline is releasing gas, which is a dangerous situation. If you hear a hissing sound, pay close attention to where it is coming from; relaying this information to the gas repairman will make their job easier. Exit the house as quickly as possible because the gas that is escaping has the potential to catch fire.
Warning Sign #3: Dead or Dying Plants
If otherwise healthy plants suddenly start to display symptoms of trouble, such as wilting leaves or drooping stems, it could indicate a deeper issue. There may be a major gas leak in the area, so it’s important to investigate further if you notice this change in your plants. Natural gas has the potential to deplete soil oxygen levels as it seeps out, making it more difficult for plants to take up water and nutrients. Although homeowners often fail to notice this symptom, it serves as a critical warning message.
Warning Sign #4: Unexplained Health Symptoms
Health-related warning signs of gas exposure include lightheadedness, headaches, nausea and exhaustion. In more extreme instances, extended exposure might lead to significant medical problems and could be life-threatening. Urge everyone to leave the home, and get medical help if you experience any of these symptoms and think there is a gas leak.
Warning Sign #5: Increased Gas Bills
It’s wise to have an expert check for a gas leak if you notice a spike in your gas bills that doesn’t match any changes to your gas-using habits. When your gas bill is consistently high, it’s probably because something is wrong with your gas appliances or lines, causing you to waste gas. To catch these outliers sooner rather than later, it’s a good idea to record your monthly gas expenses.
What to Do
If you suspect a gas leak, you need to act swiftly but carefully. The main shutoff valve is usually located near the gas meter, and turning it off is the first line of defense. It is also imperative that all occupants vacate the premises without delay. Avoid using electrical devices or anything that could cause sparks, as these objects can cause gas to ignite. The next step is to call 911 or the gas company for help. They know what to do in these kinds of emergencies and can safely locate the leak’s origin and fix it.
Prevention Tip #1: Schedule Regular Inspections
The best way to catch gas line and appliance problems before they get worse or cause gas leaks is to have a professional come out and inspect them on a regular basis (at least once a year). Pros in the field can spot problems like leaks and wear and tear that amateurs might miss.
Prevention Tip #2: Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Having a carbon monoxide (CO) detector is essential for every residence, especially those that include gas appliances. These detectors can alert you to potentially harmful levels of carbon monoxide, which arise from incomplete combustion in gas appliances. As an extra precaution, set up carbon monoxide detectors in strategic places around your house, especially in bedrooms. To keep these detectors working effectively, check the batteries often, and replace them when necessary.
Prevention Tip #3: Avoid DIY Gas Repairs
You might think that doing DIY gas repairs is a great way to save money, but there are several reasons to leave these repairs in the hands of a professional. To remain safe and in compliance with local regulations, people need to possess specific expertise when working with gas lines. Dangerous leaks can occur when an unskilled homeowner unintentionally causes unsafe conditions, such as faulty connections or inadequate sealing. On top of that, amateur fixes aren’t always as good as expert repairs, so a DIY attempt might lead to expensive problems down the road.
Prevention Tip #4: Ensure Proper Ventilation
Proper ventilation is essential in every room that houses gas equipment, including stoves, water heaters and furnaces. To do this, you’ll need to make sure the vents and chimneys are always clear of obstructions. It is also helpful to check the exhaust fan’s effectiveness on a regular basis. In really cramped quarters, opening windows or vents to allow air to circulate is a smart move. Carbon monoxide can accumulate and cause damage to you and your house if the ventilation is inadequate.
Prevention Tip #5: Know the Location of Your Gas Shutoff Valve
In the event of a gas leak, being familiar with the location and position of the gas shutoff valve is crucial for swiftly stopping the gas flow and reducing potential dangers. You can usually find this valve on the gas meter or anywhere along the gas line that goes into your house. To turn it off, just turn the valve a quarter of the way clockwise. In the event of an emergency, it is critical that all household members know where to find and how to activate this valve.
Trust the pros at Woodward Heating Air Plumbing for expert plumbing services in Oregon! We are here to help keep your home protected from gas leaks. We also specialize in HVAC installations, indoor air quality solutions, thermostat replacements, drain cleaning, water line replacements and much more.
Call us now to schedule a gas line inspection for your home in Salem, OR.