Identifying Gas Leaks
There are plenty of things that can go wrong with the plumbing in a home. People often think of clogged drains or dripping faucets when considering plumbing problems. However, the professionals who ensure that water and wastewater plumbing is up to code are also responsible for the gas safety in every home.
To have the luxury of natural gas or propane in the home means taking on some risks. Luckily, there are simple ways to mitigate these risks and enjoy the existing luxuries. Here is a quick guide to the risks of gas leaks, spotting the signs, and responding once they occur.
Risks of Gas Leaks
Natural gas and propane are fossil fuels used for cooking and heating the home. They are colorless and odorless, making them difficult to detect if they start leaking from piping. The thing that makes them useful, namely their flammability, also makes them a liability when gas starts leaking from pipes. If the levels are allowed to build up in certain spaces, gas and propane can even be explosive, so they can be major fire risks if not properly managed.
Besides the obvious risks of gas leaks like fires and explosions, numerous physical hazards are presented. Gas and propane can cause physical symptoms like:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Burns on the skin
- Loss of consciousness
- Asphyxia
Signs of a Gas Leak
Since natural gas and propane threats are so extreme, it is in the owner’s best interest to recognize the signs of a gas leak so they can respond immediately. Some of the signs of gas leaks in the home are:
- Rotten Egg Smell: While gas is odorless, powerful sulfur compounds are added at refineries to make gas leaks more obvious.
- Dead Plants: Gas leaks can cause indoor and outdoor plants to turn yellow and die. Watch houseplants and look for dead spots on the lawn for underground leaks.
- High Gas Bills: If gas bills are climbing for no obvious reason, it could be due to a leak.
Steps to Take During a Gas Leak
Gas leaks are serious emergencies that have to be treated with urgency. If the signs mentioned above are ignored, serious consequences may result. However, many people don’t know what to do in an urgent emergency. When a gas leak is noticed:
- Vacate the area immediately. Get outside in the fresh air.
- Extinguish any flames on the way out. Don’t turn electronics or lights on or off.
- Leave the door open for ventilation. Open other doors if it is safe to do so.
- Shut off gas service from the outdoor main. Call the fire department or gas company to do this if necessary.
- Wait for professionals to ventilate the space, then call an emergency plumber to locate the leak and make repairs.
While gas leaks can be serious, there are safe ways to deal with them. Following the steps above, families can stay safe and protect their homes.
About PHD Mechanical Inc
PHD Mechanical Inc. has master plumbers specializing in gas plumbing for appliances and heaters. They also offer a full line of plumbing services with great value and extended warranties. Call today for gas line repair services in Denville, NJ.
