Gas Safety Matters: How to Know When to Repair a Gas Line
A faulty gas line is hazardous, and even the slightest sign of wear or damage means that it's time to phone a plumber. If left unchecked, prolonged exposure to a gas leak can lead to significant health risks and even death.
Let's look at a few warning signs to help you determine whether there is an issue with your gas line.
Strange smells
One of the first warning signs of a gas leak in your home is the smell. Since natural gas is odorless, they add mercaptan to give it an odor and make any leaks easier to detect. The scent is often compared to that of rotten eggs, giving it a sulfur-like quality.
If you detect even the faintest gas smell, it is vital to immediately open all windows and exit the property, even if the scent is mild. Depending on the severity of the leak, contact a plumber or 911 to address the problem.
A hissing sound
As well as producing strange smells, a potential gas leak can also make weird noises. As gas escapes a faulty pipe, it often makes a hissing sound.
Cracks in gas lines mainly occur due to old age. Residents in older properties may want to consider getting their gas lines regularly checked for damage to avoid potentially putting household members at risk.
Dead plants
If a leak occurs in your outdoor gas line, you may notice dead or dying plants on your lawn. Additionally, an indoor gas leak will also affect any indoor house plants. There will be a visible sign because exposing plants to natural gas interferes with their oxygen intake to survive.
Faulty appliances
Many appliances in the household rely on gas to operate. The following can all be affected by a potential gas leak:
If you use a gas water heater, a sign of a fault is that only the cold water tap works.
A gas stove will no longer work.
Any heaters you have will most likely stop working altogether if there is a gas line problem.
Decline in health
Exposure to gas over a long period can displace your oxygen intake and lead to increased headaches, nausea, and breathing problems. Prolonged exposure can often lead to worsened health issues down the line.
Any of the above symptoms occurring – without being naturally sick – may indicate a gas leak. Residents should contact a professional immediately to deal with the problem.
Surprising gas bills
An unexpected rise in utility costs can signify a gas leak. Homeowners will use more gas without realizing it when there is a fault in the system.
Always get professional help
If you want to check your gas line, always contact a professional plumbing service. They will address any issues to avoid gas leaks. If you notice any of these warning signs, it's vital to notify an expert - regardless of how insignificant they seem.
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