3 Signs of a Residential Gas Leak and When to Call for Help

Natural gas is safe when installed correctly. Natural gas produces water, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen oxide. It is safe but can be dangerous if handled improperly. With over 73 million homes in the United States using natural gas, it is necessary to know how to identify leaks. A gas leak can lead to physical symptoms in some people like poisoning. Moreover, gas leaks increase fire and explosion risk.

Knowing the gas leak signs will keep you and your family safe. Three main senses are used to identify gas leak signs: sight, smell, and hearing. Always confirm using a second sense just to be sure it is a gas leak. Here is a look at the signs that will tell you there is a gas leak.

1. Bad Smell

Notice a rotten egg smell in your house? Well, don’t ignore it, it could just be a gas leak. Natural gas is odorless but the providers add a strong smell to help you identify any possible dangers. Gas companies use odorants to give gas the rotten egg smell. If the odor is stronger, chances are high that you have a leak.

2. Sound

Homeowners use gas regularly. With gas, it becomes easy to heat, dry clothes, or cook. However, at times a leak can occur which can be very dangerous.

If you hear hissing or whistling sounds from a pipeline, you better check it out. The noise will be persistent even after switching off the appliance. Check your appliances and pipes regularly to detect any leaks on time.

3. Sight

You may not see the gas since it is colorless, but there are certain signs you can be on the lookout for. Signs like bubbling sounds, dirt being blown into the air, blackish-green soil, dry patches of grass, and fire hovering above the ground.

What to Do If There is a Gas Leak

If you notice a gas leak in your home, you should do the following:

• Evacuate: Make sure everyone leaves the house and is in a safe place. By doing so, you reduce being exposed to the gas.
• Open windows and doors: When leaving the house, make sure you leave all the windows and doors open. That way, the leaking gas will go outdoors.
• Get help: It’s time to call for help when everyone is out and a safe distance from the house. Call 911, the natural gas emergency line, or the local fire department. You can also have a plumbing company to handle the leak. Professionals will get the job done immediately giving you that peace of mind you need.

Natural gas leaks are rare but they can be dangerous when it occurs. Being educated about the leaks will ensure you are aware of the signs before they escalate. Prevention is always better than cure. Prevent the gas leak from happening in the first place by having carbon monoxide detectors and doing yearly inspections. If you even suspect a gas leak, it’s best to err on the side of caution and contact your local emergency service.