Gas leaks can be hazardous. They can poison your family, resulting in lightheadedness, headaches, and even fatal asphyxiation. Plus, they can be highly flammable. Using a mobile phone in a gas-contaminated area can result in severe fire or explosion.
You should always hire a professional plumber to fix a gas leak. In addition to repairing clogged toilets, leaky faucets and busted pipes, plumbers are qualified to work on gas pipes and deal with dangerous gas issues. Never fix a gas leak yourself! Fixing the leak is a job for professionals.
Signs of a gas leak
Technically, natural gas is odorless, but most gas companies will add a rotten egg smell, so its presence is easily detected. Sometimes the leak is small enough you cannot smell it. You may notice a hissing sound from a leaking gas line. Pets and humans can show symptoms of exposure — lightheadedness, dizziness or passing out. You might see signs in your pets first. House plants may die. The color of the flame in an appliance may change. You might notice soot around appliances.
Why natural gas leaks are dangerous
Breathing in natural gas can cause serious health effects such as lightheadedness or brain damage. Suppose the leak is serious enough to replace oxygen in the body. In that case, it can lead to loss of consciousness and even be fatal.
Natural gas leaks are also severe fire risks. Any tiny spark can ignite the gas. Avoid flipping on any electrical switches or using a phone. Avoid starting a car because it could generate a flame or spark. If gas has accumulated, it can lead to an explosion.
What to do if you have a gas leak
First, tell everyone in your home about the gas leak. Gather any pets and leave the house as soon as possible. Turn off any appliances that are using gas, such as stoves and furnaces. Call your gas company and report the leak. Then call a professional plumber to inspect and make the repair.
Why you should only call a plumber for a gas leak
Repairing a gas leak should only be done by a professional plumber. Fixing the line is not a DIY home repair. The consequences of doing this job incorrectly can be deadly.
One reason a plumber is perfect for the job is they are often familiar with the appliance that is the source of a gas leak — a stove, oven or furnace. Plumbers with training to fit, adjust and repair pipes to fit correctly to prevent gas leaks.
Sometimes, a gas leak can occur from a break in the gas line and be challenging to pinpoint. A professional plumber has the qualified expertise to locate the source of a gas leak safely and correctly.
How to prevent gas leaks from happening
To avoid gas leaks, only have a professional and qualified plumber install your gas lines. You should also have regular inspections on your lines by a professional plumber to ensure there is no damage by wear and tear.
Always keep areas around gas appliances unblocked and clear to ensure proper airflow. This allows natural gas to circulate through vents and properly disperse without accumulating in an enclosed space, potentially causing an explosion.
Install carbon monoxide detectors around your home, so you are immediately notified if gas does begin to leak.
Call Plumbers 911 for a complete gas line inspection!
If you suspect you have a gas leak or need your gas lines inspected, call Plumbers 911! We are a network of qualified, professional plumbers that can make emergency calls.
Any plumber dispatched by Plumbers 911 has been thoroughly vetted and undergone rigorous background checks and drug testing. They are fully insured, bonded and licensed.
Call Plumbers 911 and be connected to a contractor today!
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