4 Signs You Have A Gas Leak

Natural gas provides many homeowners with a reliable means of cooking, heating and receiving hot water in their homes all year ‘round. This substance is a safe and convenient source of energy when installed and used correctly, but gas leaks pose a serious risk of carbon monoxide poisoning when they occur.

Here at Skelton’s Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we’re best known for our HVAC services. However, our specialty is providing safety and comfort to our local residents, and that includes educating homeowners about the potential signs and dangers of a gas line leak.

Dangers Of A Gas Line Leak

Natural gas leaks pose a serious threat to your health and your home, and you should always be prepared to take immediate action if you suspect you have one. Due to its flammability, this substance poses the risk of a fire or even an explosion when heavily dispersed in the air, making it extremely dangerous.

It’s vital to your health and safety that you understand the warning signs of a leak and know what to do in this situation. So, here are four common signs to look out for that may indicate you have an ongoing gas leak.

One: Smell Of Sulfur Or Rotten Eggs

One of the most familiar signs of a gas leak for many people is the recognizable stench of sulfur or rotten eggs. This stinky odor is a result of a special additive used by utility companies as a safety precaution to make it possible for homeowners to detect the presence of these harmful gasses in the air.

Two: Hissing Or Whistling Sounds

Hissing and/or whistling sounds near your gas lines will typically indicate there is a leak, and the louder these sounds are, the bigger the leak is likely to be. However, not all gas leaks will make these sounds, and it’s possible for a leak to not make a noticeable noise at all. For this reason, it’s important to not only listen for hissing sounds, but also to look out for other signs of a gas leak if you suspect one.

Three: Presence Of Air Bubbles

Performing a simple process called a bubble test can help you determine if you have a gas leak.

Start by mixing a little bit of dish soap in a container with water, and use a cloth or sponge to dip it in the container. Then, wipe down the suspected area and look for any air bubbles. If you see some forming, you have a leak! This process also works for other pressurized gas-filled items like tires and even propane tanks.

Four: If You’re Experiencing Physical Symptoms

Physical symptoms of natural gas poisoning can range from relatively minor to very serious, and can even be deadly. This is why it’s so important to watch out for signs of common health consequences caused by overexposure to this harmful substance, including:

• Headaches and dizziness
• Reduced appetite
• Loss of concentration
• Ringing in your ears
• Difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Chest pain
• Nosebleeds

If you’re experiencing multiple symptoms combined with other signs of a gas leak, you should evacuate the property and contact 911 immediately.

Gas Line Repair — Birmingham Experts!

Exposure to gas leaks can have harmful effects on your health, so it’s critical that you’re familiar with the common signs of a leak and what steps to take if you suspect one. The safest thing for you to do is to turn the gas off and wait for an experienced professional to arrive and perform all of the necessary gas line repair services.

In the event of a heating, cooling or gas leak emergency, don’t hesitate to contact our local team at Skelton’s Heating, Cooling & Plumbing!