Most households in the United States have one or two appliances that use natural gas to produce hot air or water. To protect family and friends from the harmful symptoms of a gas leak, it is important to understand the causes of the leak and how to prevent them. Since gas leaks can be fatal, do not attempt to repair cracks or holes in the gas line without a plumber or licensed plumbing technician.
While natural gas is an incredible resource for cooking, keeping warm, and many other uses, it is also extremely flammable, and gas leaks can put residents at risk of fire and even explosion. There are many signs that a gas heater is leaking, and you need to understand how to recognize these symptoms.
Unpleasant smell
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There is no color or odor of LPG and natural gas, but the equipment contains an additive that has a very distinctive odor that can be recognized by almost anyone. The substance known as mercaptan or methanethiol is harmless but has a pungent odor; the smell is similar to the smell of rotten eggs or cabbage. If you can smell this smell in your home, you can probably have a gas leak.
Hissing sound
A hissing sound near the gas lines is the most common sign of a gas leak in homes. In fact, a hissing sound usually means a large leak. If you hear a hissing noise near the gas equipment of the gas line, immediately shut down the system and call a professional to check. Strange noises from the HVAC system are never a good sign.
Dead grass and bushes
There are many gas pipes under your home that supply your systems and appliances with natural gas. If a gas line breaks on the ground, gas is released into the air and absorbs oxygen. A natural gas leak blocks a flower’s oxygen source, and fruits and vegetables become discolored when they come into contact with natural gas. Without enough oxygen, grass and shrubs start in your garden. Notable symptoms of a gas leak include yellow grass and dead leaves on your bushes.
Tiny bubbles
A quick way to determine if there is a gas leak is to do a bubble test. It also works for anyone who has compressed gas, like tires, inner tubes, and propane tanks. If bubbles form in wet areas around your home, an underground gas leak can occur. Other signs could be airborne dirt, fog, or haze. If you see unusual fog or haze around the property, it could indicate a ruptured gas line. Immediately call your service company.
Irritates the skin
Some people start to experience symptoms of skin irritation from a gas leak behind a wall or ceiling. A large amount of natural gas in the air can cause bubbles or numbness. Prolonged exposure to carbon monoxide can also cause skin discoloration and other problems.
Symptoms in pets
Unusual behavior in dogs, cats, birds and other pets could be a sign of a gas leak. If the animals are suffering from lethargy, anorexia, vomiting, or other symptoms, check for gas leaks. Pets are often more sensitive to humans when it comes to air quality.
What to do in case of a gas leak?
If you notice a gas leak, open certain windows and doors and leave the area immediately.
Read more: Thermal Cameras And HVAC Home Inspections
- Do not attempt to turn off the gas as this can cause sparks or damaged pipes and equipment.
- Do not try to find the source of the leak. Let a professional find and fix the leak.
- Do not use electricity or lighters, matches, or other devices. Don’t even start your car. Even a small spark can cause a huge explosion.
- Evacuate all area family members and pets and call your local gas company. If they are not available, call your local fire department.
- If the gas is turned off, never turn it on yourself, but let an electrician or professional do it.
- Have a qualified professional repair the leak as necessary.
Plusgas offers high-quality LPG gas bottles to homes and businesses in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Ipswich, and Toowoomba. If you are located in any of these areas in Australia, you can consider contacting them for a supply of LPG bottles. They claim to offer the same day and next day delivery in these areas.
Final Words
These were the signs of gas leaks in homes. Even a small gas leak can be dangerous to life and property. Now, as you know all the signs and symptoms of gas leaks, you need to pay attention to these signs. If you find any signs of gas leakage, immediately call a gas engineer to fix the leak and enhance the safety of your family and property.
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