Everything You Need to Know about a Gas Leak

What Is a Gas Leak?

With about 60% of homes in the U.S. using natural gas for tasks such as cooking, space and water heating, and drying clothes, people need to understand the potential dangers of gas leaks and how to identify and respond to them if they occur. This post will help homeowners protect themselves and their loved ones from gas leaks, sharing how to identify a gas leak, respond to it, and its dangers.

Signs and Symptoms of a Gas Leak

Residents of a household should be diligent in noticing signs that a gas leak may be occurring at home. These signs include the following:

• Rotten egg smell: Gas companies add sulfur to natural gas to give it a rotten egg smell that can alert people to the presence of a gas leak.
• Hissing or whistling sounds: Hissing sounds may indicate gas escaping through a leak in the gas line even when gas isn’t being used.
• Dead or dying plants: Gas leaks can cause houseplants and even plants outside the home to die and wilt.
• Higher than normal gas usage: The utility bill and increased gas use can also alert people to a gas leak. 
• Symptoms of Natural Gas Poisoning: Exposure to a gas leak can also cause physical symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, nausea, breathing difficulties, and headaches

Responding Safely to a Gas Line Leak

Once homeowners have identified the signs of a gas leak, they must refrain from using electronic devices or appliances in the home and promptly leave the property, ensuring everyone is at a safe distance. Anything that could cause a spark should be avoided while evacuating the home, including cell phone use or starting a car parked near the property. 

Once at a safe location, phones can be used to contact the gas company to report the gas leak. The gas company must be notified as they can turn off the supply of gas coming into the home which can help prevent fires or explosions. Then, a professional must be called in for gas leak detection and repair to fix the gas leak safely.  

What Makes Gas Leaks Dangerous?

Because natural gas is a flammable material, its presence in a home has the potential to start a fire or cause an explosion when ignited, and in a home, there are plenty of sources of ignition. Cell phones, light switches, and electronic devices and appliances have the potential to create a spark that can ignite the gas.

Even without an igniting spark, gas leaks can be dangerous since natural gas inhalation, especially at high levels, can cause natural gas poisoning, which can become evident when symptoms emerge. These symptoms may include dizziness, fatigue, headaches, nausea, breathing problems, and irritation of the eyes and throat. Without timely detection and gas line repair, homes and residents can be put in a very dangerous situation.

About JD Precision Plumbing Services

JD Precision Plumbing Services is a family-owned and operated company serving Conroe and the surrounding areas. They provide honest, upfront pricing, proven methods, and the latest technology. Call them for gas leak detection and gas line repair in Conroe, TX.  

Contact Information:

JD Precision Plumbing Services

15487 Pin Oaks Dr
Conroe, TX 77384
United States

Jerry David
(936) 228-5000
https://www.jdprecisionplumbing.com/