As a homeowner, you will inevitably need to carry out maintenance to make sure all your appliances are working correctly. Many of these standard maintenance procedures may be done by yourself. Nonetheless, some situations demand prompt expert response. One source of concern is the possibility of a gas leak.

When installed and used correctly, natural gas is safe and very convenient. But gas leaks do happen, which can cause health issues and even carbon monoxide poisoning in humans and animals.

According to the American Gas Association, natural gas is utilized in roughly 73 million US homes, businesses, and industries. It is very flammable, and gas leaks can cause fire and explosion.

To prevent a gas leak in your home, you must first be aware of and recognize the signs of one. Let’s examine the following warning signs of a gas leak:

1. A Rotten Egg Odor

Natural gas is actually colorless and odorless. However, to increase safety, utility providers add mercaptan. This component imparts a pungent rotten egg or sulfuric odor to the gas, making it difficult to ignore. If you smell something similar in or near your home, it might be indicating a leak.

2. A Hissing Noise

When it comes to detecting indicators of a gas leak, this is one of the most revealing. The ability to hear any leaking noise indicates that the leak is likely to be significant and should be resolved quickly.

Failure to act promptly if you hear a hissing sound or detect a leak might result in property damage or injury to anyone nearby. Quickly close all gas appliances, get out of the house, and call an emergency gas repair service right away.

3. White Mist or Fog

Are you seeing a layer of fog or mist around your house? Even if it’s faint, mist might indicate a broken gas line.

If you observe fog forming, don’t waste time and call a dependable, experienced plumber to come quickly and examine the issue before things get worse.

4. Unexplained Spike in Your Gas Bill

Even if you miss the initial signs of a gas leak, an unexplained spike in your electricity bill can indicate you may have one. If your gas costs have suddenly increased, it’s a good idea to get your gas lines tested to check for any possible issues.

5. Wilting or Dying Houseplants

Underground gas leaks are more difficult to spot. However, if you see that your indoor or outdoor plants are dying—particularly near your gas line—call a professional gas line repair company to come out and inspect the situation.

Excessive levels of natural gas obstruct oxygen and kill plants and fruits. So if your plants are wilting or dying for no reason, you might have a gas leak. 

6. Unexplained Recurring Health Problems

Overexposure to gas might cause serious health problems. If you or your family has been suffering any of these symptoms, a gas leak may be to blame:

• Drowsiness
• Lightheadedness and dizziness
• Chronic headaches
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Breathing difficulties or irregularities
• Persistent chest pains 
• Flu-like symptoms.

If you’ve been suffering one or more of these symptoms, it doesn’t necessarily imply that there’s a gas leak. However, it’s certainly a possibility, especially if more than one person in your family is suffering from the same condition for prolonged periods, despite doctor’s checkups and medication.

Conclusion

If you suspect a gas leak, the first thing you should do is open all doors and windows in the house and then leave. Do not use any electrical devices or appliances. Keep all matches and lighters away to avoid even a tiny spark that can lead to a massive explosion.

Call a plumber or a gas line repair service as soon as possible. Resist the urge to fix the leak yourself, as this can endanger you or worsen the situation. Wait for them at a friend’s or family member’s house until they tell you it’s okay to go.

Just as crucial as having a suspected leak checked thoroughly is hiring the right person for the job. This is where we can help.

At Candu Plumbing and Rooter, we provide emergency gas installation or repair among our various plumbing and rooter services from the best plumbers in Woodland Hills, CA. We are committed to excellence and 100% consumer satisfaction. When it comes to your emergency plumbing and gas repairs, we’re on call, 24/7 to help. Contact us today!