Gas Leaks

Gas leaks are some of the most dangerous issues that can arise in any home. The consequences of an unidentified leak can be devastating to your home and health. As such, it is crucial that you learn how to spot the signs of a leak and that you know what your options are. We at A1 Sewer & Drain are consummate professionals when it comes to locating and repairing leaks in residential and commercial properties.

The Signs of a Gas Leak

The dangers of a gas leak in your home are pretty self-explanatory: fires, poisoning, and even explosions can stem from an undetected leak. Carbon monoxide poisoning, of course, is the really insidious danger because, unlike natural gas, carbon monoxide has no scent. This is why it is called the “silent killer.” In fact, even low-level exposure can cause long-term damage to your health. Of course, larger doses of gas or carbon monoxide are the most pressing concern. Here’s how you can identify a gas leak in your home.

A Bad Smell 

Some gas companies today add mercaptan to the natural gas they supply. This chemical reacts with natural gas in a very specific way and causes it to smell like rotten eggs. If you notice this kind of smell in your home, you should have someone assess your home to ensure that a gas leak is not the source of the smell. Natural gas has its own slightly sweet smell too. Of course, you can have an entirely odorless gas leak, too.

Dead Vegetation

One of the strongest signs that you have a low-level odorless gas leak is dead vegetation in or around your home. If your houseplants start dying seemingly without reason, it’s likely that you have a leak inside your home. Of course, part of your gas line lies underground, so if your lawn or garden starts to wilt, there could be a leak in your main line.

Hissing

If you hear a faint hissing sound when you stand close to your appliances or water heater, it’s very possible that you have a leak somewhere in the vicinity.

Dizziness and Headaches

People have varying sensitivities to natural gas and carbon monoxide. If you are particularly sensitive, you may experience headaches and dizziness long before you get more serious side effects. If you notice that these feelings are most prevalent when you’re home, or if they only take place when you have been home for a while, it’s likely you have a leak.

Nausea

Nausea is another common early-stage side effect of carbon monoxide or gas leaks. If you frequently feel nauseous when you are at home and you can’t find a good reason for it, you should leave the house, get some fresh air, and call a professional.

How to Handle a Gas Leak in Your Home

If you suspect that you may have a gas leak in your home, it is important that you take steps to protect yourself immediately. First and foremost, you should shut off your gas supply if you can. Secondly, open all of your windows and doors, and take everyone including any pets out of your home. Do not light any candles or matches, and do not touch anything that relies on electricity to start.

Once you are out of the house you should call professionals to assess the situation immediately. A professional will be able to detect the severity of the leak (or leaks) within your home. More than this, they will be able to figure out the best solution. After all, a leak in your gas line doesn’t always mean you need a full replacement; you could just need a minor repair.

Here at A1 Sewer & Drain, we know to handle a gas leak. Our team of technicians is one of the best in the area. We know how to find leaks and get the right permits to ensure that your repairs go quickly and smoothly. As well as repairing pipes, fittings, and appliances, we can entirely replace any gas lines that are too damaged to be salvaged.

Ensuring that you get the best possible deal is important to us; we know our customers demand great value as well as high-quality work. We are available 24/7, including holidays and weekends, too, so there’s no reason not to call us if you have concerns.