Natural gas is one of the most convenient energy sources for cooking, as well as heating homes and water. However, gas leaks can be life-threatening.
Discovering leaks early and seeking immediate professional help can keep you and your family safe and give you peace of mind. This article outlines some of the most accurate and do-it-at-home ways to detect gas leaks in your house- without incurring any cost.
Signs of a Gas Leak
Detecting gas leaks may not be easy all the time. However, the following signs can help you identify gas leakages so that you can take the right measures to ensure your safety.
Foul Odour
If your gas pipes are leaking, you’ll smell a foul odour similar to that of rotten eggs or sulphuric acid. Natural gas itself is odourless, which can make it very difficult to notice leakages. For your safety, utility companies add mercaptan compound to natural gas to produce a smell that you cannot miss, signifying a leakage.
Hissing Sounds
If you’re sound-sensitive, you may be able to hear whistling or hissing sounds from a leaking pipe. When you do, try to find the source. The sounds can be very faint or high-pitched depending on the amount of gas escaping from the gas line.
These types of sounds can only be heard when the leakage is substantial, so you should trust your instincts and call a gas plumber immediately if the sounds are coming from near your gas lines or gas-using appliances.
Dead Plants
If you notice that some of your well-looked after plants are withering or dead, check them out properly as there could be gas leakages in the pipes around or underneath them. Gas leakages underneath your home do not impact your health directly, but they cause wastage which could accelerate your gas bill.
Small Bubbles
The bubble test is a quick but simple way of identifying gas leaks on your pipes. Pour a little dish soap into a small bowl of water. Then use a sponge or cloth to wipe the mixture over the suspected area. If bubbles appear, then there is a leak.
If you notice bubbles forming on the wet areas in your yard, you’ll need to get an underground check conducted for gas leaks.
Physical Symptoms
Inhaling natural gas or carbon monoxide inhibits oxygen uptake in your red blood cells. This may cause body pains, light-headedness, nausea, or headaches. If you experience such symptoms, it is essential to check your appliances and gas lines for any leakages.
What to Do Next?
If you notice one or more leakages, you should switch off your gas mains and appliances, open all the windows to properly ventilate the house, and keep a safe distance. You can then call a gas plumber to fix the leakages for you.
Conclusion
Gas leakages in your home can have negative impacts on your health. The signs above will help you notice them early enough before extensive damage occurs. After switching off your appliances and getting out safely, call a gas fitter to safely fix your gas leaks.
