At Platinum Plumbing, we’ve never had a job in Bloomington or Normal that’s been too challenging for our highly trained technicians. Our plumbers continually train and learn the latest techniques and equipment so you can rest easy knowing that you’ll always get the highest quality work that’s done right the first time. We take great pride in our customer services, which is why we’re the only 5-star rated residential plumbing company in the area. Call us today to schedule your appointment.
Call us first when you need expert, same-day burst pipe repair.
Signs of a Gas Leak
No matter how much effort you put into keeping your gas lines in tip-top condition, eventually, there will come a time when a line corrodes or breaks and develops a leak. There are many dangers associated with gas leaks in the home, and here are the most common signs that you shouldn’t ignore.
- Rotten Egg Odor: If you smell something in the air with a hint of rotten eggs or sulfur, it could mean that you have a gas leak. Natural gas is odorless and colorless, so gas companies mix a chemical called mercaptan into the gas to alert people of leaks.
- Dead Plant Life Near Gas Line: If you notice that your plants or garden are struggling to survive or thrive, this may be a clear indication that you have a gas leak in your home or yard. Noticeable dead vegetation is usually a telltale sign, but if you are just bad at gardening, check out some of the other signs or call Platinum Plumbing to be sure.
- Bubbles: Another sign that you may have a gas leak is by performing a bubble test. Prepare a mixture of dish soap and water and make sure the gas is on. Using a sponge or cloth, wipe the area of the pipe where you suspect a leak. If you see bubbles, it means you have a gas leak.
- Fog or Mist: If you see an unusual fog or mist in your home, it could mean that you have a ruptured gas line.
- A Fire: First call the fire department, and then call us for repairs and potential remodeling if your kitchen or bathroom has been damaged.
- Hissing Sounds: Lastly, listen closely for hissing sounds near your gas lines and call for a professional gas leak detection company right away for repairs.
Gas Leak Dangers
While most Americans use natural gas their entire lives without incident, some aren’t as fortunate. A gas leak isn’t something to take lightly because of the potential dangers involved. The threat of a gas leak depends on how large the leak is. Remember, natural gas is highly combustible, so if you have a large leak in the house, you run the risk of a fire or explosion should a stray spark ignite the gas.
Besides fire, natural gas is also highly toxic to people and animals. When you’re exposed to small amounts of natural gas, you may experience headaches or nausea. However, in large doses, the effects can be much more severe, such as blurred vision, dizziness, or worse if your exposure is prolonged.
What to do During a Gas Leak
As mentioned above, it’s not uncommon for aging gas lines to leak, and while leaking gas can be dangerous, most people will be safe if they follow a few simple tips.
- The first thing to do if you suspect that you have a gas leak is to get everyone out of the house immediately.
- Next, don’t use any electrical devices inside the house because of the risk of sparks.
- Leave your doors open to help dissipate the gas.
- Call the gas company and a gas line repair plumber as soon as possible.
- If you remain calm and use common sense, you and your family will remain safe until the leak is fixed.
