In need of a gas leak repair? We serve Denver, Boulder, Fort Collins and most mountain communities, for fast, safe and efficient gas line repair. Call us for a free estimate and priority scheduling. (303) 466-4206
A gas leak repair can restore safety and security for your family or business. When natural gas is properly utilized it is both safe and clean. It allows us to enjoy things like hot water, cooking, warmth, etc. Without it, life just wouldn’t be as enjoyable.
However, when a gas leak develops, this useful commodity can become a danger for anyone in the building. How you handle the situation when a gas leak develops can mean the difference between a minor inconvenience and a catastrophic event.
Signs of a Gas Leak
The first sign that you have a gas leak is the smell of sulfur or rotten eggs. This is due to a required odorant in natural gas called mercaptan. Without it, natural gas is odorless, making it nearly impossible to detect. If you notice this distinct smell, there are a few other indications that can help solidify your suspicion. Although these don’t occur with all gas leaks, they do sometimes appear. There may be a hissing/whistling sound near the gas appliance or gas line or dead or discolored grass near the leak if it is located outside. It is especially important to get your gas line checked for leaks if you notice exposed piping after a natural disaster.
Gas Leak | Steps to Take
When someone smells or suspects a gas leak, safety needs to be the first priority. Whether in a residential home or a commercial business building, your actions will be similar.
- Open windows and do not use light switches, electrical appliances, any type of phone, or garage doors.
- Get everyone out of the building and far away before using your phone to call for help.
- For help, call either 911 or your local utility company. If your utility company is not responding, call the fire department.
- The response to this call will most likely result in either your utility company or the fire department coming to turn your gas off at the meter.
- They will let you know when it is safe to return to your home but will only allow the gas to be turned back on once all leaks are repaired.
Getting Your Gas Line Repaired and Turned Back On
A gas leak repair is not a simple and straightforward process if you’re unfamiliar with the procedure. If your gas line was “yellow tagged” they may not have turned the gas off, but they told you to have it repaired as soon as possible. However, if they did turn your gas off, your utility company will allow a licensed gas line repair company to make the necessary fixes. The gas line company will then complete the necessary repair, test it, turn your gas line back on, and verify that all the gas appliances are working properly.
On the other hand, being “red-tagged” means that your gas was turned off and your meter booted. If this is the case, only your utility company can unlock your meter after a permit is obtained. Once the gas line is repaired, it will be put on test, and your jurisdiction will make a proper inspection.
If the gas line passes inspection, your gas line will be turned on and officially safe to use again. This process can take up to three to five days. Three to five days can feel like an eternity if you don’t have hot water, heat, cooking appliances, etc. This waiting can be avoided if you hire a specialist that has experience and knows how to speed up the process with an emergency permit and inspection.
How Gas Lines Become Damaged
There are a few reasons gas lines can spur a leak.
- Both time and usage can corrode gas lines making them more susceptible to cracks and breaks.
- Environmental factors can also cause pipes to rust or become damaged.
- Faulty, misused, or improperly installed gas lines or appliances can start to leak as well. It is important to have your gas lines and appliances professionally installed and exercise extreme caution when moving an appliance to prevent altering the gas piping.
Gas Leak Repair Experts | Who to Call and Why?
Except for the homeowner, only licensed individuals are legally allowed to fix your gas line. Unfortunately, the fire department and utility company cannot make recommendations for gas leak detection and repair which leaves you on your own. Who you call for your gas leak repair will determine your experience and the reliability of the gas line.
When searching for a gas company that can complete the gas leak repair, ask friends and family for references, Google it, or explore the Better Business Bureau’s recommendations.
Once you have narrowed it down to a few companies, make sure to read reviews and verify that they are licensed. By completing these steps, you are ensuring that you will have a qualified and reliable company working to make your home/business safe again.
Our Standard
The Gas Connection has completed thousands of gas leak repair projects from Castle Rock to Fort Collins, many of which were finished in one day. Because of this, we have gained the trust of our local utility companies, jurisdictions, and inspectors over the past 40 years and hope to gain yours as well.
We would like to prove that we can be there in your time of need. Whether you are looking for a gas leak repair or a free estimate, we make sure to use the most cost-effective, efficient, and professional methods in the industry to complete your job.
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