A gas leak is a serious safety hazard and needs to be addressed immediately. But what exactly is a gas leak, and how can you tell if you have one in your home or business? Let’s explore the source of gas leaks, identifying different types of them and providing tips on how to detect a possible leak.
Types of Gas Leaks
Three main types of gas leaks can occur in residential homes or businesses: natural gas leaks, propane leaks, and carbon monoxide (CO) leaks.
Natural Gas Leaks
Although natural gas lacks color and fragrance, most providers add mercaptan—a compound with an unmistakable stench—to assist in identifying any potential leaks. If you smell an unpleasant odor similar to rotten eggs near your natural gas appliances or vents, leave the area immediately and call your local utility company for assistance. Do not use matches or lighters to locate the source of the leak as this could lead to a fire or explosion.
Propane Leaks
Unlike natural gas, propane is heavier than air so it tends to settle close to the ground where it can be detected by its pungent smell. If you think you may have a propane leak in your home or business, call your local fire department or propane provider right away. And then open all exterior doors and windows immediately and evacuate the area until help arrives.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Leaks
Because CO is odorless and colorless, it is even more difficult to detect than other gasses. To identify a CO leak, install a CO detector on every floor of your property that contains an appliance that utilizes fuel-burning technology, such as furnaces, water heaters, space heaters, etc. These appliances should be inspected regularly by a qualified professional to ensure they’re functioning correctly without leaking any dangerous levels of CO into the air.
If you ever find yourself feeling dizzy or lightheaded due to suspected CO poisoning, seek medical attention immediately! CO is very dangerous because it displaces oxygen in your body making it difficult for your lungs to absorb oxygen properly over time.
Detecting A Gas Leak
Suspecting a gas leak in your home or business? Don’t leave it to chance! Investing in a combustible-gas detector is an effective way to quickly ascertain if something’s wrong and take the necessary precautions. These detectors will immediately alert you of any abnormal levels of natural gas, propane, and other hazardous gasses that may be emitted from nearby stoves or furnaces.
If you spot lifeless plants near pipes or containers nearby, that could be a sign of propane leaking; similarly hissing noises coming from the pipe may point to natural gas escaping through tiny holes.
For assurance and safety for your family, seek out an experienced technician who can inspect and confirm if there are any gas leaks in your residence or business.
With a reputation for excellence spanning over four decades, The Gas Connection has earned the trust of utility providers, jurisdictions, and inspectors. Our team has completed thousands of gas leak repair projects in one day or less – all while utilizing industry-leading methods to provide cost-effective and professional service.
Call The Gas Connection today for a fast, free quote. We’re confident that our expertise will win your trust too!