How To Detect a Gas Leak In Your Home

Natural gas is a convenient source of energy that we use to run different types of appliances. At home, we use it to run stoves and ovens, fireplaces, barbeque grills or fire pits, heating and cooling systems, and so on. It is safe, environmentally friendly, and easy on the wallet.

It is also very reliable compared to electric power, which often shuts down during storms. However, it can present a serious threat to your health and safety, if there is a leakage that you are unaware of.

Gas Leakage and the Dangers Involved

One in every ten homes in Perth reports a gas leak. Gas leakages occur because of improper installation or maintenance and may even turn into a worst-case scenario if immediate action is not taken. Old gas lines are more susceptible to leakage as they corrode and wear away over time. Though natural gas is non-toxic, long-term exposure can cause dizziness or asphyxiation and result in serious health conditions. To ensure a safe environment at home, call in the pros to check for gas leaks, servicing, or repair work. Visit this site: https://zambeziplumbing.com.au/services/gas-services/  to get fast, efficient, and cost-effective gas services all over the city of Perth.

How to Detect Gas Leaks?

Here are a few ways to detect a gas leak in your home, and how to prevent it from happening in future.

1. Smell

Gas is odourless, but most gas companies add in an additive that gives a distinct smell. So if you smell something pungent or similar to a rotten egg, there’s a high probability that you have a gas leak.

2. Sound

If there is a gas leak, along with the smell you’ll hear a whistling or hissing sound. Pay close attention to find out where the sound is coming from. That will help you know which appliances need to be unplugged. It is recommended that if you hear the sound, unplug all the gas appliances, turn off all the electric switches, open all the windows, and move out from the house for safety. Once outside, call the professionals for the next step. Even a tiny spark can be dangerous in this situation.

3. Change in Flame Colour

When you turn on the stove, the normal colour of the flame should be blue. If you see an orange or red coloured flame, it is highly likely to be a gas leak. As mentioned earlier, when you see these symptoms, turn off all the gas appliances, not just the stove. This includes extinguishing flames from fireplaces, firepits, barbeque grills, etc.

4. Dead Houseplants

With everyone becoming environmentally conscious, people in Perth have started taking care of plants at their houses. It’s not only eco-friendly but can also make your home look more serene and decorative. If you suddenly notice that your plants are starting to die without any cause, it may be due to a gas leak in your home.

5. Feeling Unwell

Long-term exposure to natural gas can lead to gas poisoning. It can affect you and your families health by causing dizziness, headaches, concentration and memory problems, nausea and difficulty breathing. When you start to experience these symptoms while using a gas appliance, such as the stove, laundry dryer, or gas water heater, consider a gas leak occurring and immediately stop using the appliance.

6. Excessive Gas Bills

Sometimes, the aforementioned signs may not be detectable. You may have a stuffy nose, low hearing, or feeling unwell, you may write it off as having the flu. This could be due to slow gas leaks. However, when you notice a sudden increase in your gas bill, even though you didn’t do anything out of the ordinary for the past month, it’s time to take action and repair the leak.

How to Prevent Gas Leaks in Your Home

• When you have several appliances running on gas, it’s very important to have them checked and maintained regularly. Performing routine maintenance reduces the chances of corrosion, breakage or damaged gas lines from occurring which eventually prevents a gas leak.
• Have your gas system inspected by professionals once every year or whenever you think it’s appropriate. They will provide you with recommendations if something requires repairing or installing.
• You can install electronic gas detectors, that can be mounted in a room much like fire detectors, and constantly monitor your house for gas leaks.

What to do When You Detect a Gas Leak?

Once you detect a gas leak in your home, the first thing you should do is:

• Turn off all gas appliances.
• Open all the windows and doors.
• Avoid electric switches. Don’t turn them on or off. Don’t even use your phone when you’re inside the house.
• Step out of the house and move to a safe location.
• Call the professionals to check and repair any gas leaks.

In a Nutshell

Gas leakages occur in one of every ten homes. It could be due to corrosion of the pipes, improper installation and maintenance, or it’s an old gas line in need of an upgrade. Whatever the reason may be, gas leaks shouldn’t be taken lightly. Use your sense of smell and sound to detect gas leaks in your home. The longer you wait to confirm, the more harmful it’ll be for you and your family’s health. To avoid any danger, it’s always a good idea to call in the pros to identify and fix the gas lines.  Regular maintenance of gas lines and pipes will help prevent leakages and ensure safety for you and everyone around you.