5 Most Common Signs of A Gas Leak To Be Aware Of

5 Most Common Signs of A Gas Leak To Be Aware Of Natural gas is used by many homeowners to power home appliances such as stoves, furnaces, and dryers. Natural gas is so popular in Portland because of its abundance, high combustibility and thus heat output, and the fact that many cities have the piping infrastructure to direct as much gas as needed into a home.

Leaks can occur in homes equipped with gas-burning hardware. How do you know if you have a leak in your home, and what should you do if it occurs? Here are five warning signs that can help you avoid a potentially hazardous situation.

1 – Sulphur/Rotten Egg Smell This is the most obvious sign of a gas leak. Natural gas, unlike carbon monoxide, has no odour under normal conditions. As a result, companies purposefully add mercaptan, a non-harmful odorant that causes any leaking gas to smell and can serve as the first warning sign that you may have a problem.

2 – Frost or White Mist A white substance with the appearance of frost or vapour may form around gas pipes and appliance connections, indicating a rupture.

3 – Increase in Gas Bill Your gas bill may be higher than usual because more gas is escaping into the house than you have been using. Keep an eye on your bills and make sure they're relatively consistent and proportionate to how much gas you use.

4 – Pilot Light Problems A pilot light is found in the majority of gas-burning appliances. When there is a gas leak, this light may frequently go out. Leaks can also turn the flames of pilot lights and gas stove tops orange or yellow when they should be blue. Pay close attention when you're turning on your stove or checking your pilot lights.

5 – You or your animals are experiencing physical symptoms If you have nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, or lightheadedness and see similar symptoms or behaviours in your pets, it is unlikely that a virus is circulating. Excessive natural gas inhalation can have serious health consequences for both humans and pets, though pets may be affected sooner than humans.

Stop what you're doing and leave if you know or suspect you have a gas leak in your home. Turn off all electronics and avoid doing anything that could cause a spark, flame, or electrical current to ignite the gas. Call your gas company right away from a safe location to have them turn off the gas to your home.

Then, contact a gas line repair professional to inspect the problem and make any necessary repairs.

Understanding natural gas safety allows you to look after the appliances that look after you. We can assist you in keeping your gas-burning appliances in good working order. Contact us today for more information on our furnace repair and maintenance services, or for a free estimate!