Gas leaks can occur without a warning. No matter how you make an effort to keep your gas lines in top condition, there will come a time when the lines will corrode and deteriorate. When this happens, you need to schedule plumbing maintenance to inspect the lines and address the problem right away.
Not properly addressing the problem can result in paying for costly repairs. It is important that you remain vigilant by paying heed to the sounds, smells, and sights. There are dangers associated with gas leaks that you should not ignore. A gas leak can pose a risk to you and your family. Pay attention to the signs of gas leaks so you will know how to address the issue.
Signs of a gas leak
Rotten Egg Smell: Do you smell something which is similar to a rotten egg? Propane and other types of natural gas have a distinctive smell which can be compared to a rotten egg. The smell is due to the additive known as mercaptan. They are present in odorless and colorless gases for safety purposes. Aside from smelling like rotten eggs, they can also smell like sulfur or sewage.
Dead Plants And Vegetation: Although it might be impossible to observe your gas lines in hidden areas, you can suspect a gas leak if you see patches of dead plants. This can be a sign that a gas pipe is leaking underneath.
Small Bubbles: Another sign that you should not miss is the small bubbles. You will see this if you perform a bubble test. To do this, you need to prepare a mixture of dish soap and water. Be sure to turn the gas on when performing this bubble test. With the use of sponge or cloth, wipe down the area you suspect to have gas leaks. You have a gas leak if bubbles start to form on wet areas.
Fog Or Mist: You should call a plumber for help if there is an unusual fog or mist around your home. It can be a sign of a ruptured gas line.
Hissing Sound: You should also try to find out if there is a hissing sound near the gas lines. The hissing sound is an indicator that you have a gas leak. A hissing sound should be a cause for alarm especially if it is near your air conditioner as it is an indication of a leaking valve, leaking refrigerant line, or a bad compressor. You will need to turn your unit off and schedule an inspection with a professional.
The dangers of a gas leak
The threat that a gas leak poses will be dependent on how large the gas leak is. You have to keep in mind that natural gas is considered to be highly combustible. If you have a large leak in your property, you can expect a fire or explosion if any type of spark occurs. The source of the spark may be your electrical devices.
By turning on the TV, flipping a switch or hanging up a telephone, you can cause any kind of spark. The fire or explosion can be dangerous for everyone as it can cause injury or even death. However, small leaks will not cause fire or explosion, but this does not mean that they will not cause any damage. The side effects of leaks cannot be underestimated as they can pose a serious threat to your family and your property.
Inhaling natural gas is toxic. When you are exposed to small amounts of natural gas, it can cause nausea or headaches. Higher amounts of natural gas can have severe symptoms. However, natural gas is also safe to use in your home so long as you do not ignore gas leaks. You just need to make sure that your gas lines are working right. Dangers will arise if the natural gas failed to burn off properly.
When this happens, the gas will emit carbon monoxide which can be very dangerous. Even exposure to low amounts of carbon monoxide can cause nausea, headache, blurry vision, dizziness, and upset stomach. The symptoms of gas leak are similar to flu. When you leave your home immediately, the symptoms will also go away. Avoid prolonged exposure to carbon monoxide as it can be deadly. The first step to take is to get out of your home quickly if you suspect leaks in your gas line. Call an Arlington plumber right away to inspect your gas lines.
Salman is a prolific environmental writer, and has authored more than 500 articles in reputed journals, magazines and websites. He is proactively engaged in creating mass awareness on renewable energy, waste management, sustainability and conservation all over the world.
Salman can be reached on salman@cleantechloops.com
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