Identifying a Gas Leak And When to Call a Gas Plumber
Date: August 8, 2018
ARTICLES
IDENTIFYING A GAS LEAK AND WHEN TO CALL A GAS PLUMBER
AUG 08, 2018
THE DANGERS OF INSTALLING YOUR OWN GAS LINE
If you plan on installing or repairing your own gas line, stop right there. You should contact a professional whenever working with gas lines. There are many dangers that come with working on a gas line and the safest option is having a gas plumber do the job for you.
Ideally, gas pipes should last around 50 years, but if not properly protected are at risk of breaking down quickly and leaking gas. If there is a gas leak and it goes undetected, there is potential for a fire, or even worse, an explosion. A source of ignition such as a lawn mower, cigarette, or a naked flame is enough to cause an explosion.
In addition, depending on the proximity of an outdoor gas leak, the gas could enter the house and make the occupants ill.
Propane differs from natural gas because it is heavy than air and will sink to the floor if there is a leak. Propane dissipates slowly and can accumulate in combustible areas even in ventilated rooms. You should avoid having any propane devices above the first floor. The propane can move down the stairs and spread across your house before you even realize it.
SIGNS OF A GAS LEAK
Homeowners typically first detect a gas leak by smelling it. Although the natural gas is odorless, a chemical is added to give the gas a very distinctive smell. Other signs that there is a gas leak are no gas or low pressure, which is indicated by a low flame at all of the house’s gas appliances. This indicates there is a leak somewhere else in the house or outside. Another danger sign is being unable to turn off the gas to an appliance or heating unit.
When you notice the smell or any sign of a gas leak, immediately leave the house. Don’t use any appliances or switches to avoid possibly creating a spark. You may open windows or doors if you wish, just make sure you don’t do anything that could create a spark. Once outside, call 911 and a local utility company. If you have a cordless, non-cell phone, do not use this to make the call as the base unit is inside the house. If you do not have a cell phone to make a call, find a public phone or ask a neighbor to borrow their phone to have the proper help on the way as soon as possible. The professionals will be able to safely work on the gas line repair so you do not have to worry anymore.
Don’t take the risk of installing/working with gas lines yourself. The Comfort Heroes are here for your safety, call 602-787-3956 or click here for their help!