Natural gas is an efficient way to heat a home and operate household appliances such as clothes dryers, water heaters, ovens, ranges, and more. However, natural gas presents a serious health and safety hazard if a gas leak develops. Knowing the signs of leaking natural gas can save your life. Our gas leak detection plumbing experts at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Bay Area explain the signs of leaking gas and what you should do if you discover a leak.
Rotten Egg Odor
Natural gas companies add mercaptans to natural gas. These chemicals have a sulfurous odor similar to rotten eggs and most people are able to smell it at very low levels. This bad smell is the most recognized sign of leaking natural gas. If you smell this, immediately leave the house and call us for service.
Malfunctioning Appliances or HVAC System
If any appliance that requires natural gas to operate is not properly working, this is an indication that there could be a leak around the pipe that delivers gas to that appliance. If many appliances are malfunctioning all at once, there could be a leak in the main gas supply line to the home. Get out of the home and call us for urgent service.
Outdoor Signs of Leaks
Dead plants, dirt blowing into the air, or a hissing sound coming from the ground all indicate a leak in the gas pipeline buried under the ground. Leave the area and call for emergency repairs from the gas company and our Bay Area plumbers.
Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Homes with natural gas service should be outfitted with carbon monoxide detectors. If the alarm on the detector sounds, immediately leave the house and call us for service once everyone is outside.
At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Bay Area, we offer leak detection services 24/7/365. Our Bay Area plumbers are licensed and certified to perform gas line repairs to prevent serious health and safety risks. If you notice any sign of leaking natural gas in your home, get out immediately and call us at 415-459-3266 for urgent repair service.