Many people prefer natural gas to heat their homes and water because it’s more efficient and cost-effective. Gas appliances cost less to operate than electrical appliances do, and a gas water heater can keep your showers warm just fine as long as you have a large enough water heater for your usage. Natural gas is safe for the most part, but there are times when you could end up with a gas leak. Five Star Plumbing lists the signs of a natural gas leak below to help you keep your family safe.
Gas Leak Signs in the Home
If the gas leak in your home is very small, you may not even notice it. This is why it’s important to have your gas appliances and the main line inspected annually to ensure there aren’t any undetectable leaks. You should definitely call a professional service to inspect your home’s natural gas lines if you notice
- A rotten egg smell (sulfur)
- Hissing and/or whistling sounds from the gas lines
- Dust or white clouds near the gas lines
- Bubbles in your household’s water
- Visible damage to gas pipes or lines
- Your houseplants are dying suddenly
Another sign that you have a gas leak somewhere in the home is a sudden increase in your gas bill. If you open up the bill and have a figurative heart attack, the gas is leaking from somewhere unless your family’s usage has increased drastically. Increased usage, however, doesn’t blow up the bill too much.
Physical Signs of a Leak
The problem with natural gas leaks goes beyond what they can do to your bill; they can also affect your health. Natural gas is poisonous to humans and animals and if you don’t notice the leak, you, your family, and your pets could become ill and possibly even die. Physical signs of a gas leak include
- Appetite loss
- Breathing problems
- Chest pains
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness/fatigue
- Ear ringing
- Eye/throat irritation
- Flu-like illness
- Frequent headaches
- Lightheadedness
- Mood changes/depression
- Nausea
- Nosebleeds
If you come into direct contact with the natural gas, your skin will blister and become pale. Your pets will also show signs of illness if you have a natural gas leak. Symptoms include appetite loss, breathing difficulties, disorientation, lethargy, mood or behavioral changes, red/watering eyes, and vomiting.
A natural gas leak can cause death, so it’s crucial that you call Five Star Plumbing right away. We’ll find the leak and fix it to help prevent you and your family (including the pets) from getting ill.
