When installed and maintained correctly, gas lines are an incredibly safe way to power your home’s appliances with natural gas. However, gas leaks can happen. If your gas line becomes damaged, natural gas can leak into your home and put you and your loved ones in harm’s way. Gas leaks seriously increase the risk of fires and explosions and can also result in natural gas poisoning. The key to protecting your home and family is to become familiar with the signs of a natural gas leak, so you can have it repaired before it’s too late.
Signs of a Gas Leak
If your gas line is broken and leaking, there will be plenty of signs around your home.
Signs of a gas leak include:
- A sudden spike in your gas bill
- Hissing sounds coming from your gas line
- Dead house plants
- The smell of sulfur or rotten eggs
- Appliances that aren’t running at full capacity
- A visibly damaged gas line
- Bubbles that appear on your gas line when you pour water on it
Symptoms of Natural Gas Poisoning
Coming into contact with natural gas can result in poisoning. Natural gas poisoning symptoms can easily be dismissed as a cold or the flu, so it is important to be aware of all signs and symptoms of a gas leak.
Below are common symptoms associated with natural gas poisoning:
- Confusion
- Memory loss
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Breathing difficulties
- Nosebleeds
- Reduced appetite
- Pale skin
- Eye and throat irritation
- Mood changes
- Ringing ears
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms in conjunction with the additional signs previously discussed, it is likely that there is a gas leak in your home.
What to Do If You Have a Gas Leak
It is incredibly important that you know exactly what to do in the event of a gas leak; following proper protocol can save your life and home. If you suspect there is a gas leak in your home, evacuate your entire household immediately. On your way out, open as many doors and windows as you can without touching any appliances, outlets, or switches. Get as far away from your home as possible and call 911 and your gas company. While waiting for the police to arrive, do not start your car and do not light any matches or lighters. Once your gas is off and your home is safe again, call a skilled plumber to repair the leak right away.
Smith’s Plumbing Services Is Here to Help
As the most trusted name in plumbing, Smith’s Plumbing Services is here to repair your gas line. No problem is too big or too small for our highly trained plumbers to take on. And, our team is committed to being there for you when you need us most, which is why we are on call and ready to serve you 24/7.
For professional gas line repair services, please give us a call at (901) 290-1110. We look forward to serving you!