15 Dec Who Do I Call When I Have a Gas Leak? (Tyler, TX)
You heard about these types of leaks before, but do you know much about them? It’s essential to understand what a gas leak is and who you should call if you suspect it’s happening in your home. The following will help you understand natural gas leaks a little better.
What are the Signs of a Gas Leak?
Gas is a fossil energy source. Methane is what gas is made of, which partly makes it so valuable. But, unfortunately, this is also why it’s so dangerous should it leak.
Yes, leaks happen. The pipeline may be faulty or damaged. Leaks are the reason pipeline safety is so important. The issue could also be due to lousy pipeline installation. A leak could not only put you in danger of fire and explosion, but it could also lead to physical symptoms like the following:
- Some people have difficulty breathing.
- People may have a loss of appetite.
- Some people hear ringing in their ears.
- A person may have mild to moderate nosebleeds.
- Some experience chest pains.
- Some deal with some form degree of dizziness.
- People may develop pale or blistering skin.
- A few folks experience flu-like symptoms.
People could experience some if not all of these symptoms should there be a leak. Pets also go through similar symptoms but may also vomit and experience lethargy.
What Causes a Gas Leak?
Gas leaks can happen for various reasons. For example, age could cause pipeline safety concerns. If you haven’t had your system serviced or inspected in a long time, then you should consider calling the experts. Gas technicians can help ensure you are safe.
Age isn’t your only concern. There are many more. The root of a tree in your property could damage your pipes. Homeowners digging in their property could damage these pipes as well.
How Do I Check for a Gas Leak?
If you suspect a leak, you should call the experts. But, of course, it would be best if you didn’t go on a hunt for it. Instead, it would help if you left it to trained professionals. Still, if you notice a damaged pipe, you know that could be the source of the issue.
Don’t try to fix it; take notice and call. If you notice a white cloud or a dust cloud near your pipes, then that’s a sign of a leak, too. Some people even hear a whistling or hissing sound near their pipes when a leak is present. Another sign of trouble is dead houseplants since they are sensitive to changes in oxygen. If there’s a gas leak, you’ll also notice a higher gas bill.
What Does a Gas Leak Smell Like in a House?
Natural gas is odorless and colorless. That’s a big thing to keep in mind and part of the reason it’s so dangerous. Gas companies add an odor to the gas to ensure that folks smell it when it leaks. So you might notice a rotten egg smell.
If exposed to it long enough, natural gas can prevent you from smelling anything. If you don’t smell anything, you might think you’re safe, but you aren’t. Odorless leaks are one reason you need to make sure you have a methane detector at home or a gas detector. If something leaks, these devices should warn you and your family and keep everyone safe.
Ensure your device is working at all times, so inspect it often and test the device as instructed. It would always help to replace the batteries when they’re running low. However, it’s better to keep a few extra ones at home so that you don’t run out and put your family in any danger.
Hopefully, this information helps you and your family stay safe. Be sure to call your gas technicians if you need to or aren’t sure because it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Tyler serves the East Texas cities of Kilgore, Longview, Tyler, and Whitehouse with a team of certified plumbers. In addition to emergency plumbing repair, some of the plumbing services provided by the company include faucet repair, drain services, toilet repair, plumbing fixture installations, tub and shower installations, kitchen sink repair, faucet installation, water heater repair/replacement, and garbage disposal replacement. Call us today at (903) 730-6611 to schedule an appointment!