Gas leaks are a dangerous problem for homeowners. These leaks, which can occur from gas stoves, fireplaces and other gas-powered appliances, cause natural gas to build up inside your house, which can lead to serious and potentially deadly health problems. So it's important to know when you might have a gas leak. Here are a few of the signs your gas is leaking:
Rotten egg odor
One of the most noticeable signs of a gas leak is a rotten egg smell in your home. The odor comes from a chemical that's added to natural gas, since gas itself is odorless. If you smell sulfur or rotten eggs in your home, especially if the odor is strong, this might indicate a gas leak.
Higher gas bills
Slow-leaking gas is harder to detect. If your gas bills and usage have been higher than normal, this might mean you have a gas leak somewhere in your home. Talk to your local gas company about your bill increase and have a professional plumber inspect your gas lines and make repairs as needed.
Plant problems
Houseplants or plants near your home with stunted growth could indicate a gas leak. These leaks can also cause plants to die by preventing them from absorbing oxygen. Yellowish grass patches on your lawn close to your house can also be a sign of gas leaks.
Hissing noises and air bubbles
Hissing sounds in your home can occur when there's a gas leak in appliances or pipes. This noise can happen even when appliances are shut off. Air bubbles in mud or puddles outside your home can occur when underground pipes have a gas leak.
Health Issues
You might experience health issues if your home has a gas leak. These symptoms might include headaches, breathing problems, fatigue, lightheadedness and nausea. More serious symptoms can include memory problems, more severe headaches and loss of consciousness. Seek medical care right away if you experience possible symptoms of natural gas poisoning.
If you notice any signs of a gas leak, use your gas shut-off valve to prevent more gas from leaking into your house. Open your windows and have everyone in your home, including pets, leave immediately. Then call 911 to report a gas leak in your home and wait outside for help to arrive.
About the Author
Kim Daneault
Like many of her clients, Kim’s family is the driving force in her life. Having lived and traveled the world, her husband and she have found New England to be the best place to raise a family; and have made it their home for over 20 years. She is happy to have built a family with a strong commitment to the New Hampshire area. And has developed a history of active participation in the community. Whether it is through the successful real estate practice; the many volunteer positions; or her active family time;
