Potential Gas Leak Signs: What to Do

A sudden natural gas leak is always a cause for concern, whether it involves a pinhole leak in an aging indoor line, a rupture in an underground line or a malfunctioning gas-powered appliance. No matter the type of leak and its cause, it’s something that should be taken care of immediately. Unfortunately, many homeowners are often unaware of ongoing leaks.

Here are a few gas leak signs to look out for:

• You smell an odor similar to rotten eggs. Utility companies include an additive in the naturally odorless gas to warn users of a potential leak.
• You hear a hissing sound near a gas line. This could be an indicator of a gas leak in progress.
• You see a large patch of dead vegetation on your lawn. An underground gas leak can displace oxygen, suffocating plants and other vegetation in the process.
• You suddenly feel lightheaded, dizzy or nauseous. The prolonged effects of a gas leak are often similar to those of carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Your natural gas powered appliances produce an orange or yellow flame. If you see these flames instead of a crisp blue flame, there may be an ongoing natural gas leak.
• You see a white mist or fog outside your home. A ruptured gas line can produce a cloud of mist or fog.

If you see any of the above gas leak signs, you’ll need to act quickly to protect yourself and loved ones:

• Bring fresh air into your home by carefully opening all of the doors and windows in your home.
• Get yourself any everyone else in your home outdoors as soon as possible.
• Contact your natural gas provider as soon as you get outside.

Only a certified professional can make the repairs needed to stop current gas leaks and prevent future leaks from occurring. For more information on gas leak signs or if you need service for your Coastal Bend home, contact the professionals at CCAC today.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Corpus Christi, Texas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 361-678-2495.

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