There are several benefits to using gas around your Australian home. Not only are gas stoves, appliances, and water systems more energy efficient but they’re also considerably more environmentally friendly. It’s no wonder then that more than five million homes across Australia rely on gas to keep their homes functioning.
Despite being so efficient, gas can also be very harmful. In fact, many homeowners rely on the emergency plumber Brisbane locals use, to ensure that gas leaks are tended to immediately. If you’ve recently installed your first gas system, knowing the warning signs of a potential gas leak is essential.
Tell-Tale Signs to Keep an Eye Out For
If used correctly and safely, your gas system can do much more than just warm your home. In addition to being used for stoves, fireplaces, and other appliances, gas can also be used in your outdoor entertainment area. This increases the likelihood of a potential gas leak developing over time.
Essentially, gas leaks occur when the pipes and fittings carrying the gas become damaged or worn. This then results in natural gas or carbon monoxide leaking into your home. Since gas is highly flammable, this can instantly result in an explosion or house fire.
On the other hand, when humans and animals inhale this gas, it can be fatal. So, while gas may be very versatile, it can also be life-threatening. It’s with this in mind that you should be aware of the number one rule in the gas plumbing industry – Any gas issue is an emergency.
That means, don’t wait for a small leak to become more prominent, rather call your plumber immediately. Our experts have compiled a list of the most common signs that will highlight a potential gas leak.
A Strange, Rotten Smell
The most significant sign that you may be dealing with a potential gas leak is an unusual, rotten egg smell. This odour will be more pronounced in the room where the leak is. If left long enough, it will be noticeable throughout the home.
If you’re wondering why the smell is so awful, the answer is quite genius! In previous years, gas was completely odourless, which made it nearly impossible to detect. Recent years have seen gas companies adding a harmless chemical called mercaptan to give the gas its now distinctive sulphur-like smell. This makes it so much easier to identify a gas leak.
Hissing Sounds Around the Gas Line
Another tell-tale sign that you’re dealing with a gas leak is a hissing sound near your gas lines or gas appliances. Even if the sound is faint and only seems like a small leak, it still poses a viable threat.
Experts advise against trying to repair the leak by yourself. The best course of action here is to get everyone out of the house and call your emergency plumber immediately.
Unusually Dead House Plants
If you have house plants that are usually healthy and thriving, their sudden death may be an indication that there’s a gas leak nearby. Keep in mind that one dead plant may not be cause for concern, but several decaying or wilting at the same time, with no other explanation, is definitely worth looking into.
Unexplainable Health Symptoms
Leaking gas can cause the people in your home to suddenly start feeling unwell. As with the plants, one sick person may not be too concerning, but more than one could spell a potential issue. These symptoms will develop quickly and won’t have any other explanation.
The symptoms you’ll want to look out for include the following:
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Flu-like symptoms
- Unexplained headaches
- Irregular breathing
- Chest pain
Do The Small Bubble Test
If you don’t want to jump to conclusions, it’s a good idea to do the “small bubble test”. For this test, you will need to have an idea of where the leak is. To do this test, follow these simple steps.
- Step 1: Turn the gas on.
- Step 2: Mix water and dish soap in a container.
- Step 3: Dip a sponge in the mixture, ensuring that the sponge is soapy.
- Step 4: Wipe the wet sponge over the area where you think the leak is.
- Step 5: If you see bubbles appear, it’s confirmation that you have a gas leak somewhere. An underground leak will show up in wet areas and the soap bubbles just make it easier to see.
Look for Fogging
The air in your home should be clean and clear. If however, you’ve noticed a hazy cloud hanging in the air, it may be necessary to check for other signs of a gas leak. Keep in mind that this misty cloud isn’t present in every home with leaking gas, so, don’t wait to see it before calling your plumber.
Final Thoughts
There are many safety regulations to keep in mind when you install a gas system in your home. Knowing how to correctly use and store gas will go a long way toward ensuring everyone’s safety.
You should also be aware of the tell-tale signs that may indicate a potential gas leak. Remember, any gas-related issue is an emergency, so keep your plumber’s number handy and maintain routine safety checks. You’ll be glad you did!
