A gas leak is extremely dangerous. It can occur when a gas line leaks or when burning equipment is used.
Because gas is lighter than air, a leak will result in the gas filling every available space in your home, creating a dangerous and highly combustible condition that is hazardous to anybody in or around the region.
A gas leak is a plumbing emergency since it may quickly become hazardous. If you suspect a leak in your home, please contact a professional immediately. We are emergency plumbers who provide high-quality service and are accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We also have extensive knowledge and training in gas systems, so please don’t hesitate to give us a call if you suspect a leak.
Detecting a Gas Leak
Gas leaks, often linked to naturally occurring gas called fossil gas, can present significant dangers. Identifying the signs early and addressing the issue promptly can prevent serious hazards such as carbon monoxide poisoning or fires.
Recognising the Scent
The scent of natural gas enables early detection. To make leaks easily detectable, it is artificially infused with a strong odour resembling rotten eggs or sulphur. If this smell is noticed, it may indicate a gas leakage requiring immediate action to avoid an emergency plumbing situation.
Visible and Audible Signs
Gas leakage can sometimes be identified visually or audibly. A hissing or whistling sound near a gas pipe may indicate a leak. Additionally, bubbling in water near underground gas lines or dead vegetation in an otherwise healthy area may point to a gas leakage. Licensed gas plumbers should inspect these signs immediately.
Appliance Performance and Ventilation
The behaviour of household appliances can signal potential issues. For example, a gas appliance, such as a stove, producing a yellow or orange flame instead of a bright blue flame could indicate incomplete combustion or improper ventilation. This can also lead to an increase in harmful greenhouse gases like carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide.
Electrical appliances connected to your gas supply that fail to operate efficiently or unexpectedly go out may also indicate a gas leakage. Regular inspections of gas appliances and piping systems can help address these issues before they escalate.
Health Symptoms
Natural gas exposure can affect health. Prolonged inhalation of leaking gas may cause nausea, dizziness, or headaches. Gas’s incomplete combustion can further exacerbate risks by releasing harmful levels of carbon monoxide into the air.
Prevention and Professional Assistance
Installing a natural gas detector in your home is an effective way to monitor leaks. These detectors provide early warnings, allowing homeowners to address gas leakage promptly. When issues are suspected, seeking emergency plumbing services or contacting licensed gas plumbers is essential.
Regular inspections and maintenance of gas appliances and pipes are crucial for preventing gas leakage and ensuring safety. Promptly addressing potential leaks is vital to avoid an emergency plumbing situation and mitigate the risks associated with naturally occurring gas, also called fossil gas.
What To Do If You Suspect a Gas Leak
Gas leaks are dangerous and require immediate attention to prevent health hazards or fire risks. Knowing the steps to take can protect your life and that of others around you.
Evacuate Immediately
Leave the premises as soon as you suspect a gas leak. Exposure to hydrocarbon gases, such as those produced when methanogenic organisms produce methane, can lead to severe risks, including carbon monoxide poisoning. Move to a safe location to ensure everyone in the home can breathe fresh air.
Avoid Ignition Sources
Avoid smoking, using open flames, or igniting anything near the suspected leak. A spar can ignite thermogenic gas or other combustible element, even from gas flames. Turn off all electronic devices to prevent unintended reactions.
Shut Off Appliances and Lights
Turn off all electrical and gas appliances, including hot water systems. Avoid switching lights on or off, as this can produce sparks. Appliances that interact with gas should remain off until inspected by a gas fitter or professional plumber.
Ventilate the Space
Open all windows and doors to allow gas to disperse and increase ventilation. Doing this reduces the concentration of hydrocarbon gases and makes the environment safer.
Avoid Using Electronics
Refrain from using mobile phones or other electronic devices inside or near the property. These can emit signals that interact dangerously with leaking gas, similar to risks at petrol stations.
Contact Professionals
Call a licensed gas plumber, professional plumbers, or your gas distributor to report the issue. Emergency plumbing services can provide the immediate assistance needed to locate and fix the source of the leak safely. Rely on experienced professionals to ensure your gas safety.
Get Appliances Checked
Gas fitters can inspect appliances and ensure proper functioning to prevent future incidents. Faulty equipment, such as gas hot water systems, must be repaired or replaced promptly. Regular maintenance by professional plumbers can help ensure long-term safety.
Be Aware of Health Risks
Exposure to leaking gas poses serious health hazards, including nausea and headaches. Address the issue quickly to avoid prolonged exposure to hydrocarbon gases or the risks associated with thermogenic gas leaks.
Following these steps will ensure safety and prevent further complications from a gas leak.
Do You Think You Have A Gas Leak? Request an Emergency Plumber Immediately
Never ignore the smell of gas since even minor leaks can lead to explosive gas concentrations.
If you are concerned about the safety or security of your house, contact The Brisbane Plumbers‘ 24-hour emergency service here.
Joseph and our trained team at The Brisbane Plumbers are qualified to tackle any gas or pipe problems, regardless of magnitude or urgency, in the Brisbane area.