Gas is among one of the most commonly used energy resources in homes, usually for heating and cooking purposes. According to the reports, more than 177 million Americans utilize natural gas in their homes. While it greatly benefits us in many ways, it has its hazards, like all other forms of energy.
In recent years, there has been a steady rise in gas explosions and fires associated with combustible gas. The main cause of these accidents is gas leaks. They are silent yet deadly and can wreak havoc on your home and your loved ones.
You might not see or hear a gas leak, which makes it even more dangerous. Before you know it, there’s an accident. This is why you need to be proactive when it comes to detecting gas leaks and fixing them promptly.
The gas leak detection experts at Wasden Plumbing will list the hazards of a gas leak and how to detect them in this blog to help you stay alert and safe. Keep reading to learn more.
The Hidden Hazards of Gas Leaks
Fires and Explosion
As mentioned above, fires and explosions due to gas leaks have been increasing in recent years. This is one of the biggest hazards of a gas leak. A fire or explosion can cause significant loss of life and property, depending on the scale of the accident.
Natural gas is very combustible, which makes it a deadly thing to have in your home. Even the smallest of negligence and carelessness can lead to disastrous consequences. For instance, a gas explosion in Ohio sent three individuals to the hospital on April 8, 2023. There was a similar accident just hours into 2023 on January 1, where a thunderous explosion shook a Philadelphia neighborhood, injuring five individuals and demolishing at least two homes.
In both cases, a gas leak was to blame. Therefore, detecting and fixing gas leaks promptly is crucial.
Carbon Emissions
You can find methane in natural gas used in homes as it’s a major component. Plus, it’s a lot more powerful than carbon dioxide. This means that if there’s a gas leak, it can increase the amount of potent methane in the atmosphere.
According to reports, methane is responsible for more than 25 percent of the global warming we are witnessing today. Moreover, if you’re exposed to methane gas due to a gas leak, it can lead to the following health issues:
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Health Hazards
A small gas leak that is caught early and fixed isn’t harmful to your health. However, long-term exposure to gas can have adverse effects on your health. For example, inhaling deeply concentrated gas can cause asphyxia and lead to possible death.
The common symptoms of asphyxia include chest pains and fatigue. In addition, unburnt gas releases a carbon monoxide by-product, which may lead to monoxide poisoning.
Moreover, a reduced amount of oxygen in the atmosphere can result in symptoms like dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and headache. If the gas inhalation continues, it can induce pneumonia, vomiting, irregular breathing, nausea, and memory loss.
How to Detect Gas Leaks?
Check for the Smell
As mentioned above, you can’t hear or see a gas leak. But that doesn’t mean you can’t smell it, either. Most gas companies add a foul-smelling gas known as mercaptan into natural gas, giving it a unique smell. This means it is easy to detect in case there’s a leak.
The odor is similar to the smell of a rotten egg or Sulfur. So if you ever smell such an odor in your home, you should immediately consider a gas leak and call the gas plumbing service experts.
Whistle or Hissing Sounds
The sound may not be very prominent, but if you listen closely, you can hear a slight hissing or whistling sound. This is the sound of a potential gas leak. This sound can be deciding as a malfunctioning air conditioner might sound the same. So be careful and try to locate the source of the sound. If you can’t do it, it’s best to enlist the help of professional plumbers.
Gas Leak Detector
A gas leak detector is the most accurate way to locate a gas leak. The device can help with prompt detection, minimizing the risk of hazards like fires, explosions, and poisoning. There are plenty of options out there, so consult your plumber before choosing the best one.
Soapy Water Test
A traditional method to detect a gas leak is the soapy water test. Mix a tablespoon of dish detergent into the water, and mix it until it combines. Pour the soapy water into the place you suspect a gas leak, for example, a juncture or connection, and see if bubbles form as they indicate the spot where gas is escaping from.
Best Gas Plumbing Services in Rowlett, Texas
As mentioned in the post, gas leaks can be very destructive if they are not repaired on time. If you need help detecting gas leak repairs in Rowlett TX, there’s no one better than professional gas plumbing services providers.
Wasden Plumbing Services is a family-owned business in Rowlett, Texas. They offer several effective residential and commercial plumbing services like water or sewer line installations, water heaters, garbage disposal installation, including gas leak detection.
From fixture replacements and plumbing repairs to installing new fixtures and pipes, they cater to a variety of your plumbing needs and have more than 20 years of industry experience.
Get an estimate right here, or call them for gas leak detection 24/7.
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