Warning Signs of an Arizona Home Gas Leak

Natural gas is a significant source of energy in the USA.

Natural gas is a significant source of energy in the USA. However, it can become dangerous with improper handling or if there’s an issue or a malfunction. 

Here are several warning signs that indicate a gas leak in Arizona homes:

The smell of rotten eggs 

Many people don’t know that gas is colorless and odorless, making detecting leaks almost impossible. However, gas companies add chemicals or odorants to create an artificial scent for easier detection. This scent is reminiscent of rotten eggs or sulfur. So if homeowners notice a strong smell resembling rotten eggs, there’s likely a gas leak. 

Hissing sounds 

More significant gas leaks often produce a hissing sound, regardless of whether or not the appliance is on. 

Air bubbles 

Natural gas leaks can happen outside the house in underground piping. The presence of air bubbles in standing water is a standard indicator of this scenario. In addition, homeowners may notice air bubbles in puddles and mud, resulting from natural gas traveling from the pipes to the soil and dissipating in the air. 

Dying plants 

One symptom of a gas leak that often goes unnoticed for a long time is dying plants inside and outside a home. Natural gas prevents plants from absorbing oxygen, which causes them to deteriorate and wither. Gas leaks can also cause yellow or smaller-than-normal leaves or yellowish, dry-looking patches of grass. 

Higher gas bills 

Unexplained increases in the gas a household uses could signal a leak. 

Physical symptoms of gas poisoning 

When exposed to gas leaks, people experience numerous symptoms of gas poisoning. Remember that every person reacts differently to gas exposure. Some people may have one or two symptoms, while others will experience all of them. 

Here are a few most frequent symptoms to keep an eye on: 

• Ringing in ears

• Chest pain 

• Nosebleeds

• Reduced appetite

• Dizziness

• Breathing problems 

• Lethargy

Safety tips 

Besides paying attention to the signs of a gas leak, homeowners can take different actions to ensure their and their family’s safety. 

Inspect appliances and devices that use natural gas regularly 

Regular inspections of devices and appliances that use natural gas can help identify minor issues before they become significant problems. Many of these appliances have a pilot light that turns on if there’s something wrong. In such cases, it’s best to call an expert who can pinpoint and resolve the problem. 

Install gas and carbon monoxide detectors 

Minor gas leaks often go unnoticed because the smell isn’t too strong. Moreover, many people have a diminished sense of smell, so they can’t detect even more significant leaks. This is why installing a gas and carbon monoxide detector could be a good idea. 

Call the experts 

Gas leaks are potentially hazardous. If homeowners suspect a gas leak, they should reach out to experts as soon as possible. Trained technicians can inspect the home and establish and resolve the problem in no time. 

Solace Plumbing is a licensed commercial and residential plumber with 26 years of experience in Gilbert, Az. We provide the East Valley with a wide range of plumbing services, including 24-hour emergency service. Some of our specialties include plumbing installation and repair, remodeling, natural gas and propane piping, slab leak detection, and full-service repiping. Commercial work includes restaurants, school districts, and tenant improvements. Call Solace Plumbing at 480-630-0224.