Many Australians are taking advantage of the affordability associated with adding natural gas to their homes. Using natural gas is regarded to be more efficient and eco-friendly than electricity. Modern appliances are available in gas versions, which makes it super easy to switch out all your old units for their gas counterparts.

As reliable and convenient as gas is, it can also be incredibly dangerous. Installing your gas appliances should only be done by the plumber Brisbane locals rely on for all gas fittings. Homeowners switching to gas should also know what signs may indicate a potential gas leak. This post takes a more in-depth look at these signs.

Know the Signs

Generally, gas systems are well known for being remarkably versatile. You can use gas everywhere in your home and outdoor entertainment area. From cooking to gas water heaters, the options of adding gas appliances to your home are vast.

Despite the many advantages of gas, it can turn deadly if not properly maintained. Gas leaks occur when gas lines leak carbon monoxide or natural gas. Gas is highly flammable, and a leak could lead to an explosion. If gas is inhaled, it can cause respiratory problems and could eventually be fatal. With these risks to consider, our team of experts have compiled a list of the top signs you should be aware of.

There’s an Unusual Hissing Sound in Your Home

A clear indication of a gas leak is a hissing sound near your gas lines. The hissing sound will usually be coming from the area where the leak is. If you hear a hissing sound, it’s a definite indication of a much larger leak.

This is not something you should try and repair yourself. You’ll need to call your gas installer immediately and remove all people and pets from the area. Plumbers urge new gas users to never attempt any gas fittings or repairs as a DIY job.

Your Home Suddenly Starts Smelling Like Rotten Eggs

One of the more significant indicators of a gas leak is the familiar rotten egg smell. In previous years, gas was odourless, making it impossible to detect a leak. In recent years, though, gas companies have added an additive that gives gas a distinctive smell, making the leak easier to identify. This substance is called methanethiol. While the additive itself is harmful to you and your family, it’s a clear sign that you have a gas leak.

Your Previously Healthy Pot Plants are Dying

If you have pot plants in your home, they can provide you with signs that your home has a gas leak. Pot plants around the house might also start dying when they detect as in the air. Plants in general are extremely sensitive to gas.

One dead plant might not be a concern. If it appears that all your plans are showing sudden signs of decay, especially within short succession, it may be time to check if any of the other signs are present.

You See Small Bubbles When You Test Your Gas

If you suspect there’s a gas leak in your home, then there’s a quick and easy test you can do that will confirm a leak. The test is commonly known as the “small bubble test”. Here’s how you do it:

  • Turn your gas on.
  • Mix some water and a small quantity of dish soap in a container.
  • Wipe the area where you suspect the gas leak is coming from by using a sponge
  • If you start seeing bubbles, it’s a clear sign of a gas leak.
  • Bubbles that show up in wet areas are a possible sign of an underground leak.

Look Out for Unusual Fog in Your Home

Another common sign that you may see around a gas leak is fogging in your home. This fog appears as a mist and won’t usually be present around your gas appliances and lines. The fog comes from a broken gas line and will get worse the longer the line leaks.

People in Your Home Start Feeling Flu-Like Symptoms

While you may not be able to clearly see a gas leak, exposure to it will have a negative effect on your health. You or people in your household will start displaying flu-like symptoms, even when they don’t have the flu. These symptoms can develop overnight and without any other real reason.

A few of the more common symptoms of gas exposure are listed as:

  • Nausea
  • Chest pain
  • Unexplained headaches
  • Irregular breathing
  • Drowsiness
  • Flu-like symptoms

Anyone with these symptoms should be taken to the doctor immediately. Open windows and doors in the home to add ventilation. This can help dissipate the gas until your emergency plumber arrives.

Final Thoughts

Using gas in your home is both economical and energy-efficient and is the preferred choice in many homes. Knowing what the tell-tale signs of a gas leak are will go a long way toward keeping your family, home, and appliances safe. Always refer any gas issue to a professional plumber to ensure the issue is dealt with quickly and safely!