According to the American Gas Association, more than half of U.S. homes use natural gas for space heating and home appliances. Natural gas is indeed one of the safest and cleanest fossil fuels. It is also highly combustible, so if you happen to have a gas leak, you are at risk of fire and explosion. Only one electrical spark can initiate the combustion. That’s why if you spot a leak, you should immediately call your trusted 24-hour plumbing service San Diego and have the problem solved as soon as possible. Large gas leaks are far easier to detect by smell, but smaller ones may go unnoticed for a long time. Exposure to natural gas can affect your health and cause natural gas poisoning. If you or your family members experience sudden and unexplained symptoms like dizziness, nausea, fatigue, headache and respiratory problems, you should act promptly. Exposure to high or extreme levels of natural gas can cause unconsciousness and may even be deadly.
“Rotten egg” odor
Natural gas is actually odorless, colorless and tasteless. This is why it’s distributed with an odor additive. To help detect a gas leak, utility companies add a chemical called mercaptan, which contains sulfur. It’s a smell which is hard to miss. If you smell a “rotten egg” odor in your home, it’s a tell-tale sign of a gas leak.
Hissing sound
If you hear a hissing sound coming from the area around a gas appliance or a gas line, it means you have a substantial gas leak.
Dead vegetation
Plants that die without an obvious reason and spots of brown grass in your yard near the gas line may indicate an underground gas leak. It blocks the plants’ source of oxygen so they will change color. If you notice discolored or dead plants surrounded by the healthy green ones, be sure to call a professional to find the source of the gas leak and get the issue resolved.
White mist or fog
If you notice an unusual cloud of mist or fog around your house, it could mean you have a ruptured gas line. You may even see a flame that seems to burn above the ground.
Bubbles
A leak in a gas pipe may sometimes cause bubbling in moist areas around your house.
Air
Air coming from the ground or dirt and plants getting kicked up in the air are possible signs of a gas leak. If you spot signs of a gas leak, don’t try to turn off the gas or find the source of the leak. Don’t turn any electrical appliances or switches on or off. Even a small spark could cause the explosion. If the smell is in the house and it’s safe to do so, open up windows and doors to ventilate the area. Otherwise, leave the area immediately.
Call the best 24-hour plumbing service San Diego
Keep in mind that you should have your gas line inspected regularly to avoid a gas leak or extensive gas line repair. If you do notice some of the aforementioned signs, contact Plumbing Plus, a reliable 24-hour plumbing service San Diego. Our reliable, experienced and skilled technicians will arrive promptly, ready to resolve any issues you may have. We will eliminate the risk of a hazardous gas explosion and make sure you and your family remain safe. Plumbing Plus also offers the San Diego community certified, licensed and insured gas line installation. We will present you with the most cost-efficient solutions and give you an upfront quote for the entire process.