How Do You Know If You Have a Gas Leak in Marlborough, MA?

How do you know if you have a gas leak? It’s an important question for any homeowner with a non-electric furnace. As the trusted plumbers in Marlborough, MA, Pro Comfort Control can answer every question.

From Williams Street to Concord Road East, we’re passionate about keeping our friends and neighbors safe. Keep reading to discover what to do in this emergency.

Why Is a Gas Leak Dangerous?

Natural gas is a highly flammable chemical that can cause an explosion. However, the risks also include health problems that could result in hospitalization or worse.

What should homeowners do when they detect methane?

1. Immediately exit the home without using a light switch or cell phone.
2. Call the utility company to switch off the gas.
3. Schedule emergency repairs with an HVAC company.
4. Return home once the professionals deem it safe.

Stay Vigilant for These Signs in Marlborough

Marlborough homeowners who pay attention to the following signs can detect leaks early and avoid serious complications.

Hissing Sounds and Sulfur Smells

A hole in a gas line could produce a hissing sound as the substance pushes itself through a small hole. Homeowners hear it most often in the pipes connected to their furnace, stove, or dryer.

While natural gas doesn’t have an innate smell, utility companies add a scent to help people identify it. Many homeowners report it smells like sulfur or rotten eggs. If you detect this odor, follow the emergency procedures.

The Presence of Bubbles in Mud

How do you know if you have a gas leak? The lines run under the yard, so the symptoms may not manifest within the home. However, it’s still a serious issue that needs immediate attention.

When the gas escapes the pipe, it forms a bubble in moist ground. After it rains, you may see them in muddy parts of the yard.

Plants Start Dying Around the Home

When methane has seeped throughout the home for a while, it can cause a rise in dead plants. The methane displaces oxygen and prevents flowers from obtaining proper nutrition. If you don’t normally have an issue caring for greenery, call a plumber for an inspection.

Severe Health Complications

The health complications of prolonged methane exposure are perhaps the most concerning signs. Depending on the severity of the leak, it could produce symptoms in just a few minutes or after several weeks. The most common physical manifestations include:

• Dizziness or headaches: Frequent and severe dizziness or headaches are one of the earliest signs.
• Breathing difficulties: Many homeowners report difficulty breathing during a natural gas leak. This leads to long-term complications without immediate assistance.
• Nausea: Exposure to methane and carbon monoxide makes a person feel nauseous, even to the point of regularly throwing up.
• Throat and eye irritation: You may notice red or itchy eyes and a scratchy, dry throat. 
• Fatigue: Exposure to methane can lead to long-term fatigue, exhaustion, and sleep problems. Many people report feeling constantly lethargic or slow.
• Appetite problems: Carbon monoxide and methane often reduce a person’s appetite, making it even harder to stay healthy.

Unexplainable Increases in Energy Bills

How do you know if you have a gas leak? An increased utility bill shows that a home uses the chemical even when appliances aren’t running.

Confirm this by looking for a gas meter reading change even when devices aren’t activated. Without a leak, the numbers shouldn’t climb higher.

Protecting the Home From Dangerous Leaks

You can greatly reduce or eliminate the risk of developing a problem. Follow these tips for preventing gas leaks.

Schedule Regular Inspections

Have a professional inspect the line at least once a year. They can detect most issues before they cause problems in the home. Consider it an investment in your family’s safety.

Upgrade Old Appliances

Old gas appliances are more likely to spring leaks. Consider upgrading any model over a decade old. Also, have a professional inspect your appliance yearly.

Never DIY Plumbing Work

Improper installation is a major cause of leaks and other plumbing problems. Never cut corners when it comes to things like plumbing and electricity. Invest in working with the best professionals you can find.