Natural gas has quickly become a commonly used fuel for cooking, heating, electricity generation, industrial processes, even car fuel. It offers a variety of benefits, including:
- Cleaner Burning
- Reduced Carbon Dioxide Emissions
- Relatively Low Cost
- Versatility
However, like any other system, with time and use gas systems can develop issues, such as leaks. A natural gas leak is a serious situation involving your health. Effective gas leak detection and repair are crucial for ensuring safety, reducing environmental impact, and maintaining the integrity of gas distribution systems. If you suspect you have a gas leak, immediate action is required!
How to know if there is a natural gas leak?
Because natural gas is colorless and odorless, it can be very difficult to detect leaks without intervention. For this reason, a chemical called mercaptan is added to natural gas to give it a distinctive odor. Gas leaks have a couple identifiable signs. For example:
- Smell: This is probably the easiest sign to identify. If you notice the smell of rotten eggs, most likely there is a gas leak.
- Sound: You may hear a hissing or whistling noise around your gas lines or appliances. This is another sign that could indicate a gas leak.
- Sight: Possible visible signs are: water bubbling in the yard, dust flying up into the air unexpectedly, unusual brown spots in the grass, small fires that seem to float above the ground, and a noticeable increase in flies.
If you notice any of these signs, call a professional immediately. Ironwood Plumbing is available 24/7 to handle any natural gas leak!
What to do when there is a natural gas leak
If you think you have a gas leak, evacuate the area immediately. Do not stay inside or try to find the source of the leak. Do not use any electronic devices (phones, computers, light switches) near the area. The safest course of action is to exit the building or area as quickly as possible.
Once outside, call your gas provider and also a licensed professional for assessment. They will provide guidance in the next steps to ensure your safety.
Do not attempt to repair the leak. Professional technicians have the tools and expertise to handle the situation safely. Professional plumbing companies, such as Ironwood Plumbing, will work quickly to get you back to normal as soon as possible and in the safest way possible.
Professional Gas Leak Detection with Ironwood Plumbing
Ironwood Plumbing has over 20 years experience in all aspects of plumbing, including natural gas services. We work with a variety of systems including those constructed with steel, plastic, PVC or polyethylene (or poly pipe) piping.
We use many different tools to pinpoint the exact location of leaks. For example, we use gas sniffers or gas leak detectors to mechanically find leaks. We also provide “leak down” testing. This method pressurizes the system with air to detect possible leaks in the line.
Once the leak is discovered we propose a plan to repair the line. At Ironwood Plumbing our priority is customer safety and satisfaction. Contact us today to learn more about our emergency services and reasonable prices for natural gas leak detection!
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