Gas leaks in your home can be detrimental to your health. Over the past three years, there have been a reported 31 deaths and over 1,000 injuries related to gas leaking or lack of gas leak detections. Because of this, How do you know if there is a gas leak in your home? Typically, you would be able to smell a faint scent of gas, but in some cases, there is no scent. There are many ways to identify if there is a gas leak in your home. The quicker you identify the signs, the less it can harm your family.

What Causes Gas to Leak?

Gas is the natural element that provides heat to your appliances and water heaters. Although gas is necessary for proper daily function in your home, if a leak occurs, it can cause problems to your health. Why would gas be leaking into your home? Gas leaks are typically caused by:

Poor or damaged connection to appliance. Even the smallest opening in the gas line that is connected to an appliance can leak gas into your home.
Natural occurrences like earthquakes, flooding and other circumstances can cause your gas lines to become loose or cracked
Excessive heat in grueling summer months can cause cracking on exposed pipes
Old pipes. This is one of the most common reasons for gas leaking. Old pipes are more susceptible to cracks and tears that will make it easier for gas to escape.

How Can I Identify A Gas Leak?

As mentioned before, one of the easiest ways to identify a gas leak is to smell it. Gas emits a certain odor that is easily identifiable, but if you are cooking or have other strong odors in your home, you may not be able to identify a gas smell. Here are some of the most common symptoms of a gas leak in your home:

Dead vegetation near pipelines
Unusual sound, like whistling or hissing
The feeling of nausea or dizziness
Fatigue
Irregular breathing
Excessive condensation on windows

How To Prevent A Gas Leak?

Gas leaks are very easy to prevent. Your local HVAC specialist can help you with regular gas line maintenance to ensure that you will never be in danger of a leak. They can also repair gas lines or install new gas lines in your home if your pipes have become damaged. There are many simple ways to maintain your lines on your own as well. If you are looking for at home gas line safety and maintenance tips, try the following:

Check your gas appliances yearly
Check for warning signs that your appliance is not functioning properly
Get a carbon monoxide alarm
Know the symptoms of a gas leak, listed above, for faster detection
Always check that your gas line technician is Gas Safe registered

The sooner you identify the problem, the less likely you and your family members will experience harmful health related risks. The small cost it takes to repair or maintain your gas lines is worth risking your life. If you believe that you are experiencing a gas leak in your home, call a technician immediately.

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