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Take Immediate Steps To Protect Yourself From A Gas Leak
If you smell gas in your house it is absolutely vital you deal with the cause without delay. This is because if it ignites it is extremely dangerous and potentially lethal. It can destroy property and even worse, kill. Natural gas does not actually have an odor. However, an odor is added artificially before it is circulated through the main pipes to your home. The idea of giving gas a smell is to provide a warning should it leak. To help you prevent health issues, we have created an outline of what to do if you smell gas in your living space.
Top Causes Of Gas Leaks
Of course not all gas emergencies are caused by a damaged gas line on your property. They can also be caused because a gas stove has been inadvertently left on and not lit, a pilot light extinguishing, or a malfunctioning gas furnace. Whatever the reason, it is important you take immediate steps to protect yourself, your family and your home.
Steps to Take When You Discover a Gas Leak
The first step to take when you discover a gas leak is to clear the affected room of as much gas as possible. On entering a room or area of the home where there is a smell of gas, open the windows and doors to ensure the gas escapes. This is a very necessary and sensible move and will help reduce the possibility of an explosion.
Matches and candles should not be lit, even if it is dark, because the flame will ignite the gas and cause an explosion. The same could happen if any electrical equipment is switched on or a light switch flicked.
Identifying The Source Of The Smell Of Gas
Only when it is safe should an attempt be made to identify what is causing the gas smell or leak in your house. One of the most common causes is that the gas stove has been left on or not lit, or the pilot light for the HVAC system has gone out. The stove is the easiest to deal with as it is just a case of switching it off.
It may also be possible to re-ignite the pilot light in your furnace. It is always wise to call a professional to help you fix your malfunctioning pilot light to avoid damage to your system. If you believe the source of your gas leak is your HVAC system or furnace, you should shut down the system and call an HVAC contractor to prevent health issues.
If the smell of gas in the home is severe and the problem cannot be dealt with or is continuing then the gas should be cut off at the mains. It is essential that the utility company is contacted immediately. The supplier will have an emergency number to ring for these occasions.
Tips & Insights: Why Does My Furnace Keep Running?
Other Sensible Steps To Take
One of the best and simplest precautions to ensure there are no gas emergencies in the home is to ensure that all gas utilities are serviced regularly, at least once a year. At the time these items are installed it is wise to check whether there is a service plan available.
HVAC Repair & Installation Services
Our team is equipped with the tools required to fix severe gas leaks in your living space. If you notice a gas smell in your house, book an appointment with our staff to receive help with a damaged furnace or heating system. Our licensed technicians offer various types of plumbing HVAC services including furnace repair, heat pump system installation, air conditioning repair, boiler replacement, and water heater repair. Our team will take the time to study your home, understand your requirements, and show you all of your options to ensure you choose the correct system. Give our staff a call by phone at 1-800-642-4419 to receive assistance with a gas leak in your living space.