Gas leaks are very common in our home. They can be very dangerous due to the increased chances of them causing a fire, explosion or even carbon monoxide poisoning. They can go unnoticed for a long period of time because some of them, such as carbon monoxide is colorless and also odorless. Below are the leading causes of these leaks and how to fix them.
Common Causes Of Gas Leaks
Faulty Piping
Piping from outside gets the gas into the home by crisscrossing under it, to connect the appliances, to the source. This piping can, with time, become faulty and lose its seal or even break off due to wearing off. This will, therefore, cause a gas leak.
Poor Ventilation
Carbon dioxide, along with natural and propane gas, can leak in the home due to poor ventilation or malfunctioned exhaust fans. Carbon monoxide can also leak into the home if the chimney is clogged. It is odorless, unlike natural gas and propane, hence a person may fall asleep and never wake up due to this.
Checking For A Gas Leak
Gas leaks can occur in many places in the home. The most common areas are where pipes join together at the fittings, such as flex lines, tees, regulators and valves. These should be checked regularly. Also, these leaks can come from black iron piping corrosion that is not appropriately protected. When you smell something that gas a sulphur type smell such as those of rotten eggs near the gas pipes, you should call a plumber as soon as possible to fix it.
Gas leaks are hazardous and should be taken care of as soon as you smell that something is wrong. Calling a plumber is the best thing to do after noting that there is a leak since they will conduct proper testing to locate it, do repairs and inspections.