How Do You Fix a Leaky Gas Pipe?

Because it is a clean-burning energy source, natural gas is a preferred choice for many when it comes to cooking and heating their homes. In Asheville, as well as other areas, natural gas is pumped through a complex system of pipes from deep in the earth through your town and into your home. Many of us take working gas and electricity for granted, but these utilities require maintenance to ensure your and your family’s safety.

Gas lines are found above ground and underground, which means that they are exposed to indoor and outdoor weathering elements over time. They can become corroded and deteriorate, so experts recommend that homeowners have any natural gas lines inspected as part of their regular annual maintenance. Failing to do so could result in a gas leak, which can be extremely dangerous and require emergency assistance.

While gas leaks should be inspected and repaired by licensed professionals, it’s always a good idea to be aware of the causes and signs of a gas leak, so you’re prepared to take action in the event of one in your home.

What Are Environmental Signs of Gas Leak?

The signs of a gas leak are both external (environmental, whether indoor or outdoor) and internal (physical or bodily). Gas leaks can be gradual and barely noticeable, so regular maintenance is so necessary. Here’s what to look out for:

• Changes in Vegetation: If you notice patches of slow plant growth around your home’s exterior unrelated to weather or season or indoor plants dying en masse, a gas leak may be the reason.
• Sulfur Odor: One of the most common signs of a gas leak is an increased smell of rotten eggs. While natural gas has no odor naturally, gas companies add a chemical to give it this distinctive smell for safety purposes.
• Higher Gas Bill: Another sign could be a higher gas bill despite no change in your usage.
• Appliance Hissing: Keep an ear out for hissing sounds, whether from the gas line itself or any of your gas appliances. The higher the sound, the more substantial the leak.
• White Mist: An unusual cloud of fog or mist around your home could indicate a gas line leak. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to call a professional to check for you.

If you suspect a leak, don’t hesitate. While options exist to confirm a leak at home, such as wiping soaping water where you suspect gas is leaking to look for bubbles, the best course of action is to reach out to a professional immediately rather than take matters into your own hands.

What Are Physical Symptoms of Gas Leak?

• While there are many external signs of a gas leak, even more, concerning are those that affect your bodily wellbeing. These can include: Headache
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Eye irritation
• Respiratory problems
• Dizziness
• Paleness or unexplained blisters
• Throat irritation

Even if you don’t smell gas or notice any environmental problems in your surroundings, if you and your family are suddenly experiencing any of the above symptoms, reach out to a professional plumbing service to investigate a potential gas leak.

What Should I Do If I Suspect a Gas Leak?

First and foremost, get outside. Next, call a professional. In Asheville, plumbers are equipped and experienced in providing emergency services, including gas line repairs. While you should not attempt to repair your gas leak on your own, the process for doing so that experts like those at Four Seasons in Asheville use are as follows:

1. The first step is always to turn off the gas, as any repairs must be done without gas flowing.
2. Next, remove the plastic outer cover from the gas line, which will expose the line underneath. Even if the gas has been shut off, gloves and a mask should be worn to limit exposure to dangerous fumes.
3. Then, check for cracks, holes, deformities, and irregularities to let you know where the leak may be coming from.
4. After that, you want to detach the gas line from the gas regulator, which relieves the pressure inside the pipe.
5. Using a wrench, crack the line fittings to remove residue gas pressure. High pressure is what causes leaks.
6. Next, clean the line by using acetone to remove impurities. Scuff the surface to even it out.
7. You then want to reattach the gas line loosely enough to avoid new pressure points that can lead to future leaks. Seal any leaks with rubber tape and apply epoxy to seal.
8. To ensure the repairs were successful, you must test the gas line. Leave this to a professional who has foolproof methods for identifying leaks.
9. Finally, reinstall the covers that were initially removed. This is the last step and should ensure a fully repaired gas line.

Gas Line Repairs and Emergency Services

If you’re sure you have a gas leak, don’t try to solve the problem yourself. Forget any last-minute tasks you might think need completing, such as turning lights off or making phone calls. Evacuate immediately and leave all the doors open for ventilation. It is vital to always have an eye on the gas lines at your house. Regular maintenance can prevent more severe gas leaks, and the experts at Four Seasons of Asheville can provide all of your gas line services. Whatever the circumstance, if you smell gas in your home, leave and seek help. For more information or assistance, reach out to us today.