American homes rely on natural gas for everything from cooking to heating. It is estimated that more than 75 million households currently use gas furnaces during the winter. While natural gas can be incredibly beneficial and convenient, it can also be a major cause of trouble without proper maintenance or immediate intervention. Here, we discuss the various symptoms of a gas leak and when to call a professional to stay safe in Bryan, TX.
1. Dead Indoor or Outdoor Plants
One of the telltale signs of a gas leak is the browning of plants. No matter whether they live indoors or in your yard, if they are browning or showing signs of decay, and there is a natural gas line adjacent to them, a gas leak could be the reason.
2. Smell of Rotten Eggs
Damaged valves in a gas furnace system can cause gas leaks that can either stay there or spread to the rest of the area. If you smell sulfur or rotten eggs, the possibility of a gas leak is high.
3. Wrong-Colored Pilot Flame
Most appliances that use natural gas come with a pilot light that is blue when they’re in proper working order. If you notice an orange or yellow flame, it’s time to call our team at Curry Plumbing. A ruptured gas line will also produce fog or mist around the property, so keep an eye out for foggy air as well.
4. Carbon Monoxide Detector Alert
Whenever fuel is burned, carbon monoxide is produced. During a gas leak, carbon monoxide gets released into the air. If this happens inside your house, your carbon monoxide detector will go off and alert you of the situation. This is especially important during the winter months in Bryan when your windows will stay closed for long periods to keep out the cold.
5. Abnormal Sound
Hissing sounds, which indicate that the furnace is working overtime, could mean your furnace is leaking gas. Remember, if you spot any sign that indicates abnormal behavior, you should immediately call 911 or consult a professional plumbing contractor like Curry Plumbing. Gas leaks are not meant to be a DIY project and shouldn’t be handled like one.
6. Physical Symptoms
A gas leak that continues for too long can wreak havoc on your health. If you notice symptoms like trouble breathing, dizziness, fatigue, flu, headache, nausea, mood change, depression, throat irritation, nosebleed, or chest pain, seek medical assistance immediately. Sometimes, this killer is often silent, so you might experience mild symptoms right now and not know what is causing them.
A gas leak can impact not only your household’s health but that of your pets and neighbors as well. You can count on Curry Plumbing when you encounter gas leaks. Our service combines the wisdom of professionals who have spent decades tending to gas leaks in homes and businesses for disaster prevention. You might find that a safe home and a healthy family are just a phone call away.
