Gas Leak Signs and What To Do

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, we often take for granted our much-needed gas appliances. But the moment the unnoticed smell gas becomes noticeable, it's usually a sign of a pretty significant concern - you've got yourself a gas leak.

Understanding how to spot a gas leak, knowing the potential razzle-dazzle it may lead to, and how to respond when you’re suspecting one can tip the balance between a reasonable event and a ripper fiasco.

Recognising a Gas Leak

Gas leaks in your home aren’t just restricted to the smell of gas. They can flash numerous signs, each of which needs your immediate attention.

• Physical signs: If you’re constantly battling headaches, feeling dizzy, queasy, irritations in your eyes and throat or just feeling unnecessarily whacked out, chances are that you’re experiencing the effects of a gas leak. Severe situations can even bring about breathing difficulties or chest discomfort.
• Environmental hints: Your very own castle can clue you in with several hints about a potential gas leak. Discolouration above your underground pipes, water acting on the goat, dust blowing all over the shop, or your plants near the gas metre wilting all point towards a gas leak.
• Gas appliances: Your gas appliances, whether it’s your trusty gas stove or your reliable gas heater, are potential culprits for leaks. If they’re playing up or their pilot lights are giving you the heave-ho, they could be indicating a gas leak inside your house.

What’s the Go with Gas Leaks?

When there’s a gas leak, the escaping gas mixes with the surrounding air. This gas, especially if it’s LP gas, gives off an unmistakable whiff that bears a resemblance to rotten eggs. This specific smell is added to normally odourless natural gas to wave the red flag about leaks.

And gas leaks ain’t something to be taken lightly. Natural gas is flammable, and a significant gas leak can cause a fire or explosion if it gets chummy with an ignition source, such as naked flames or electrical appliances.

Furthermore, gas leaks put you at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, a serious condition that occurs from incomplete burning of natural gas.

Responding to a Gas Leak

Knowing how to recognise a gas leak sure is important, but understanding how to react when it happens is crucial.

1. Safety first: If you suspect a gas leak, turn off the gas supply at the metre right away, provided you can do so without a hitch. Open up doors and windows to help the gas escape. It’s knee-high to a grasshopper to avoid all ignition sources – in simple terms, don’t light a match or use anything electrical. And if you can help it, don’t even whip out your mobile phone while you’re still inside.
2. Call for back-up: If you sniff out gas or suspect there’s a leak, give a call to your local gas distributor. These folks, who are part of the Australian Gas Association, have dedicated hotlines for such situations. And if you find yourself in the thick of it, like a fire or explosion, contact the emergency services without hesitation.

Remember – dealing with gas leaks ain’t a DIY kind of deal. It involves tinkering with your gas supply and gas appliance, which can turn shady for the unskilled. Always rely on a licensed gas fitter to sort out potential leaks.

The Role of Professionals in Fixing Gas Leaks

Getting a professional involved, like a licensed gas fitter, is super important when dealing with gas leaks. Gas fitters bring to the table the skills and know-how to locate and fix gas leaks safely.

They understand the workings of your home’s gas distribution network, can check out your gas metre and gas appliances, and ensure your home is gas-safe.

Avoiding Gas Leaks

Prevention is always better than cure, especially when it comes to gas leaks. Regularly service your gas appliances by a licensed gas fitter, and be familiar with the location of your gas metre and how to shut off the gas in case of an emergency.

Being aware of gas leaks, the signs, the appropriate response, and the importance of professional gas fitters is pretty crucial. By sharing this information, we can all help ensure our homes stay gas-safe. In the event of a gas leak, a quick and correct response can prevent a molehill from turning into a mountain.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.