Potential Gas Leak? What to Do

A gas leak in your home or business is a serious safety risk that cannot be ignored. The following information describes several gas leak signs and provides guidance on what to do if you suspect a gas leak in your building.

Gas Leak Signs

• Odor: Natural gas normally has no odor, but utility companies add a chemical that produces a smell similar to that of rotten eggs. If you notice this smell in your home, and it’s not caused by actual rotten eggs, you may have a gas leak.
• Sounds: Gas leaking from a pipeline can produce hissing or blowing sounds as it escapes. This type of sound could be heard coming from a broken or burst pipe, a loose or damaged connection, or a damaged fitting.
• Visible signs: If you can see damage to gas pipes or fittings, they could also be leaking. If you see dust being blown into the air or bubbles forming in a puddle near a pipeline, there may be a leak. Areas of dead grass or vegetation near underground gas lines could also mean the pipes are leaking.

How to Respond to a Gas Leak

• As in any critical situation, do not panic, but get ready to take immediate action.
• Extinguish any flames, such as on cooking stoves. Put out cigarettes and shut down any devices that could cause sparks. Do not make phone calls or turn on any lights while inside the building.
• If possible and if you have time, shut off gas lines leading into the building and to HVAC systems.
• Leave the building as quickly as possible. Make sure children and pets are accounted for and taken outside with you. Put significant distance between yourself and the building.
• Call your local utility company and report the gas leak. They’ll be able to tell you what to do next.

Rinaldi’s Energy Solutions has nearly five decades of experience in the HVAC industry in Orlando and the neighboring Florida communities. Contact us today for more information on gas leak signs and what to do if you suspect a gas leak in your home.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Orlando, Florida and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

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