6 Easy Ways to Detect a Gas Leak in Your Home

26 September 2022

Most Australian homes use natural gas as a practical energy source to heat their homes, cook food, dry clothes, and heat water. Although it is mostly safe, gas leaks can cause serious issues for your house and health in specific situations, such as when gas lines are improperly installed or badly maintained.

Gas hazards can be minimised by being aware of gas leak signs and how to fix them quickly. Here are a few simple methods for detecting a gas leak in your house:

Detect Any Sulphur or Rotten Egg Odours

Natural gas businesses typically add an additive called mercaptan to natural gas to give it a distinct smell because most gases lack colour and smell. The odour is frequently detectable in your home and frequently smells like sulphur or rotting eggs. It may be better to investigate the leak’s cause or call a plumber if you notice this specific odour.

Notice Any Whistling or Hissing Sound

You might have a significant gas leak if you hear a whistling or hissing sound close to your gas line. Pay attention to the source of the noise. If it’s coming from the area where your air conditioner is, it can be a refrigerant line issue, a leaky valve, or a damaged compressor.

Perform a Soapy Water Test

To get a concentrated solution, combine one teaspoon of soap with one cup of water. Spray the suspected leaky location with the soap-and-water mixture and watch for bubbles to appear. This suggests that gas is leaking from that location.

Utilise Electronic Detectors

You can buy electronic combustible gas detectors online or at your neighbourhood hardware store to put your ears to another use. They pick up carbon monoxide as well as natural gas and LPG. They may be fixed or portable handheld devices. It has a smoke detector-like audio alarm.

Increase in Gas Bills

If you observe that your gas bills show higher consumption in gas units than the same period in the prior year, you may have a gas leak. Sometimes leaks are so gradual that you cannot detect them by scent or sound, but they may be reflected in your gas bill.

As prices may have changed, always use quantities such as cubic metres, cubic feet, kilograms, litres, or gallons rather than the monetary amount. Keep in mind that factors like colder weather, more gas-powered appliances, or more house guests may result in higher gas consumption.

Observe the Flame Colour

A leak may be present if you see a red or yellow flame indicating a problem with your appliance. In any case, you should have gas appliances serviced at least every two years or more frequently if advised by the manufacturer. It’s likely that your burners only need cleaning.

However, the dangerous gas carbon monoxide production is also indicated by red and yellow flames. Therefore, call a qualified gas fitter from L&C Harding Plumbing for a service, and contact us as soon as you observe this or any of the other indicators listed above.