If you're like many Gilbert residents, you rely on gas to power your HVAC and hot water infrastructure. While gas leaks are rare, they must be addressed ASAP when they occur. Here's a quick list of actions to take and avoid if you smell a leak.
What You Should Do
Vacate the Premises Immediately
If you detect the smell of rotten eggs, a gas leak is likely the culprit. Dizziness, headaches, and nausea are also common indicators that a leak has occurred. First things first, get everybody out of the house. Be sure to alert the neighbors of the situation.
Open the Doors on the Way Out
The last thing you want is a dangerous accumulation of gas building up inside the home. Leaving a door open will allow some of that gas to disperse while you're waiting for help. If you have a carpeted doormat, be sure to grab it when you leave.
Call Your Utility Company
Once all occupants are out of your home, call your gas company. They'll shut off the gas at the appropriate choke points and ensure that excess gas is vented safely.
Schedule a Repair With A Reputable Contractor
Gas line repairs should only be performed by professionals. Work with a licensed plumber to fix or replace your gas line.
What You Should NOT Do
Start a Vehicle Near the House
Even if you drive an electric vehicle, your automobile can easily ignite a raging gas fire. If your car is parked in the garage, leave it there. Don't even bother opening the garage door. Moving a vehicle parked on the street out of harm's way shouldn't cause any problems.
Turn Off Electrical Appliances
When many homeowners smell gas, their first instinct is to kill the power before they evacuate. Paradoxically, turning off appliances can actually lead to an unintentional fire. Yanking electrical cords out of sockets is an even worse idea. If a lamp or fan is on, leave it on.
Open Any Closed Windows
If you leave the doors open when you leave, you needn't waste time opening windows. Doing so may actually make a fire more likely by allowing the gas concentration to drop to a level where combustion is possible. You can close the blinds to prevent interior temperatures from rising.
Preventing Gas Leaks With EZ Flow Plumbing, LLC
Avoiding dangerous gas leaks comes down to safeguarding the integrity of gas lines and fittings. EZ Flow Plumbing, LLC provides a variety of high-quality gas plumbing services throughout Gilbert and the surrounding area. Whether you need gas line installation, modification, or remediation, our dedicated team is always just a phone call away.