Natural gas is commonly used in homes for cooking appliances, heating, and laundry. It is a fossil fuel that's less expensive than electricity. However, natural gas is poisonous when inhaled and can cause long-term issues, which makes leaks extremely dangerous.

Here are some helpful warning signs of natural gas leakage. Please pay attention to them to avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Odd smell

Although natural gas has no scent or color, that's not always the case with its related household utilities. Gas companies usually mix natural gas with an odorant, a gas that adds a strong repulsive smell but doesn't influence the burning process much. If the house smells like rotten eggs, that is probably because of the release of mercaptans, the common odorants for natural gas.

Fizzing sound

Cracked pipes can produce a distinct wheezing sound in buildings or gardens. If the wheezing appears even while the appliances that use natural gas don't work, get the system checked for leaks or plumbing issues immediately.

If some pipes are external (meaning out of the walls), test them for leaks with dish soap and water. Wipe down or spray visible pipes with enough water-soap mixture to coat them. If bubbles appear, a gas leak is almost inevitable.

Air bubbles

Noticing bubbles in standing water around the property, such as puddles and mud, can indicate that the underground piping system is malfunctioning. This is because natural gas travels through the soil, resulting in gas bubbles forming in water.

Dried up plants

Even though plants more commonly wilt from improper care or lack of sunlight, lifeless greenery surrounding the house can indicate a natural gas leak. Natural gas in the ground disables oxygen and nutrient absorption and leads to wilting or tiny and damaged leaves.

Physical reaction and symptoms

The human body is the best gauge of a natural gas leak. Common gas poisoning symptoms include dizziness, breathing issues, chest pain, headaches, eye irritation, and nausea. Contact a nearby medical professional if one suspects gas leak exposure or carbon monoxide poisoning.

Effects on pets

Domestic animals and pets can experience similar symptoms as their owners. They include breathlessness, watering eyes, vomiting, and apathy. Consult with a vet if pets demonstrate such behavior.

Invest in regular inspections

Gas appliance inspections should become a standard household procedure. This relates to stoves, boilers, heaters, and clothes dryers that use gas. A carbon monoxide or natural gas detector can also save time and money and provide peace of mind.

A professional plumber can provide a better insight into the issue. When a gas leak is detected, shut off the gas valve, ventilate the space, and consult professionals and the gas company for further assistance.

If you need a licensed, bonded, experienced plumber for plumbing installation and service in Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Queen Creek, Ahwatukee or San Tan Valley call Norfleet Family Plumbing Heating and Air at 480-681-1764.