Signs a Gas Line Needs Repair
When a gas line leaks for some time, plants growing along it will begin to wither despite being watered.
Malfunctioning gas lines threaten a homeowner's health, environment, and property value because of the gas's poisonous chemical composition and explosive properties. As such, gas lines require more attention than other supply lines.
When carrying out a routine inspection, homeowners should know the signs to look out for when the gas line isn't functioning correctly.
An odor akin to rotten cabbage or eggs
Because natural gas doesn't have a color and a smell, it would be risky for suppliers to distribute it this way. Supply companies add an organic gas called methanethiol or mercaptan as an odorant to make it detectable during leaks. So, when your gas line is loose or broken, it'll have a pungent odor similar to rotten cabbage or eggs. The smell might be more concentrated in severe leaks, and the residents should evacuate the house and contact local authorities.
Withering plants along the gas line
When a gas line leaks for some time, plants growing along it will begin to wither despite being watered. Natural gas displaces oxygen in the soil, which plants roots take in for respiration. Eventually, the plants get suffocated and begin to wither. Also, the methane in the gas increases soil toxicity, destroying essential nutrients and altering the pH plants need for healthy growth. Finally, the gas inhibits the activity of soil microorganisms that help in nutrient recycling, negatively impacting overall plant health.
A drastic increase in gas bills
Most homeowners usually have a range within which their monthly utility gas bill lies. If the gas bill spikes, it might indicate the gas line is leaking. So, while inspecting a gas line, homeowners should check meter readings to see if their gas usage patterns are consistent.
Visible cracks on the exposed gas line
Although the material that makes gas lines is usually durable to prevent leakages, it might develop cracks for various reasons. Some, if not most, underground gas lines are made of cast iron or galvanized steel. Minerals (calcium and magnesium) in the soil can accumulate in the pipe and form scale deposits. Although the scale deposits are not rust, they trap moisture, providing a conducive environment for metal oxidation and causing cast iron or steel to rust and crack.
Sometimes, cracks can occur on the buried line due to pressure from tree roots or freezing and thawing cycles that cause the pipes to expand and contract.
Little to no gas to your appliances
When all home appliances that depend on gas fail to work, the problem could be your gas line. This can happen if sediments and debris have clogged the pipes. It also occurs if the gas valve is wholly or partially stuck or when there's significant leakage along the gas line.
Know when to repair a gas line
Knowing the signs of a faulty gas line can help avoid health and environmental risks. However, homeowners might not have the expertise and tools to carry out such repairs and should contact a professional to check out any suspected leakage.
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.
