Recognising the Signs of a Gas Leak
Gas leaks can present themselves through multiple signs that affect your senses and physical well-being. Being able to identify these warning signals helps you take quick action to protect yourself and your property from potential hazards.
Physical Symptoms
Gas exposure can cause several health issues that shouldn’t be ignored. You might feel dizzy or experience unexplained headaches while spending time indoors. These symptoms often improve when you leave the affected area.
Feeling unusually tired or weak could signal gas exposure in your home. You might also notice nausea or vomiting that seems to come from nowhere.
If multiple people in your household experience similar symptoms at the same time, this could point to a gas leak. Don’t dismiss these warning signs as just feeling under the weather.
Audible Indicators
A distinct hissing sound near gas pipes or appliances is a strong warning sign. This noise happens when gas escapes through small holes or loose connections.
The sound might be more noticeable in quiet areas or at night. You should check around gas meters, stovetops, and heating systems if you hear unusual noises.
Any whistling or rushing sounds from gas appliances need immediate attention from a licensed gas fitter.
Smells
Natural gas has a distinctive smell similar to rotten eggs. Gas companies add this strong odour deliberately to help detect a gas leak.
The smell might be stronger in enclosed spaces or near gas appliances. If you notice this scent, even faintly, it warrants immediate investigation.
Some people describe the smell as sulphuric or like decaying materials. Trust your nose – if something smells off, it probably is.
Visual Clues
Dead or dying plants inside your home can indicate a gas leak. Gas exposure causes plants to wilt and lose their colour unusually quickly.
Look for bubbles in standing water near gas lines. These bubbles form when gas seeps through the ground and rises through water.
Check for physical damage to gas pipes or connections. Rust, corrosion, or visible cracks need professional attention straight away.
Watch for unusual sounds, dust clouds or dirt being blown into the air near the ground. This might mean gas is escaping from underground pipes.
