Four Things That You Shouldn’t Do if You Find a Gas Leak
Every year, people are killed in accidents that occur in the home. One of the most dangerous kinds of home accidents is caused by a
gas leak. This is because gas lines are, in fact, incredibly dangerous, and they can trigger explosion. A layman may think that gas explosions are freak accidents that just happen occasionally. This is not always this case. Early detection and regular inspections, however, will ensure that the gas lines, fittings, and appliances are working correctly eliminating this risk virtually altogether.
If you find a gas leak, here are four things that you should not do.
1. Ignore the Leak… Hoping it Goes Away
This is an extremely dangerous thing to do, as the problem will never correct itself. When a gas line cracks, it will start to leak gas. Over time the leak will never stop, and may get worse. Even a small leak over time can cause pockets of gas to build up in your home. This gas is just waiting for a spark or naked flame to ignite and cause an explosion. As soon as you detect the smell of a gas leak, it is time to turn off any burners, turn off the gas and get your family out of the house.
2. Fix It Yourself Because It’s Just Like Regular Plumbing
Again this is a terrible idea that is very dangerous to your safety. You may be a handy person and know how to plumb in a shower or fit a garbage disposal, but gas is an entirely different proposition. It is very easy to make the problem far worse, and it is most certainly a job best left to a professional. Always use a
certified professional contractor and use a local company with an excellent reputation.
3. Use Electrical Equipment Before the Gas Leak is Fixed
I’m sure that everyone knows that using a naked flame or causing sparks is a sure way to get gas to explode. What you may not know is that using electrical devices can also have the same effect. If you detect a gas leak, in more that one area, turn off all your lights and all your electrical appliances. Many people have forgotten to do this one simple thing and as a result, there was an explosion. If you’re looking for a gas leak, don’t take your cell phone with you and use it to call the plumber when you’re in the house. Always remember, electricity and gas don’t mix well.
4. Use an Uncertified Plumber
There are many contractors in every field of home improvement that are not qualified to do their jobs. The plumbing industry is no different, and it is important to get a qualified person to do the job. Sure, the uncertified guy might be cheaper, but is it worth your life, your family’s and your neighbors’ lives to save a few bucks? There is a good chance that an uncertified contractor will do a poor job anyway, and you can’t get hold of them if something goes wrong with their work. Save yourself a lot of problems, hire a professional
certified plumbing contractor experienced in gas line work first and you will be safer later.
By Giovanni Longo President Flood Brothers Plumbing
Giovanni Longo is a 3rd generation master plumber who has been practicing his craft and trade in the greater Los Angeles area for well over a decade and a half. A plumbing and hydraulics-engineering innovator, Giovanni’s particular world-class expertise focuses on dealing with challenging sewer system designs as well as resolving complex commercial and residential draining issues. As a certified Flood Mitigation expert, he is also well versed in a wide variety of water damage and remediation solutions.
