Many people are surprised to learn that it’s a plumber who installs and maintains gas lines in a home. When those gas lines develop problems such as leaks, it’s also the plumber who repairs them, as fixing a gas leak isn’t a job for a layperson. Here are seven ways a professional plumber helps with a gas leak and you should contact them immediately if you suspect one.
1. They’ll Inspect the Entire System
Even if the plumber knows where the leak is coming from, they’ll check all the gas-dependent appliances, including boilers, furnaces, and water heaters. That way they can see whether the components of these appliances are sound or whether they need some troubleshooting.
2. They Use State of the Art Equipment
Plumbers can detect even a tiny gas leak with nothing more than soapy water. They paint the area with water, and if bubbles form, there’s a leak. However, plumbers also use state-of-the-art equipment to detect and repair gas leaks. A professional plumber who’s notified of a gas leak brings a gas detection kit with them. These kits may include pressure meters, deck plates, soil probes to check for gas leaks underground, an open flame detector, infrared cameras, line locators, and pressure meters that help the plumber find broken pipes. They’ll also find out how much gas is left in the gas line. The homeowner’s gas company should be able to provide that information.
3. Education
The plumber also educates the homeowner on how to both prevent and detect gas leaks. They’ll tell them how to familiarize themselves with the gas system. This includes knowing where the pipes are, how they’re connected, and how to read their gas meter. They’ll also show the homeowner where the main valve is in case they need to shut the gas off in an emergency.
4. Preventative Maintenance and Regular Inspections
Prevention is always better than a cure. A professional plumber not only responds to emergencies but also offers routine maintenance and inspections to prevent future leaks. Regular check-ups can catch early signs of wear or corrosion in gas lines, ensuring that small issues are resolved before they escalate into major problems. Scheduled maintenance helps prolong the lifespan of your gas system and minimizes the risk of unexpected leaks.
5. Emergency Response and Rapid Repair
When a gas leak is detected, time is of the essence. Professional plumbers are trained to respond rapidly in emergencies, providing immediate intervention to secure your home. They follow strict protocols to shut off the gas supply safely, preventing further leakage and reducing the risk of fire or explosion. Their prompt action and efficient repair work can mitigate damage and safeguard the well-being of everyone in the household.
6. Compliance with Safety Standards and Building Codes
Gas line installations and repairs are subject to stringent safety standards and building codes. A reputable professional plumber ensures that all work complies with local regulations and industry guidelines. This not only protects your home but also ensures that any repairs or upgrades are performed correctly and safely. By adhering to these standards, the plumber minimizes legal liabilities and enhances the overall safety and reliability of your gas system.
7. Long-term Solutions and System Upgrades
Sometimes, a gas leak is a symptom of an outdated or compromised gas system. In these cases, a professional plumber will recommend long-term solutions that go beyond temporary fixes. This might involve replacing old pipes, upgrading gas-dependent appliances, or reconfiguring the layout of the gas network. Investing in a comprehensive overhaul can prevent recurring issues and improve the overall efficiency and safety of your home’s gas infrastructure
The plumber may encourage the homeowner to install a carbon monoxide detector because even a leak of natural gas can cause carbon monoxide levels to rise in the house. Carbon monoxide is tasteless, odorless, and colorless and is deadly in large amounts.
Though a gas leak repair isn’t for a DIYer, the plumber may also teach the homeowner how to apply a temporary fix such as s epoxy to a small leak before the plumber arrives. The plumber might also teach the homeowner how to check their gas-dependent appliances and stress that they need to check those appliances regularly. They’ll also warn them to be vigilant about their gas system if they do any home renovations.
It’s important to add that if a homeowner detects a leak, they need to open all the doors and windows on their way out of the house and call their utility company to have their gas line shut off if they can’t find the main valve. The gas that powers a house is actually odorless, but a chemical called mercaptan is added to give it that unmistakable rotten egg smell. This smell is a sign that gas is leaking, as is a hissing sound from a gas appliance or a gas line.
