How to Tell if Your Furnace is Leaking Gas?
If you suspect gas and feel unwell, leave the home immediately and move to a safe location as quickly as possible. Ensure all windows and doors are open when leaving to help disperse the gas more easily and reduce its risk of explosion. Natural gas is odorless; however, companies add an odorant known as mercaptan to detect leaks more easily. Here are nine signs to tell if your furnace is leaking gas.
Bad Smell Coming Near Furnace
Natural gas in its raw state is odorless; therefore, producers use an odorant known as mercaptan to give it its characteristic sulfur aroma (like that found in rotten eggs). If this aroma can be detected around your furnace or elsewhere in your home, then an undiagnosed slow leak could be to blame.
If a rotten egg smell is pervasive or hissing sounds are heard nearby, immediately evacuate all members of your household and contact the gas utility company. They will give further instructions about what steps need to be taken next.
Remember that an ongoing leak can release carbon monoxide into your home, which could cause nausea and headaches as soon as hours later! Here are some false smells and what do those smells mean.
Hissing Sounds Coming From Furnace
Modern gas furnaces are economical and easy to maintain; however, like any mechanical equipment, they can experience intermittent failures that lead to dangerous leaks that could result in illness and house fires.
- If you hear an annoying clicking noise from your furnace, turn it off immediately and relocate until a professional can inspect it.
- It could indicate a flaw with its flame sensor or a broken igniter that needs attention.
- When turning on your system, an audible “bang” could indicate gas leakage.
- This is usually caused by delayed ignition, which could crack open your heat exchanger.
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Burning Smells In The Room
If you notice a burning smell in your room, this could indicate gas leakage from an improperly installed heat exchanger or airflow blockage in your furnace. Before returning home, a professional inspection must be conducted as soon as possible.
- Natural gas is odorless; however, utility companies add an odor-producing sulfur compound, mercaptan, to detect and warn customers of potential leaks.
- Unfortunately, its distinctive rotten egg scent often stands out prominently.
- If these sounds are heard inside your home, turn off all furnace gas sources immediately while opening all windows and vents for air circulation.
Sudden Increase In Gas Utility Bills
While some unavoidable factors may increase your natural gas bill, if it suddenly spikes significantly higher for seemingly no discernible reason, it could indicate a leak in the line that leads to overconsumption and consequently leads to a much higher bill than usual.
Other signs of gas leakage include air bubbles in standing water or vegetation, browning shrubbery, and dead houseplants (as natural gas prevents plant roots from taking in oxygen, leading to their death). If your pilot flame burns orange or yellow, it could indicate a leak. Here are some ways to get maximum efficiency from your furnace.
Smell Of Rotten Eggs Near Furnace
Natural gas itself is odorless; however, federal law mandates that gas companies add an additive known as mercaptan to make it identifiable and detectable. Leakage from natural gas pipes gives off an unpleasant rotten egg scent, making detecting leakage easy – you smell rotten eggs!
Long-term exposure to gas leaks can result in carbon monoxide poisoning, which causes headaches, dizziness, inability to focus, and nausea. In extreme cases, even unconsciousness and death can occur from carbon monoxide exposure. Proper maintenance and care can increase the overall lifespan of your furnace.
Sulfur Smells in Furnace
Your furnace works tirelessly to circulate fresh air throughout your home. However, an unpleasant odor may sometimes emanate from its vents; this usually indicates a gas leak.
If you detect an unpleasant sulfur-like odor reminiscent of rotten eggs, this could indicate that there is something amiss with your gas line or ductwork. By law (mercaptan), natural gas contains this additional scent, making leaks easier to detect.
When you detect a foul smell or hear hissing near your furnace, evacuate immediately and contact a professional repairman immediately for repairs. A gas line leak poses a fire and explosion risk; thus, it should be treated as urgent.
Visible Damage To Gas Lines Or Connections
Visible damage to gas lines or connections indicates a potential gas leak. If you notice any wear or corrosion on the lines, acting quickly is crucial. A damaged gas line can lead to natural gas exposure, which poses significant health risks.
If you smell gas near these lines, it indicates a leak that requires immediate attention. Ensure everyone’s safety by evacuating the area and contacting your gas company. They will guide you on the necessary steps to take.
Additionally, locate and turn off the gas shutoff valve to prevent further leakage. Always prioritize safety and never attempt to repair gas lines yourself – leave it to the professionals.
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Feeling Lightheaded Or Fatigued Indoors
If you feel lightheaded or fatigued while indoors, it might be a warning sign of a gas leak. Leaking gas can lead to the buildup of carbon monoxide, a dangerous and odorless gas. Installing a carbon monoxide detector can help alert you to this harmful gas in your home.
Physical symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, or nausea can be early indicators of gas exposure, especially if they occur when using appliances like your gas stove. Should you experience these symptoms, it’s crucial to act quickly. Evacuate the house immediately and contact your local fire department for assistance.
They are equipped to handle gas leaks and can ensure your home is safe. Remember, never attempt to locate the source of the leak on your own; leave it to professionals to address any issues with your gas lines or appliances.
Conclusion
Recognizing the signs of a gas leak in your home is crucial for ensuring the safety of your household. Be vigilant for unusual gas smells, hissing sounds, or visible damage to your gas supply lines. If you suspect a leak, immediately evacuate your home and contact your gas company. Always locate and turn off the gas valve to prevent further leakage. Prioritizing safety and being aware of these indicators can protect you and your family from the dangers associated with gas leaks.
Stay Safe with Our Professional Furnace Repair Services
Don’t take chances if you’ve noticed any signs of a gas leak or suspect issues with your furnace. Contact our expert technicians for a thorough inspection and reliable repair. Green Street HVAC will ensure your furnace runs safely and efficiently with our furnace repair service to keep your home warm and hazard-free. Contact us today to schedule your service and restore peace of mind!
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