While installing a carbon monoxide detector can help reduce carbon monoxide poisoning risk, it’s not reliable for finding gas leaks.
Carbon monoxide, but not raw fuel or gas fumes, is what a carbon monoxide detector will pick up on. It will alert you to the presence of the gas after it has leaked for long enough to fill your home’s air with a dangerous concentration, but it will not prevent the leak itself.
A gas leak poses a risk even before enough carbon monoxide is created to trigger an alarm. This is because a spark from any electrical source can cause a detonation. Let’s find out how to protect your family from a gas leak in your home.
Carbon Monoxide Or Natural Gas?
Carbon monoxide is difficult for the human nose to detect, but it is known to cause a rapid loss of consciousness. The gas companies add mercaptan to make the otherwise odorless natural gas smell like sulfur or rotten eggs. A hissing noise or damaged gas pipe can also identify natural gas leaks.
However, failing to have a comprehensive gas detection system could have disastrous consequences. In addition to the high flammability of natural gas, carbon monoxide can be lethal under certain conditions. You may be exposed to a sudden fire, explosion, or toxic gas without warning. Install a dependable gas detection system in your home to detect dangerous carbon monoxide and methane levels.
How To Check For A Gas Leak?
You’ll usually detect the odor of leaking gas before carbon monoxide reaches dangerous levels. If you’re unsure, turn off the pilot light on your gas stove, furnace, or water heater, open the windows, and get anyone in danger out of the way. Notify authorities immediately, and only attempt to reenter the house once a professional has determined it is safe.
How To Prevent Gas Leaks?
Aside from being proactive about detecting air quality issues in your home, you can also prevent gas leaks and other potentially hazardous sources of carbon monoxide by performing routine maintenance on furnaces, stoves, fireplaces, and other gas-powered equipment.
Additionally, ensure that any space where gas is used, whether a furnace, a stove, or a generator, is adequately ventilated. Lastly, set a monthly schedule for testing your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors, and replace batteries annually.
What’s Next?
Don’t rely on your carbon monoxide detector to alert you when the gas is flowing. If you smell it, get out of the house immediately and go across the street—and once outside in safety, call a professional.
At Gray Plumbing, we have the expertise and resources to quickly identify and fix any problems with your gas system. With our gas leak repair services, you can rest assured that your house is once again secure for your family’s return. If your gas system is not operating correctly, don’t wait for an emergency to happen. Contact Gray Plumbing today for our expert gas leak repair services.
