Homeowners, don’t ignore these red flags. Natural gas offers a wonderful way to cook and heat your home, but if your gas lines aren’t maintained properly, you could be in for a world of trouble.

That’s why we’re going to give you a rundown on how to recognize gas line problems. But keep in mind, gas line service is never a DIY project. It always requires professional help. Fortunately we’re one of Katy’s top gas line service companies, and our plumbers are always ready to get in there to do the hard work of keeping you safe.

Here’s the critical warning signs to look out for.

Sign #1: Smell that Smell

This is probably the most famous (or infamous) sign of a gas leak problem: the smell of sulfur, often described as a “rotten egg” smell. This is also the most serious sign of an immediate, dangerous problem.

Action steps:

  • Leave the premises immediately.
  • Don’t touch the lights. Don’t use electronics.
  • Don’t try to locate the leak.
  • Call us from a safe location.

Sign #2: A Hiss That Isn’t a Snake

If you’re hearing hissing or whistling near gas appliances or pipes, even faintly, then you’re listening to a clear indication of gas escaping a pipe or fitting. This is another serious issue requiring immediate attention.

Action steps:

Same as before, but try to turn off the gas supply on your way outside, if possible.

Sign #3: Seeing Signs

In this case, the signs would be visible damage to gas lines or connections. We’re talking about rust, cracks, or loose connections.

Most homeowners don’t stare at their gas lines though. They see the signs on their stove first. Your gas stove should produce healthy blue flames. If they’re coming out yellow or orange, what you’re actually seeing is an issue with the gas-air mixture, which means something is impacting the pressure or flow of your line.

Action steps:

You can stay in the house this time, but turn off the stove and schedule service right away.

Sign #4: A Sudden Black Thumb

Assuming you’re not one of those people who can kill a plant just by looking at it, a sudden plague of dead houseplants is usually a sign that gas leaks are depleting the oxygen in the soil. Plants may breathe in CO2 and breathe out oxygen, but they still need some at the root level to convert sugars into energy.

You may also find you’re feeling pretty icky, too. If you’re nauseated constantly, or drowsy every time you get home, you might be getting sick from a gas leak, and not from whatever bug you picked up at work.

Action steps:

Schedule a gas line inspection.

Sign #5: A Hole in Your Wallet

Not a literal hole, of course. As with any kind of leak, a gas leak comes with an increase in the corresponding utility bill. If you see a significant, unexplained jump in prices and you haven’t increased your usage, then there could be a problem.

Action steps:

Schedule a gas line inspection.

Need an inspection or emergency repair?

Life Line Plumbing is here to help! We offer emergency services to Katy residents 24/7 and are ready to take a look at your lines.

Call (281) 809-0049 to get started today!