Best Tips for Natural Gas Line Repair

Learn about natural gas line repair. 

Natural gas is often used as a source of energy in households. A natural gas line is a pipeline that transports natural gas to homes and businesses. Natural gas is a fossil fuel that is made up of methane and other gases. It is used to heat buildings and water, cook, and dry clothes. About half of the homes in the United States use natural gas for space heating and water heating.

How to Determine if Your Gas Line is Leaking?

If you think you have a natural gas leak, it is important to leave the area immediately and call your gas company or 911. Do not turn any lights on or off, use the telephone, or do anything that could create a spark.

There are several ways to determine if there is a natural gas leak:

• You can smell natural gas. It smells like rotten eggs.
• You can see bubbles in standing water.
• Your plants are dying for no reason.
• There is constant hissing noise coming from the ground.

How Dangerous is a Gas Leak?

Natural gas is flammable and can explode if it accumulates in a confined space. A natural gas line leak can cause an explosion or a fire. Inhaling natural gas can be deadly. People who are exposed to natural gas may experience headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and loss of consciousness.

What to Do If You Have A Gas Leak?

If you have a natural gas line in your home, it is important to know how to repair it if it becomes damaged. Here are some tips for natural gas line repair:

Call your utility company

If you think there may be a problem with your natural gas line, the first thing you should do is call your utility company. They will be able to send someone out to take a look at the line and determine if there is indeed an issue.

Turn off the gas

If the utility company confirms that there is a problem with your natural gas line, they will likely tell you to turn off the gas. This can usually be done by turning a knob on your home’s main gas valve. Once the gas is turned off, do not turn it back on until the repair has been made.

Fix the leak

Once the gas is turned off, you can begin to fix the leak. This may involve patching a hole or replacing a damaged section of pipe. If you are not sure how to do this, it is best to hire a professional.

Turn the gas back on

Once the repair has been made, you can turn the gas back on. Be sure to follow all safety instructions from your utility company. They will likely send someone out to inspect the line before turning the gas back on.

Call a Professional

If you have tried repairing your gas line and still you see signs of a possible leak, it might be best to call a professional. Additionally, if you are not comfortable repairing the line yourself, it is best to call a professional. They will be able to fix the problem quickly and safely.

Be aware of your surroundings

When working with natural gas lines, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid accidents. Make sure all bystanders are clear of the work area and that no sparks or flames are present.

Following these tips can help you safely repair your natural gas line if it becomes damaged. If you are ever unsure about anything, be sure to call your utility company for help.

Related Reading: Gas Line Repair and Installation: DIY or Hire a Pro?

Shepherd’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. provides quality and honest solutions for your plumbing service and HVAC needs – big or small. We’re equipped to handle anything from natural gas line repair to installations to intensive repairs with a high level of quality and care.