Gas Leaks

Gas Leaks: What You Need to Know to Stay Safe

A gas leak is one of the most dangerous situations a homeowner can face. Natural gas is highly flammable and, if left unchecked, can lead to explosions, fires, and serious health risks. If you suspect a leak in your home in Garland, Frisco, Wylie, or any of our service areas, knowing how to respond quickly can save lives.

In this guide, we’ll cover how to detect a gas leak, what to do if you have one, and how to prevent future leaks.

How to Detect a Gas Leak

Natural gas is odorless, but utility companies add mercaptan, a sulfur-like chemical, to make leaks easier to detect. If you notice any of these warning signs, take immediate action:

✔ Rotten Egg Smell – The most obvious indicator of a gas leak is a strong sulfur or “rotten egg” odor.

✔ Hissing Sounds – A leaking pipe or connection may emit a hissing or whistling noise, especially near appliances.

✔ Dead or Dying Plants – If you have houseplants that suddenly die for no reason, a gas leak could be starving them of oxygen.

✔ Health Symptoms – Gas exposure can cause dizziness, nausea, fatigue, or headaches. If you feel these symptoms only while inside, get out immediately.

✔ Higher Gas Bills – An unexplained increase in your gas bill could indicate a small but continuous leak.

✔ Bubbling Water – If you see bubbles in standing water near gas lines (indoors or outdoors), it’s a sign that gas is escaping.

For more signs and symptoms, visit the U.S. Department of Energy’s guide to natural gas safety.

What to Do If You Smell Gas

If you suspect a gas leak, follow these steps immediately:

1️⃣ Evacuate the Area – Do not use phones, light switches, or any electrical devices inside. A single spark can ignite the gas. Get everyone out of the house.

2️⃣ Turn Off the Gas – If it’s safe, turn off your home’s main gas shutoff valve. This is typically located near your gas meter. If you’re unsure, check this gas shutoff guide from SoCal Gas.

3️⃣ Do Not Start Your Car – If the leak is inside a garage, don’t start your vehicle. The engine could ignite the gas.

4️⃣ Call for Help from a Safe Distance – Once you’re outside, call 911, your gas company, or a professional plumber to assess the situation.

5️⃣ Do Not Re-Enter Until Cleared – Only return to your home after a licensed professional has confirmed it is safe.

If you ever need emergency gas leak repair in Allen, Royse City, Caddo Mills, Sunnyvale, Highland Park, or Terrell, 1st American Plumbing is here to help.

Preventing Gas Leaks in Your Home

Taking proactive steps can protect your family from gas leaks before they happen. Here’s how:

✅ Schedule Regular Inspections – Have a licensed professional inspect your gas lines and appliances at least once a year. The National Fire Protection Association recommends annual checks for safety.

✅ Install a Gas Detector – Unlike smoke alarms, gas detectors alert you to leaks before they become dangerous. Check out the Consumer Reports guide to gas detectors for recommendations.

✅ Check Appliances for Wear and Tear – Old, loose, or damaged gas connections can leak over time. If your stove, water heater, or furnace is 10+ years old, consider an inspection.

✅ Use Flexible Gas Lines – Corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) is safer than rigid piping because it can withstand movement and minor earthquakes. Learn more about CSST from the American Gas Association.

✅ Know Where Your Shutoff Valve Is – In an emergency, shutting off gas immediately can prevent disaster. Make sure everyone in your household knows how to locate and operate it.

✅ Never Ignore Warning Signs – If you ever smell gas, hear hissing, or feel dizzy at home, act fast. Gas leaks can become deadly within minutes.

Gas Leak Detection and Repair

Gas leaks are serious emergencies that require immediate professional attention. At 1st American Plumbing, we provide:

✔ Emergency Gas Leak Repair – Fast response to leaks in Garland, Wylie, Plano, Frisco, Allen, and surrounding areas.
✔ Gas Line Inspections – Preventative checks to keep your home safe.
✔ New Gas Line Installation – Upgrade to safer, more efficient gas lines for peace of mind.

If you suspect a gas leak or want to schedule an inspection, contact us today! or Call us