If you’ve noticed a strange sulfur-like smell, unexplained headaches, or dead spots in your yard, you might be dealing with a gas leak. These warning signs should never be ignored—gas leaks can pose serious health and safety risks if not addressed quickly.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common signs of a gas leak—both indoors and outdoors—and explain the exact steps to take if you suspect there’s a problem in your home.
What Does a Gas Leak Smell Like?
If you have a gas leak, the most common indicator is the smell of rotten eggs. Natural gas is actually odorless, but utility companies add a chemical called mercaptan so it’s easier to detect. If you ever notice that distinct sulfur-like smell in your home—especially around appliances like your furnace or water heater—it’s a sign something may be wrong.
Don’t ignore this smell, even if it’s faint or comes and goes. A small gas leak might not be consistent, but it still needs to be addressed.
Indoor Warning Signs You Have a Gas Leak
When a gas leak occurs inside your home, the symptoms can vary depending on the size and location of the leak. Here’s what to look out for:
1. Persistent Smell of Gas Indoors
If you’re near your furnace or water heater and occasionally catch a whiff of gas, it might be a minor leak. But if the smell is consistent, it’s time to take action.
2. Physical Symptoms
A larger gas leak can affect your health. Be aware of the following symptoms:
- Dizziness
- Nausea or feeling sick to your stomach
- Headaches
- Flu-like symptoms that don’t go away
These signs are caused by the lack of oxygen and buildup of gas in the air. If multiple people in the house experience these symptoms, evacuate immediately.
3. Appliances That Smell Like Gas
Sometimes, the leak might be isolated to one appliance. If you smell gas when standing near your furnace or water heater, that appliance could be the source of the problem.
Outdoor Signs of a Gas Leak
Gas leaks don’t just happen inside. If you have underground gas lines running through your yard, keep an eye out for these outdoor warning signs:
1. Dead or Discolored Patches of Grass
If there’s a gas leak underground, the vegetation around it may die off, leaving a patch of dead grass that stands out from the rest of your lawn.
2. Bubbling Water in the Yard
See a puddle in your yard with bubbles rising from it? That could be gas escaping through the soil and entering the water. This is a serious sign and should be reported right away.
What to Do If You Suspect a Gas Leak
When it comes to gas leaks, safety should be your first priority. Here’s what we recommend:
Step 1: Smell Test
Use your nose. Walk around areas where gas lines or appliances are located and sniff for that rotten egg odor.
Step 2: Don’t Use Electricity
If you smell gas, don’t flip any switches or use electronics. A single spark can cause an explosion.
Step 3: Leave the Area
If the smell is strong or you’re feeling symptoms, evacuate the house immediately.
Step 4: Contact the Gas Company or a Professional
- Call your gas company first. They have equipment to detect and confirm if there’s a gas leak.
- If the leak is confirmed, they may shut off your furnace or water heater.
- In some cases, they might shut off your gas meter completely. If this happens, you’ll need a licensed plumber to perform a pressure test before the gas can be turned back on.
Step 5: Hire a Trusted Plumber
Once the gas company identifies the issue, it’s time to bring in a professional like Dick Ray to locate and repair the source of the leak. Whether it’s a faulty connection, pipe, or appliance, we’ve got the tools and experience to get it fixed safely.
Propane vs. Natural Gas Leaks
If your home runs on propane instead of natural gas, extra caution is needed:
- Propane is heavier than air and sinks to the floor. This means it can pool in low areas and become even more dangerous.
- Natural gas rises and will often escape through chimneys or vents.
- With propane, you should be especially cautious about ventilation and avoid any ignition sources if you suspect a leak.
In Summary
Knowing the signs you have a gas leak can make all the difference. Whether it’s a faint smell near your furnace or dead grass in your yard, early detection is key to avoiding health risks and property damage.
If you suspect a problem, don’t wait. Call your gas company first, then contact us at Dick Ray for expert repair services you can trust. We’ll make sure your home is safe, your system is secure, and you can breathe easy again.
