Bruce was featured as a home inspector providing information and knowledge on water heaters. Unfortunately, there have been several home explosions across the US that are most likely linked to issues with gas in the home. Even in our own backyard of Lisle, IL. Most recently in Plum Pennsylvania, an explosion took place that resulted in the loss of life. This explosion is thought that a leaking water heater might be the cause.
Here are some real steps you can take to protect your home from potential gas leaks and issues with your water heater and other gas-based appliances and mechanicals.
SMELL - Do you smell Bad Eggs or a Sulfur smell? Gas companies purposely add a scent to natural gas to help people detect it in their homes. If you smell gas you need to immediately exit your home/property and call your local gas provider for emergency assistance.
HEAR - Do you hear hissing or whistling? Hearing these types of noises around gas appliances and gas lines can mean you have a small hole that is venting something into the air. It is best to follow up with a plumber or specialists who will be able to better help determine what type of leak you may have. Hissing noises can also happen around A/C and other systems.
LOOK - Regularly inspect your gas appliances to make sure that the pilot light is lit and on. If the pilot light is out you will need to relight it to prevent gas buildup. If you do not know how to do this bring in a professional for assistance. Not all appliances have viable pilot lights, consult your owner and user manuals for exact specifics on your appliance.
ADD - Be sure to install and add to your home a gas detector. Many in-home options are available and come in a wide variety of services and prices. Some CO2 detectors monitor for gas (You should have a CO2 detector no matter what), you can get a stand-alone gas detector for your utility room, or your smart home system might have options for you too.
For those who might consider themselves more handy and good with tools, you can add an inexpensive battery-operated gas leak detector that you use for your regular maintenance schedule.
Keeping up with your annual maintenance is key. Consider having a plumber come out to do an annual gas system check in your home. It is also recommended that you have an HVAC specialist come out twice a year to do a checkup on your system as a part of your maintenance. The best time for this is when you switch from using your AC to your Heat.
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