Do you need professional gas line repair or gas line installation in Santa Cruz, Marin, Santa Clara, and Sonoma? Call Bellows Plumbing, Heating & Air today for all your Bay Area indoor plumbing needs by dialing 831-244-6718!
Gas line issues have the potential to be extremely dangerous, so don’t waste time if you notice a problem. Be sure to take advantage of our exclusive online coupons and deals to save on your next service.
If you have a gas furnace and other appliances, your home relies on gas to deliver that fuel to keep them working. Needless to say, when propane or natural gas is part of the equation, the danger level escalates, especially if there is a break in the line.
Millions of homes use gas every day without incident, but when it comes to repair, you should always err on the side of caution and only use a qualified professional.
Gas Line Basics
The gas line that supplies your home transports either propane or natural gas to your gas stove, furnace, water heater and other appliances to make them function. The gas is always in the line, waiting for you to open the valve and put it to use.
If there is a break or rupture in the main line, that’s when it becomes a serious situation. If you think you need gas line repair or gas line installation in Santa Cruz, Marin, Santa Clara, and Sonoma, call us today.
Determining If It’s a Gas Leak
If you end up with a leaking gas line, you may notice a hissing noise where the gas is escaping from the line, or you might notice the smell of rotten eggs. Either one of these is a telltale sign that the line has been damaged.
Sometimes, the section of gas line under the ground is damaged, in which case you may notice dead or decaying vegetation on the ground above the leak. A gas line leak can happen because the line is old and worn because intense weather damaged the line or due to poor quality installation. Regardless of the reason, it’s important to call for help as soon as you notice a problem.
Common Gas Line Issues
Gas lines, like any home system, are subject to wear and tear over time. Some of the most common gas line problems homeowners experience include leaks, corrosion, sediment buildup, and more. Being able to recognize issues with your gas lines is important for detecting leaks and preventing more severe damage.
Gas Leaks
Gas leaks are one of the most dangerous issues that can occur. Signs of a minor gas leak include:
- a faint rotten egg smell coming from the gas appliance or lines
- hissing sounds
- frequent pilot light shutoffs
- visible pipe damage
Larger gas leaks may produce a stronger sulfur smell, a whistling or roaring noise, dirt or dead vegetation in the area, visible vapor clouds, or bubbles emerging in standing water. If you detect a gas leak, leave the area immediately and contact emergency services.
Unresolved gas leaks can cause deadly explosions, fires, carbon monoxide poisoning, and more hazardous exposure.
Corrosion
Pipe corrosion is another common source of gas leaks. Most underground gas lines use coated steel or iron pipes. Over time, the coating wears away, allowing the pipes to rust or corrode from soil chemistry changes, moisture, and pipe damage.
Check metal pipes periodically for flaky rust spots, pitting, cracks, or soft areas which can quickly turn into leaks. Above ground gas appliances and vents may also corrode. Replacement of excessively corroded pipes is usually required.
Sediment Buildup
Sediment, water, condensation, and other particles passing through gas lines can gradually accumulate in low spots of pipes or gas equipment over the years. This debris and sludge can obstruct gas flow which can diminish appliance performance. In some cases, significant blockages may result which can be difficult to fully clear out.
Scheduling an occasional gas line cleaning can help reduce this debris accumulation over time.
Following up promptly on any signs of gas line troubles allows problems to be repaired before they escalate into safety risks or require full line replacement. Contact our team of experts whenever issues emerge.
Take Quick Action
Fast action is what is needed if you suspect a gas line leak in your home or business. The first thing to do is get everyone outside, and then call 911 and report the situation. Next, you should call your gas line expert to have proper gas line repair or gas line installation in Santa Cruz, Marin, Santa Clara, and Sonoma
Safety is always paramount when it comes to gas line issues, so call Bellows Plumbing, Heating & Air as soon as you think you have a problem.
Our phone number is 831-244-6718.
We will send out a licensed technician right away to assess the situation and offer the safest solution for everyone.