Should You Call a Plumber to Fix a Gas Leak?

Most people associate plumbers with fixing water pipes, drains, sewer lines, and water-using appliances. A licensed plumber is also qualified to perform gas leak repair. Contact a plumbing contractor right away if you suspect a gas leak. Natural gas is flammable and a health hazard. You should call a plumber to fix a gas leak because they’re qualified to:

• Use special tools and equipment to detect gas leaks.
• Repair the damaged section of a gas pipe.
• Make adjustments that resolve or reduce the risk of leaks.
• Run gas lines from one place to another.
• Connect gas lines to appliances or fireplaces.

A Plumber Can Fix Gas Lines?

Calling a plumber might not be your first thought when you smell gas. Not every plumber can do the job. Don’t expect an apprentice or general contractor to be ready to handle the task. Check the plumber’s qualifications; they must have a California C-36 Plumbing Contractor license to work with gas lines. This means they are properly trained to fix a gas leak in your home. Working with a trained plumber will yield the following benefits:

• Safety: A licensed plumbing contractor has the tools and equipment to safely work near and fix a damaged gas line. They can quickly turn off the gas to eliminate the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Experience: Experience handling emergencies means the plumber can work calmly and methodically, and help keep everyone else calm until the problem is fixed. They’re also able to locate the source of the leak right away.
• Technical Expertise: While water and gas lines use some of the same materials, a certified plumber can determine the pipes and materials needed. They’re also trained to correctly install gas line components, whether fixing a leak, retrofitting existing systems, or replacing old, weak, or corroded pipes.
• Installation Knowledge: Almost every property has gas appliances, but not everyone knows how to install them. A qualified technician can install a gas water heater, kitchen range, or fireplace while making sure any gas lines installed, moved, or modified are done so correctly.
• Knowledge of Rules and Codes: A licensed technician will be familiar with state and local building codes, so won’t commit any violations. Even if your jurisdiction doesn’t require it, you should still hire a technician who is properly trained in working safely around natural gas.

Signs You Need a Plumber to Fix a Gas Leak

A gas leak can come from a hole or break in the line, a damaged fitting, or a connection at an appliance. A defective appliance can leak natural gas as well. Signs of a leak include:

• Foul sulfur or rotten-egg odors.
• Hissing noises from an appliance, connection, or pipe.
• Dying house plants.
• Symptoms like nausea, dizziness, headache, fatigue, or confusion.
• An increase in gas usage/higher utility bill.

What to Do When There’s a Gas Leak

If you smell sulfur or rotten eggs, immediately turn off the gas meter. Don’t use any appliances, electronics, or devices in your home, or use matches or a lighter. Gas accumulated anywhere in your home can ignite and cause an explosion. Get everyone out of the house, including adults, children, and pets; then turn off the gas at the meter, if you can, and call an emergency plumber (or 911 and the gas company if the odor is particularly strong). Never risk trying to find and fix the problem yourself.

Any gas system issue from the meter into a home is the homeowner’s responsibility to fix. If the problem appears to be along the line before it reaches the meter, the gas company must repair it.

Contact NEXGEN

Our technicians are trained and certified to work on gas lines, connections, and appliances. We also specialize in gas leak detection, using advanced equipment to verify a gas leak, where it is, and how much is leaking. Our team is prepared and equipped to quickly fix any leak and restore your safety. From minor adjustments to gas line replacement to 24/7 emergency service, NEXGEN has you covered.

Book an appointment online to request a plumber to fix your gas leak immediately.