Natural Gas Leaks Inside Of The Home

Natural gas is a very efficient and economical energy source, but is dangerous when it leaks and the gas builds up inside a structure.  A random spark could cause an explosion, which could injure or kill people, as well as damage property.  Natural gas leaks can occur both outside of the structure and inside of the structure.  In most cases the gas company will fix the leak if it is on the street side of the gas meter, but the homeowner will be responsible for correcting the problem if it is on the house side of the meter.

In addition, due to the danger, if it is on the house side of the meter, the gas company will turn off the gas and lock the meter until an experienced plumbing contractor makes repairs.  In many jurisdictions the plumber is required to have specialized training in working with natural gas supply systems.

In most cases it is not difficult for the plumbing contractor’s technician to determine the location of the gas leak inside of the home due to available technology, which includes highly sensitive gas leak detection tools that allow the technician to pinpoint the exact location of the leak.  Once the leak is located, the necessary repairs will be made to the pipe, valve or coupling.

If it is necessary to open up areas in a wall or ceiling to gain access to the leak, every effort will be made to minimize the damage.   In many cases, the natural gas distribution system will be pressurized to verify that the repair is holding.  Once satisfied with the repair, the contractor will coordinate with the gas company to have the gas service restored and make sure that all gas appliances are operational.

Posted on behalf of Kiddco Plumbing