Important: If you believe you have a gas leak in your home or business, it's important to leave and call the emergency number for your utility company (or 911) as soon as possible. A gas leak can be extremely dangerous and can cause serious health issues if not immediately addressed.
First of all, it's important to note that gas leak detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are not the same. Most carbon monoxide detectors will not detect natural gas leaks and will only detect carbon monoxide (unless otherwise stated by the manufacturer).
The best and most efficient way to determine whether or not you have a gas leak in your home or business is to:
- Have a gas leak detector professionally installed
- Have that gas leak detector professionally monitored 24/7
By installing a gas leak detector system and investing in monitoring, authorities will automatically be dispatched if a gas leak is detected - saving you time, money, and worry.
Rest assured that your home or business is covered if there's a gas leak with a professionally-installed detector and monitoring system. Call 800.552.1111 for a free installation estimate today.
Installing a gas detection and monitoring system
The use of a gas monitoring system can help prevent an explosion in your home or building and/or prevent worker injury and exposure to toxic gases.
When integrated with the rest of your building/home's systems, a gas monitoring system can ensure action is automatically taken to prevent gas levels from rising in the event of a gas leak. For example, an integrated/monitored system could automatically shut off gas valves, turn on a ventilation fan or signal alarms to alert and evacuate personnel.
By installing a gas detection and monitoring system, you'll have real-time access to information to improve situational awareness and speed up incident response.
Signs there may be a gas leak in your home or business
If your gas leak detector isn't working or if don't have one installed yet, here are the signs of a gas leak that you should look for:
- Sulfur/rotten egg smell: Natural gas companies often put an additive in the natural gas to give it a distinct odor. This strong odor should make it easier to detect a gas leak.
- Whistling or hissing noise: Depending on where the gas leak is, you may be able to hear a whistling or hissing noise coming from the leak.
- Obvious signs of damage with gas line or connection: If you can see a break in a gas line or any kind of damage to your home or business' gas lines or connections, there's a pretty good chance there's a gas leak.
Keep in mind- You may also experience physical symptoms if there's a gas leak.
The symptoms caused by a gas leak can be difficult to notice because they're similar to other common health issues like the stomach flu, a headache, a sore throat, or simply being tired.
These symptoms include:
- Dizziness
- Eye and throat irritation
- Lethargy
- Headaches
- Nausea/vomiting
- And more
It's important to note that natural gas itself is not what causes the above symptoms, it's the lack of oxygen that causes your body to react.
When there's a natural gas leak, the gas takes the place of oxygen, and as the amount of gas starts to rise, your body breathes will receive less and less oxygen which can cause the symptoms listed above.
Note: We are not medical or public safety officials. If you think you have a gas leak, you need to consult medical and public safety experts. More information can be found here.
Have your bases covered with a state of the art gas detection and monitoring system. With Ackerman installation and monitoring services, you'll get the protection and security you and your family deserve.