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How to Detect and Fix a Gas Leak in Your Home Safely

By Stevos Plumbing – Experts in Gas Leak Detection & Repair 

Natural gas is a common and efficient energy source in many Australian homes. It’s used for cooking, heating, and hot water, offering convenience and cost-effectiveness. But with this convenience comes responsibility—gas leaks are a serious hazard and must be addressed immediately. Whether due to ageing pipes, faulty appliances, or poor installation, gas leaks pose a risk of fire, explosion, and health problems if not detected and fixed quickly. 

Stevos Plumbing, 24/7 Plumber in Penrith, we take gas safety seriously. In this blog, we’ll guide you through how to detect signs of a gas leak, what to do in an emergency, and how professionals can help fix a gas leak safely and efficiently. 

What Will You Find in This Blog? 

Here’s what you’ll learn in this article: 

1. Common Signs of a Gas Leak in the Home 
2. Immediate Safety Steps to Take if You Suspect a Leak 
3. How Professionals Handle Gas Leak Detection & Repair 
4. Prevention Tips to Keep Your Home Gas-Safe Year-Round 

Understanding these basics could protect your home, your health, and even your life. Let’s dive in.

Common Signs of a Gas Leak in the Home

Gas leaks aren’t always obvious. Sometimes, they can go unnoticed for days if you’re unfamiliar with the signs. Learning to recognize the early indicators is your first line of defence. 

Smell of Rotten Eggs or Sulfur 

Natural gas is odourless in its pure form, but suppliers add a chemical called mercaptan to give it a distinct rotten egg smell. If you notice this odour in your home, it could be a strong indicator of a leak—especially near gas appliances, heaters, or pipelines. 

Hissing Sounds Near Pipes or Appliances 

A soft hissing or whistling sound near a gas line, stove, or water heater could mean gas is escaping from a small crack or loose fitting. Don’t ignore these sounds, even if they seem faint. 

Dying Houseplants 

Gas leaks can displace oxygen, and plants are often the first to show signs. If your indoor plants suddenly begin to wilt or die with no clear reason, a gas leak could be the culprit. 

Physical Symptoms 

Prolonged exposure to leaking gas can cause health issues. Common symptoms include: 

• Headaches 
• Dizziness 
• Nausea 
• Breathing difficulty 
• Fatigue 

If several household members experience similar symptoms without a known cause, a gas leak could be to blame. 

Unusually High Gas Bills 

A spike in your gas bill with no change in usage may suggest gas is escaping somewhere in your system. This should be investigated by a licensed gas plumber.

Immediate Safety Steps to Take if You Suspect a Leak

If you suspect a gas leak, do not delay. Here’s what you should do to ensure safety until a professional can fix the gas leak. 

1. Turn Off the Gas at the Meter

Locate your gas meter and shut off the main valve. It’s usually a lever that runs perpendicular to the gas line. Turning it 90 degrees will stop the flow of gas into your home. 

2. Do Not Use Electrical Devices or Open Flames

Avoid using light switches, phones, or anything that could create a spark. Don’t smoke or light matches. Even a tiny spark can ignite a gas-filled room. 

3. Ventilate the Area

Open all doors and windows to disperse the gas. This helps reduce the risk of ignition and makes the space safer while you wait for help. 

4. Evacuate the Premises

Get everyone—including pets—out of the house immediately. Move to a safe distance and call for emergency plumbing services or your local gas provider. 

5. Call the Professionals

Once it’s safe to do so, contact a licensed plumber or gas fitter like Stevos Plumbing, who specializes in Gas Leak Detection & Repair. Never try to repair gas lines yourself.

How Professionals Handle Gas Leak Detection & Repair

At Stevos Plumbing, we follow strict procedures and use industry-standard equipment to safely locate and fix a gas leak. Here’s how the process typically unfolds. 

Step 1: Initial Inspection 

Our licensed gas fitters start by inspecting your gas system for obvious signs of wear or damage—checking joints, pipes, valves, and appliances. We also review recent work that might have impacted the gas lines. 

Step 2: Pressure Testing 

We conduct a pressure drop test using specialized tools to measure gas pressure in the system. A drop in pressure indicates a leak is present. This is a non-invasive and reliable way to locate the issue. 

Step 3: Leak Location 

Once we know there’s a leak, we use advanced tools like gas sniffers, thermal imaging, or soap solution tests to pinpoint the exact location. In some cases, we may need to access walls or floors to get to hidden pipes. 

Step 4: Repairs or Replacement 

Depending on the damage, we either: 

• Tighten or reseal fittings 
• Replace damaged sections of pipe 
• Repair faulty appliances or valves 

All work is done to Australian Standards and tested thoroughly after repair. 

Step 5: Final Testing and Compliance 

Once repairs are complete, we re-pressurise the system and conduct a final test to ensure the issue is fully resolved. We’ll also provide documentation for insurance or compliance purposes if needed.

Prevention Tips to Keep Your Home Gas-Safe Year-Round

While we’re always here to help in emergencies, prevention is your best tool for long-term safety. Here’s how to minimize the risk of gas leaks at home. 

Schedule Regular Inspections 

Have your gas lines, connections, and appliances professionally inspected at least once a year. Regular servicing detects issues before they become dangerous. 

Install a Gas Detector 

Gas detectors act like smoke alarms, warning you when gas is present in the air. Install one near gas appliances and bedrooms for added peace of mind. 

Be Careful with DIY Projects 

Drilling into walls or floors without checking for gas lines can lead to accidental punctures. Always consult with professionals before any home improvements. 

Upgrade Outdated Appliances or Pipes 

Old gas heaters, ovens, or rubber gas hoses can degrade over time. Upgrading to modern, compliant systems reduces risk and improves efficiency. 

Final Thoughts 

A gas leak in your home is not something to take lightly—but with the right knowledge and quick action, you can protect your family and your property. Learn to recognize the warning signs, follow emergency steps, and most importantly, trust licensed and professionals Plumber in Penrith for any repairs. 

At Stevos Plumbing, we specialize in Gas Leak Detection & Repair, using modern tools and proven methods to keep your home safe. If you suspect a leak—or just want peace of mind—don’t wait. Let us help you fix a gas leak quickly and safely. 

Need gas line repair or inspection? 

Contact Stevos Plumbing today. Your safety is our top priority.