The gas lines serving your Thornton home are vital for supplying the energy necessary for things like cooking, heating, or using your gas dryer. Over time, damage or wear and tear can occur, resulting in leaks or other problems. If you suspect an issue with your gas lines, it is imperative to call a professional right away.
Gas Leaks
Gas leaks might occur due to the pipes rusting or corroding. In some cases, accidental damage during excavation or construction can result in a leak. A leak could also develop due to poorly sealed connections or joints.
When gas is leaking, there is usually an odor. Gas companies add an odorant that produces a rotten egg smell since natural gas has no odor. Hissing sounds might be present when you are close to the problem gas line. If there are plants close to the gas leak, they may die due to the exposure. It is also possible to see bubbling when you are watering your plants or grass.
If you smell gas, immediately call emergency services and the gas company. You also need to leave your home until they tackle the problem. Trained professionals will be able to turn off the gas and find the leak so that they can stop it.
Gas Line Corrosion
If your gas lines are older, they are vulnerable to corrosion. This could happen faster for lines exposed to environmental elements, such as soil or moisture. Poor-quality gas line materials also make them more prone to corrosion.
If you can see the gas line, you will see signs of corrosion and rust when it gets bad enough. You might also notice a reduction in the gas pressure since the lines can narrow due to corrosion. If your gas appliances aren’t getting enough gas, they may malfunction or not work as efficiently.
Severe corrosion generally warrants installing a new gas line. There are newer options made from materials that resist corrosion.
Blocked Gas Lines
Debris, like rust and dirt, can build up in gas lines and cause a blockage. Rodent or insect infestations can also cause this problem by building nests inside the lines.
When there is a blockage, you might notice that the flames on gas appliances are flickering or irregular. In some cases, the gas appliances might shut off unexpectedly or fail to ignite. Hissing sounds can also come from a blocked gas line.
A professional cleaning can help to remove debris to resolve a blockage. To prevent this issue, you can install mesh screens on your gas line vents to stop rodents and insects from getting inside.
Wear and Tear
Gas lines deteriorate over time. This is especially true for those located outside. Traffic or construction activities may speed up deterioration. Temperature variations causing the lines to contract and expand can also contribute to this.
When there is wear and tear, you may notice that visible gas lines have dents, cracks, or sagging. There could be malfunctions with gas appliances or a gas odor due to a leak. If the wear and tear is significant, replacing the line is usually the best choice. This will reduce the risk of a repair failing and a leak occurring.
Incorrect Gas Pressure
This can occur due to the regulator malfunctioning. In some cases, there is an obstruction in the regulator affecting the pressure. Incorrect gas pressure could cause your gas appliances to have irregular or weak flames. They may not function at their full efficiency.
Professionals can come in and test the gas pressure so that they can make the proper adjustments. Adjusting gas pressure takes knowledge and skill, so never attempt it on your own since it could be dangerous.
Shutoff Valve Issues
Rust and corrosion can affect how your shutoff valves work. Issues can also occur due to incorrect installation of the shutoff valves. You may notice that it is hard to turn the valve. This is usually due to corrosion. If the valve is faulty or installed incorrectly, you might smell gas even when you fully close the valve.
Qualified professionals should promptly replace bad shutoff valves. It could be hazardous to continue to use a faulty or corroded shutoff valve.
Underground Gas Line Problems
Issues with underground gas lines can result from the soil settling, earthquakes, or other changes in the ground. Problems can also arise due to construction activities or heavy equipment sitting on the ground above the area where underground lines are present.
If you smell gas but do not see a line, it could be a leak coming from an underground line. You might also notice dying or dead vegetation in the area. Know where the gas lines are before using heavy equipment or making changes to the ground. Trained professionals should come and determine the location of gas lines and clearly mark them.
Incorrect Pipe Size
To ensure safety and proper function, gas lines need to be the right diameter. Installation issues where the installer does not check the size can cause this. This is also true when making changes to gas appliances without double-checking the right gas line size.
If the gas line is the incorrect size, inconsistent gas pressure can occur. This could result in inefficient operation of any connected gas appliances. Whenever you plan to upgrade appliances, have a professional do an assessment. They will ensure that they install properly sized gas lines.
Unprotected Gas Lines
Gas lines need adequate insulation to ensure protection from environmental elements. Issues with gas line integrity can also occur due to freezing temperatures and other extreme weather exposure. Unprotected gas lines are at a higher risk for corrosion and cracking. This could result in a gas leak, causing a rotten egg smell.
Have a professional inspect your lines to ensure that they have the proper insulation. They can replace the bad lines and add the right amount of insulation to protect them from weather conditions.
Maintaining Your Home Gas Lines
If you suspect a leak, evacuate your home and contact those who can safely take care of any issues. Schedule an annual inspection of your gas lines with a professional. They can perform the necessary maintenance and identify potential issues before they get too severe.
Be mindful of your landscaping. When you are adding new trees and plants, consider root growth and gas line proximity. It is possible for plant and tree roots to infiltrate your lines as they grow.
Professional Plumbers in Thornton
Gas line issues in your Thornton home can have dangerous consequences, so it is essential that you take care of them immediately. Our team has the knowledge and training necessary to help you navigate problems with the gas lines in your home. We can also assist with other home repairs and maintenance for your cooling, heating, and plumbing systems.
Contact Jim Needham Heating Cooling Plumbing and Drain in Thornton today to learn more about common gas line repair and gas line installation.
