How To Tell If Your Furnace is Leaking Gas? And What To Do?
As a homeowner, one of the most critical safety concerns you might encounter is a furnace gas leak. This guide will delve into the causes of a furnace gas leak, its warning signs, associated health risks, and the recommended actions to take when you suspect a leak.
Natural gas furnaces are found in many homes across North America. They’re efficient, affordable, and relatively easy to maintain. However, gas leaks can occur, posing potential risks such as illness and home fires.
Why Does Furnace Gas Leak Happen?
Gas leaks can occur in the gas supply line to your furnace, but they are more commonly caused by a cracked heat exchanger. Overheating is the number one cause of a cracked heat exchanger. Overheating can occur when there isn’t enough airflow through the furnace to dissipate heat safely. Causes of restricted airflow include a dirty furnace filter, duct blockages, ductwork that is too small, or a furnace and air handler that is too large for your home1.
8 Signs of a Furnace Leaking Gas
If the Furnace is Leaking Gas, it can be difficult for you to figure out how the gas leak might have started. In this section, you will come across several pointers that will let you know how a gas leak in a furnace takes place and what you need to do.
Symptom 1: Hissing Noises
The natural gas gets pressurized in the lines that are linked to the homes. The gas also gets pressurized inside the furnace’s heat exchanger. When there is a gas leak, the pressure of the gas leak will cause a hissing noise.
The best way to spot this sound is to occasionally listen for gas leaks when you’re not using the furnace. It’s because the blower motor’s sound can, at times, down them out. When you start to hear hissing sounds but cannot find out where it’s coming from, conduct a soap test.
To conduct this test, you must shut down the furnace, soak it in soapy water with a cloth, and run it on the gas lines of the furnace and the heat exchanger. If the gas is leaking out, you will find bubbles appearing in the soapy water.
Symptom 2: Smell of Sulphur
Natural and clean gas is always odour-free, but by law, gas suppliers must add an ingredient known as “mercaptan” to identify gas leaks via scent. Mercaptan smells like rotting eggs or sulphur.
If you sense a sulphur-like odour in your home and are unable to locate where it comes from, you must first inspect the heating system. You can also detect this sulphur-like smell at the vent registers of the house. If there is a big gas leak, you will be able to smell mercaptan around the home’s furnace.
Symptom 3: Dying Indoor Plants
Having indoor plants at home will not just make the space look eye-catching but also play as an indicator for gas leaks. When the furnace is leaking gas, it will seep right into the soil of your potted house plants.
This can prevent the plant roots from absorbing nutrients and water from the soil. Your indoor plants will begin to wither, and they will die. You must call a heating contractor immediately when you’re confident that the houseplants are getting enough sun and water but are still dying.
Symptom 4: Encountering Flu-Like Signs
Natural gas is dangerous to human health, and short exposure to it will show various symptoms. If you spend too much time at home when there is a gas leak, you might fall sick. Getting exposed to natural gas will cause symptoms that are similar to the flue, such as:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Exhaustion and Fatigue
- Nausea
You must contact an HVAC professional immediately to resolve this problem so that such symptoms occur again and you can keep your health in great condition.
Symptom 5: High Usage of Gas
When the house utilizes a high amount of natural gas, it means that there is a gas leak. A seasonal increase in gas use is pretty normal when utilizing the gas furnace, but when there is an abnormal increase in gas usage, it means there is a leak around or in your residence.
Symptom 6: Check the Pilot Flame
The furnace has a pilot light, which normally burns blue. If the flames change to yellow or orange, it’s a sign that the heating system is producing “carbon monoxide gas,” which is extremely harmful. You must contact the HVAC contractor if this type of problem occurs. They have the tools, knowledge, and equipment to fix this problem quickly and effectively.
Symptom 7: Air Bubbles Outside the House
You can tell when the Furnace is Leaking Gas when the underground pipes located outside the residence start leaking. When you have air bubbles on mud and puddles, it shows that the natural gas is leaking out from the soil and into the air outside. You can settle this problem by hiring a heating professional who will fix the underground pipes to stop the leaks.
Symptom 8: Pets Falling Ill
When there’s a gas leak within the residence, pets start showing signs linked with the heater gas leak. If your pet has abruptly gotten unwell and you have no idea why, it could be because of gas leaking from the home’s heater.
Health Risks Associated with Gas Leaking From Furnace
Gas leaks from furnaces can release harmful substances like carbon monoxide (CO) into the air, posing risks to health. CO is a colorless, odorless gas that can cause various symptoms:
- Short-term Symptoms: Headaches, dizziness, nausea, sinus irritation, and difficulty breathing are common short-term effects of CO exposure. Other symptoms may include fatigue, memory and concentration problems, chest and stomach pain, vision issues, and loss of motor control.
- Long-term Effects: Continuous exposure to gas leaks can lead to more severe health problems such as fatigue, memory issues, chest pain, vision problems, and loss of motor control. In extreme cases, it can cause reddening of the skin and lips, unconsciousness, and even death.
- Effects on Pets: Gas leaks can also affect pets, causing disorientation, lethargy, vomiting, difficulty breathing, and red, watering eyes.
Things You Should Do When You Find Your Furnace Is Leaking Gas
By now, you’re probably well aware of the signs when a Furnace is Leaking Gas. But it’s also important to know what to do when a gas leak takes place.
Check the Appliances and Devices That Utilizes Natural Gas
It would help if you periodically inspected all the appliances and devices that utilize gas to function. That way, you can detect and prevent gas leaks. Check the instructions of the manufacturers for all the appliances to learn what and where to check and use them safely. Some of the common appliances that run on gas apart from the heating system are:
- Electric Generators
- Water Heaters
- Electric Clothes Dryers
- Stoves
The majority of these devices come with a pilot light, which you should also check. Appliances with pilot rays will create a blue flame with a golden tip. Contact the manufacturer if you assume that something’s not right with the device or if it doesn’t have a pilot light.
Learn How to Turn off the Heating System
All residential properties that utilize furnaces, which run on natural gas, have a “shut-off valve,” which is located outside the home. During the gas leak, you must know where exactly this valve is situated and how to use it.
Once you shut down the gas supply, it can prevent more gas from leaking out and also prevent you from getting exposed to natural gas.
Keep Children Away from the Home’s Furnace
When the heating systems start to leak out gas, you must first keep children away from them. Teach them how to detect and spot gas smell and help them recognize the signs of furnace gas exposure. This will let them know what they should do if there is a sudden gas leak inside the residence.
Evacuate the House Immediately
During the gas leak, don’t think twice. Just take your loved ones and your pets and leave the residence quickly. Also, before leaving, keep all the windows and doors of the house open to allow the gas to exit.
Place the Carbon Monoxide Detector
A reliable and excellent way you can identify a furnace gas leak is by placing the “carbon monoxide detector” at home. You will find them available online or in physical stores.
Some locations conduct community programs where the fire department examines, replaces and places carbon monoxide or smoke detectors. If you bought a new HVAC system or shifted to a new residence, contact the nearby fire department and find out if the community is providing such programs.
Contact the Gas Company
It’s extremely crucial to contact the gas company when you notice a gas leak at your residence right before you re-enter. Both the gas company and the fire department will conduct an inspection and then shut down the gas line to prevent any further problems.
Try to Dodge the Ignition
When the heating system is leaking out gas, you should “NOT” think of lighting candles or matches. Ignitions can easily ignite the gas and will lead to a massive explosion. Circulate the home by opening the windows and doors to disseminate the furnace gas and diminish its concentration completely.
Preventive Measures and Maintenance Of Furnace Gas Leak
Taking preventive measures and regular maintenance can minimize the risk of gas leaks from your furnace. Here are a few steps you can take:
- Schedule Annual Furnace Inspections: Arrange for annual inspections of your furnace by a qualified HVAC technician. They will check for any signs of wear, cracks, or damage that could potentially lead to a gas leak.
- Replace Damaged or Aging Components: If your furnace or any of its components show signs of damage or aging, it is crucial to have them repaired or replaced promptly. This includes the heat exchanger, which is a common source of gas leaks.
- Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Carbon monoxide detectors are essential safety devices that can alert you to the presence of this odorless gas. Install them in key areas of your home, particularly near bedrooms and on each level of your house.
- Ensure Proper Ventilation: Proper ventilation is essential for the safe operation of your furnace. Ensure that vents and air intakes are not blocked by any obstructions, allowing for the free flow of air.
Professional Assistance and Expertise
When it comes to gas leaks, it is always best to seek professional assistance. HVAC technicians have the knowledge, skills, and specialized equipment to detect and repair gas leaks safely. They can also provide guidance on preventive measures and maintenance to ensure the ongoing safety of your furnace.
If you suspect a gas leak or require any furnace-related services, don’t hesitate to contact a reputable HVAC company. Their trained professionals can assess your situation, provide timely solutions, and offer expert advice tailored to your specific needs.
If you are looking for a furnace repair service in Toronto, Call us.
Conclusion
Being aware of the signs of a furnace gas leak is crucial for the safety and well-being of you and your family. By recognizing the warning signs, taking immediate action in case of a gas leak, and implementing preventive measures, you can minimize the risk of gas leaks and ensure the safe operation of your furnace. Remember, if you suspect a gas leak, prioritize your safety and contact a qualified HVAC professional for assistance. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and protect your home from the potential dangers of a gas leak.
