Gas Leak Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore
- Luke Williams
- Jun 11
- 2 min read
Gas appliances are a convenient and efficient part of many Australian homes, but when something goes wrong, a gas leak can pose a serious risk to your property and the people inside it. Knowing the warning signs of a gas leak can help you act quickly and potentially prevent a dangerous situation.
At Onboard Plumbing & Gas, we believe that safety always comes first.
Here are some of the key gas leak warning signs you should never ignore.
1. A Strong Smell of Gas
Natural gas is odourless, but suppliers add a distinctive sulphur-like smell, often described as rotten eggs, to make leaks easier to detect.
If you notice this smell inside or around your property, do not ignore it. Even a faint gas smell could indicate a leak that requires immediate attention.
2. Hissing or Whistling Sounds
A damaged gas pipe or fitting can sometimes produce a hissing or whistling noise as gas escapes under pressure.
If you hear unusual sounds near gas appliances, meters or gas lines, it's important to investigate safely and contact a licensed gas fitter as soon as possible.
3. Higher Than Normal Gas Bills
Have your gas bills suddenly increased despite no significant change in usage?
A hidden gas leak can cause gas consumption to rise without you realising it. If your bills seem unusually high, it may be worth having your gas system inspected.
4. Pilot Lights Frequently Going Out
Gas appliances with pilot lights should operate consistently. If pilot lights repeatedly extinguish or appliances are not functioning correctly, there may be an issue with the gas supply or a leak within the system.
5. Dead or Dying Plants
Outdoor gas leaks can sometimes affect nearby vegetation. If plants or patches of lawn suddenly begin to die without an obvious reason, a leaking underground gas line could be a contributing factor.
6. Physical Symptoms
Exposure to gas leaks can cause a range of symptoms, including:
Headaches
Dizziness
Nausea
Fatigue
Difficulty breathing
If multiple people in the household experience similar symptoms that improve when they leave the property, a gas leak may be the cause.
What To Do If You Suspect a Gas Leak
If you suspect a gas leak:
Turn off the gas supply if it is safe to do so.
Avoid using electrical switches, appliances or open flames.
Open doors and windows to improve ventilation.
Leave the area immediately if the smell is strong.
Contact a licensed gas fitter or your gas supplier for emergency assistance.
Never attempt to locate or repair a gas leak yourself.
Gas leaks should always be treated as an urgent safety issue. At Onboard Plumbing & Gas, we provide professional gas leak detection, gas fitting and repair services throughout Adelaide's southern suburbs.
Our experienced team can quickly identify the source of the problem, carry out the necessary repairs and ensure your gas system is operating safely and efficiently.
If you're concerned about a potential gas leak, don't wait.
Contact Onboard Plumbing & Gas today for expert advice and prompt service.
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