When installed correctly, gas appliances are perfectly safe in the home. However, if your appliances are old, have been poorly fitted or have not been serviced correctly then it increases the chances of a gas leak occurring. Gas leaks can be very dangerous, causing health problems and accidents in the home. Additionally, the release of gas into the air is bad for the environment and surrounding wildlife.

While we will work with you to ensure that your home is kept gas safe, it’s important to know what the signs and symptoms of a gas leak are, and what to do if there’s an emergency.

Smell

The first thing you’d notice in the event of a gas leak would be a foul smell in the air which is similar to rotten eggs. This is a very distinctive smell, so if you smell this in your home you should call 0800 111 999 immediately for help and advice.

Hissing sound

Another symptom of a gas leak is a hissing or whistling sound in the home or near your gas lines. Generally, the louder the noise, the more substantial the leak is, so it’s always best to call a professional straight away if you’re worried.

White cloud near the gas line

A white cloud or unusual-looking mist around your house could be another sign of a gas leak or damaged gas pipe. If you notice this, then call your gas company straight away and they will be able to help.

Bubbles in water

If you have a gas leak, you’ll most likely find bubbles forming in wet areas around your home or in puddles outside.

A good way to check whether you have a gas leak is to perform the ‘bubbles test’ with soapy water. Simply mix some dish soap with water, and spray or put the solution in the area you think is leaking. If you start to see bubbles showing up, then it’s an indication that you might have a gas leak.

Dead houseplants

Unfortunately, the presence of gas can prevent plants from being able to breathe properly and can result in them dying. If you have house plants around your home and you still notice them wilting, then this could be a sign of a gas leak. Additionally, check the areas outside your property for patches of yellow grass or dying flowers, as this might be a sign of a leak coming from pipes underground.

Physical symptoms

Carbon monoxide is a gas that is released in the event of a gas leak or if you have faulty gas appliances. It can make you seriously ill if you breathe it in, however, it has no colour or smell, making it hard to spot. Knowing the six signs of carbon monoxide poisoning can help you determine whether you’re feeling ill because of a potential leak. The six symptoms are:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Breathlessness
• Collapsing
• Loss of consciousness

If you’re feeling unwell, and think that you’ve been exposed to carbon monoxide, please contact your GP or go to your nearest hospital to be checked over.

What to do if you think you have a gas leak

If you believe you have a gas leak, or you can smell gas in your home, then the most important thing to do is keep yourself and your children safe. Firstly, you should leave the house immediately, before contacting the National Gas Emergencies number on 0800 111 999. The number is free, and available 24 hours a day. Do not smoke, light a match, turn any electrical switches on or use a mobile phone from inside the house. This is because all these activities could produce a spark, and put you at risk of causing a fire or explosion.

We hope that we’ve helped you to spot some of the common signs of a gas leak in your home and that you now know what to do if you think you have one. Please remember that if you have any questions or concerns that you can contact us on 0300 123 55 22 or email  hello@forhousing.co.uk for support.

For more hints and tips about saving energy this winter and eco-friendly living, you can follow us @ForHousing on social media.