Signs You Need Gas Line Inspections: How to Spot Potential Problems

Gas inspections are one of those things we tend to overlook until something goes wrong. But the truth is, regular checks can save you a lot of stress and money down the road. Gas appliances and systems are crucial to keeping your home running smoothly, but when they’re not working right, they can pose serious safety risks. So, how do you know when it’s time to call in a professional for a gas inspection? Here are the signs you should watch out for.

1. Strong Gas Odors

The first and most obvious sign you need a gas inspection is when you smell gas. If you notice a strong, unpleasant odour, usually described as rotten eggs, it’s time to act fast. Natural gas lines are odourless, but companies add a sulfur-like scent to make leaks detectable. If you catch this smell, it could indicate a leak somewhere in your gas pipes.

What should you do if you smell gas? Don’t panic. First, open windows and doors to air out the house, and avoid any sparks or flames – no light switches, candles, or anything that could ignite the gas. Turn off your gas supply if you can, then get in touch with a licensed gas technician to inspect the system. Gas leaks are a major safety concern, so don’t wait around to get it checked out.

2. Higher Gas Bills

Noticed your gas bill creeping up for no obvious reason? You’re not using more gas, but the charges keep rising. This could point to a leak or gas appliances that aren’t running efficiently. If your system isn’t burning gas properly, it can result in wasted energy and higher costs.

Before you stress, take a look at your recent usage and compare it to previous bills. If you haven’t changed anything, it might be time to book a gas pipeline inspection.

3. Pilot Lights Going Out Frequently

If your stove, furnace, or water heater has a pilot light that flickers or keeps going out, it’s more than just a minor inconvenience. This could be an indicator that there is an issue with the gas flow or a faulty thermocouple, which is something you’ll want to address sooner rather than later.

The thermocouple is a safety feature that controls the gas supply to your appliance. If it’s damaged or malfunctioning, it could be preventing your appliance from getting enough gas, causing the pilot light to go out. A gas inspection can help identify whether the issue is with the gas infrastructure or something else with the appliance. 

4. Poor Appliance Performance

Is your stove not heating evenly, or is your furnace having trouble keeping the house warm? These issues could be a sign that something’s off with your gas system, and it might be time for a closer look. Poor performance in gas appliances can often point to a blockage or issue with the gas line.

If you notice uneven heating, a lack of hot water, or if the appliance seems to be running inefficiently, it’s a good idea to schedule a gas inspection. A technician can check your appliances for problems with gas flow and make sure everything’s functioning correctly. This can not only improve the performance of those appliances but also ensure the safety of them.

5. Visible Damage to Gas Lines or Appliances

Gas lines and appliances wear out over time, but visible damage should never be ignored. If you spot cracks, rust, or any other visible signs of damage on your gas appliances or pipes, it could mean the system is compromised and leaking gas.

The last thing you want is to deal with a potential gas leak due to a crack in a gas line or a malfunctioning appliance. If you notice any damage, get a professional in to inspect and repair it as soon as possible. They’ll have the tools to safely identify the problem and fix it before it becomes a safety hazard.

6. Flickering or Yellow Flame on Gas Appliances

Most gas appliances should have a blue flame, which indicates that the gas is burning properly and efficiently. A flickering or yellow flame could indicate incomplete combustion, which can lead to gas leaks, carbon monoxide buildup, and other serious problems.

If you notice that the flame on your gas appliances is yellow instead of blue, it’s time to have them inspected. The issue could be as simple as a blocked burner or a more significant problem with your gas supply. Either way, you’ll want to get it checked out to avoid any potential hazards.

7. Increased Humidity or Soot Around Appliances

Excess moisture or soot buildup around your gas appliances can also signal a problem. Both of these issues are caused by incomplete combustion, where the appliance isn’t burning gas completely. This can happen if there’s an issue with the appliance itself or the venting system.

If you notice soot accumulating around your stove, furnace, or water heater, or if you see condensation on windows or walls near gas appliances, it’s a sign that your system may not be operating properly. This could also mean you’re wasting energy. A gas inspection can identify the cause and make sure everything is functioning as it should.

8. Unexplained Health Symptoms (Headaches, Dizziness)

One of the scariest signs that something’s wrong with your gas system is unexplained health symptoms. Gas appliances, if not functioning properly, can leak carbon monoxide, a colourless, odourless gas that can be deadly. Symptoms like headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue are often early signs of carbon monoxide poisoning.

If you or anyone in your household starts feeling unwell when using gas appliances, open the windows, turn off the appliances, and get fresh air immediately. After that, contact a professional to inspect your gas system. Don’t ignore these symptoms – carbon monoxide poisoning is a serious risk that can be prevented with timely inspections.

Stay Safe with a Gas Line Inspection

Gas inspections are essential for maintaining the safety and efficiency of your home. If you’ve noticed any of the signs listed above, it’s time to get your gas system checked out. From gas leaks to appliance performance issues, a gas inspection can catch problems before they turn into costly repairs or safety hazards.

A quick inspection can give you peace of mind, knowing that your home is safe and your appliances are working efficiently. Don’t wait for gas-related issues to become a safety concern—contact us at Kelowna Plumbing today for expert gas leak and carbon monoxide testing to ensure your home remains safe and secure.