During the cold winters in Waukesha, WI, the temperature often drops into the single digits, and many of us rely on gas furnaces to stay comfortable. We also use gas to heat up our water year-round. While necessary, natural gas can be hazardous, and leaks can put your health and safety at risk while spending time indoors. Unfortunately, leaks are difficult to detect due to the nature of gas. If you want to protect yourself and avoid potential disasters, there are a few tips for preventing gas line leaks.
1. Maintain the HVAC System
Work with a professional technician to maintain your HVAC system throughout the year. Regular maintenance includes an inspection of critical components that prevent gas leaks. The technician will examine connections to confirm they’re tight, look for rust on the wiring, and check to see if enough fuel is able to reach the burners.
2. Replace the Gas Fittings
When the piping system has scaled fittings and a build-up of corrosion, the gas line fittings may need to be replaced by a professional from a company like Jeff’s Custom Care Plumbing. A plumber will start by shutting the gas off before they replace the fittings. They’ll then perform a test after the fittings are in place to ensure everything is sealed correctly.
3. Install a New Gas Shutoff Valve
In some cases, it may be necessary to add a new gas shutoff valve on your furnace; these can malfunction if they become corroded. The valve should also be replaced any time you install a new furnace.
4. Rely on Professionals
Whenever you upgrade or install new appliances in your home, avoid doing the work yourself to avoid mistakes that can lead to gas leaks. Rely on the professionals to install your appliances to ensure the correct tools and techniques are used.
5. Learn the Signs of a Gas Leak
It’s important to be aware of the signs of a gas leak to ensure you can immediately detect it if it ever occurs. You may start to develop a headache, nausea, and dizziness. Many of the symptoms are similar to the flu and can start to escalate the more time you spend indoors. Stay safe by exiting your home and getting fresh air before reaching out to a professional to determine if a gas leak is present.
Contact us today to learn more about what you can do to prevent gas leaks from developing on your property. Our team is here to answer your questions and help you stay safe while spending time in your home.