Natural gas is a relatively safe, efficient, and inexpensive fuel that provides over half of all American households with heat and the ability to cook food, dry clothes, and warm water. However, if your natural gas or propane supply is incorrectly installed or maintained, it could be dangerous to your health and property.

Fortunately, there are several ways to check for gas leaks before they cause serious problems. This guide will teach you how to detect gas leaks from stoves, so that you can keep your property and loved ones safe.

What are Gas Leaks and Why are They Dangerous?

A gas leak is an unintentional release of natural gas or another gaseous substance from a pipeline or other containment into any location where the gas should not be detected. Gas leaks are dangerous to both human health and the environment. Even a minor leak into a building or other confined space may slowly build up an explosive or deadly concentration of gas, even if it appears minor.

Gas leaks are dangerous because gas is highly flammable. The vapors from natural gas can easily ignite and create an explosive fire. In addition, gas leaks can also cause health problems. The gas is poisonous and can cause dizziness, nausea, and even death. Detecting gas leaks before they become a problem is important for your safety and the safety of your property. There are several ways to do this, but one of the most common methods is to look for gas leaks around your stove.

How to Detect Gas Leaks from Stoves

Propane and natural gas are colorless and odorless gasses. To help detect and prevent gas leaks, a sulfur-like or rotten egg fragrance is added. When you detect gas, it's because of an additive or aroma known as odorants.

The chemical odorant used in both natural gas and propane is mercaptan or thiophane, depending on the brand of gas you're using. As a result, both gasses have the same scent. So, when you think you're smelling propane or natural gas, you're really smelling the odorant.

What To Look For

There are several ways to detect gas leaks before they become a problem. One of the most common methods is to look for gas leaks around your stove. Some common signs of a gas leak around the stove are as follows:

  • The gas flames on your stove are yellow, not blue.
  • You can smell gas near your stove, even if it's turned off.
  • If you touch the oven door, it's hot to the touch.
  • You can hear a hissing noise near your stove.

Other Signs Of A Gas Leak

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can be one of the first indicators of a gas leak or hazardous levels of gas in the home. As the amount of gas rises, oxygen quantities inside the space fall. Be aware of any of the following:

  • Chest pains or breathing difficulties
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness are two common symptoms
  • Headaches
  • Eye or throat irritation
  • Vomiting or loss of appetite are both common.

Hand-held Gas Detectors

To use a handheld gas detector, simply turn it on in a neutral location. Then move towards the location where you believe the leak is originating. As you approach closer to the source, the device will begin to tick, beep, or flash; and it becomes more intense with proximity. Here are some excellent detectors from General Tools:

Intrinsically Safe Combustible Gas Detector

The Combustible Gas Detector #CGD900 can detect more combustible gasses (including hydrocarbons) than competitive units.

Combustible Gas Leak Detector Pen

The Combustible Gas Leak Detector Pen #PNG1 is ideal for detecting leaks of natural gas, propane, or butane from plumbing and appliances. Every home and apartment should have one.

Combustible Gas Leak Detector

The Combustible Gas Leak Detector #NGD8800 is ideal for checking automotive exhaust and fuel systems, liquid and gas-fired heating systems, propane tanks, and other natural gas and propane powered equipment.

Are You Using a New Stove/Oven?

If you've just moved into a new home or purchased a new gas stove, there's a good chance you'll notice the smell of gas the first few times you turn it on. When your new gas stove is installed, a licensed plumber or gas-safe engineer will need to connect the gas line to it.

It's best not to attempt this task yourself to avoid future leaks. Some possible sources of leaks:

  • Plastic or paper wrapping could be left in the stove.
  • There may be chemicals left on the surface from the factory that are burning off.
  • The stove may have a faulty igniter.

What to Do if You Detect a Gas Leak

Do not try to fix the leak yourself - it could be dangerous. Gas leaks can have explosive potential due to their high flammability. If you detect foul-smelling gasses inside your house or business, immediately vacate the area and call your gas company from a safe distance.

Precautions to Help Prevent Gas Leaks in Your Home

  • Have your stove checked by a gas specialist once a year.
  • Consider replacing old gas pipes and connection valves.
  • Regularly check for leaks yourself using a hand-held device.

General Tool Carries High Quality Hand-Held Detection Devices

If you're looking for a high-quality hand-held gas detector, General Tools has you covered. Our detectors are designed to detect leaks of natural gas, propane, and butane from plumbing and appliances. They're perfect for homeowners and apartment dwellers alike.
Our mission is to enable our users to work smarter, measure better, and be more productive. Contact us today for more information or to find a location near you.