Ways to detect natural gas leaks at home 23^rd February 2021

Natural gas is commonly used at homes for cooking and heating purposes. It is a fantastic fuel and is highly convenient for domestic purposes. However, since the gas is combustible, a leakage in large amounts can cause suffocation and death.

As natural gas is colourless and odour-free, it is always difficult to find any gas leak signs in your home. Also, remember that it might not have physical indications or smells. So, how can you identify natural gas leaks? Let's look at everything you need to know.

Detectors for Natural Gas leaks.

1. Propane & Natural Gas Detector:
The goal of these sensors is to notify about grills or stoves being switched on. Many homes use sensors to detect whether the youngsters in the family are tampering with the grill or stove. These sensors come in both connected and wireless forms. If you have a hardwired sensor, you can use a wireless transmitter to connect to it.

2. Carbon Monoxide Detector:
When these detectors sense a particular level of carbon monoxide in the air, they go off and sound an alert. It has a combination of different sensors that help it function, such as

• A biomimetic sensor changes colour as it absorbs carbon monoxide, and this colour shift activates the alert.

• The silica chip's circuitry system detects carbon monoxide, which reduces the electrical resistance and causes the alarm to sound.

• If the electrodes in a chemical solution present in the detector come into touch with carbon monoxide, they detect variations in electrical currents, triggering the alarm.

Traditional ways to detect a gas leak.

1. The smell of a rotten egg or sulfur:
Natural gas and propane have unique odours for a particular reason. Gas processing companies employ mercaptan as a safety additive because it gives the colourless and odourless gas a distinct odour. Most people associate this odour with rotting eggs or sulfur. So if you smell anything of such nature, investigate for a gas leak.

2. Dead vegetation:
Although you can't see the gas pipelines beneath the soil, a visible patch of dead vegetation can signify a leaky gas pipeline underneath.

3. Hissing sound:
You may hear a mild hissing sound coming from your gas line if there is a leak. This is a solid sign to get the line diagnosed immediately.

4. The bubble test:
Combine a teaspoon of detergent with a cup of water. Apply this solution to the area you believe is leaking and watch for bubbles to form. This signifies that gas is leaking from that location.

The possibility of a gas leak can be frightening, but understanding how to recognise danger and what precautions to take can help you relax. When it comes to gas leak detection, using the methods outlined above can assist you in determining whether your family and house are in danger.

One more step in maximising safety is to get insurance for you, the loved ones and your valuable assets. Browse through different plans of general insurance companies in India and analyse your requirements. Buy the plan that meets all your needs and safeguard your home against these risks.

Click HERE to explore insurance plans from one of the best general insurance companies in India.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.