Smell Gas? Don’t Wait—Here’s What to Do If You Suspect a Gas Leak at Home

A sudden whiff of rotten eggs in your home might not seem alarming at first—but it should be. That distinct odor is added to natural gas to help detect leaks, and if you smell it, time is of the essence. Gas leaks are not only hazardous to your health but also pose a serious risk of fire, explosion, and structural damage.

At Hank & Sons Plumbing, we understand how critical a gas line issue can be. That’s why we provide fast, professional gas line repair and replacement throughout the Inland Empire and beyond. In this blog, we’ll break down what to do if you suspect a gas leak—and why calling an experienced plumber should be your first move.

What Causes Gas Leaks?

Gas leaks can occur for a variety of reasons, including:

• Aging or corroded gas lines
• Loose fittings or connectors
• Faulty appliances, such as water heaters or stoves
• Damage during construction or landscaping projects
• Natural disasters like earthquakes or soil shifting

No matter the cause, gas leaks should never be taken lightly. Even a small leak can have dangerous consequences if ignored.

Warning Signs of a Gas Leak

The most common warning sign is that sulfur-like “rotten egg” smell—but that’s not the only clue. Other symptoms may include:

• Hissing or whistling sounds near gas appliances or lines
• Dead or dying plants near a buried gas line
• Bubbles in standing water or mud near your home’s foundation
• A visible cloud or mist near a gas pipe
• Dizziness, nausea, or headaches when indoors

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to take action—immediately.

What to Do If You Suspect a Gas Leak

If you think there may be a gas leak in your home, follow these steps without delay:

1. Leave the area immediately: Get your family and pets out of the house. Don’t stop to gather belongings.
2. Avoid sparks or flames: Don’t flip light switches, use your phone, or start your car near the house—any spark could ignite the gas.
3. Turn off the gas if safe to do so: If you know where your gas shut-off valve is and can access it safely, turn it off.
4. Call emergency services: Contact your local gas company or 911 to report the suspected leak.
5. Call a professional plumber: Once it’s safe, contact Hank & Sons Plumbing at 909-524-2906 for expert assessment and repair of your gas line.

Why You Need a Licensed Professional

Repairing or replacing a gas line is not a DIY job. It requires advanced tools, a deep understanding of building codes, and a licensed plumber with experience in gas line systems. At Hank & Sons Plumbing, we provide:

• Accurate gas leak detection using specialized equipment
• Safe and code-compliant gas line repairs
• Gas line replacement when repairs aren’t sufficient
• Post-repair testing to ensure your home is fully safe

Our team works quickly and efficiently to restore your home’s safety—without cutting corners.

Prevention Is Key

While not all gas leaks can be predicted, you can reduce your risk with a little proactive care:

• Schedule annual inspections of your gas appliances and connections
• Replace outdated gas lines before they fail
• Have your gas lines checked after major renovations or natural events
• Know where your gas shut-off valve is located and how to use it

At Hank & Sons Plumbing, we’re happy to help with preventive maintenance and inspections, so you’re never caught off guard.

Protect Your Home and Family

A gas leak isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s an emergency. Trust Hank & Sons Plumbing to respond quickly, repair safely, and leave you with total peace of mind. Whether you suspect a small leak or need a full gas line replacement, we’re just a phone call away.

Call 909-524-2906 now to speak with one of our licensed professionals or schedule a fast-response visit. When it comes to gas safety, you can never be too careful.