Natural Gas

There are two main safety issues when it comes to natural gas appliances. The first involves high carbon monoxide levels because the gas isn't burning completely. The second is a gas leak. Both are problems that need fixing right away.

When it comes to carbon monoxide, what you can't smell can still be dangerous. Because it's invisible and odorless, the best defense is prevention. Have a qualified heating contractor check your appliances to be sure they are correctly vented and burning properly. To be on the safe side, buy at least one carbon monoxide detector for your home.

Natural gas is odorless too, but the gas company adds a chemical to give it that distinctive smell. If you smell the strong odor of natural gas, open some windows . DO NOT switch lights on or off or use the phone. Get out of the house quickly and use a neighbor's phone to call the gas company.

Serious problems with natural gas are rare, and an annual check up by a licensed heating contractor can head off problems before they occur.

Guests
Russell Allen
Inspector, A.A. Home Inspection Service, Inc.
Eldersburg, MD
Phone: 410-781-7177
E-mail: aahome@erols.com
Also in this Episode

House Detective : Episode HDT-201
•	Natural Gas
•	New Furnace