There are many aspects in Havertown, PA, that fail to go unnoticed, such as its many protected historical sites, including Lawrence Cabin built in the 1700s, and Nitre Hall, built during the Industrial era just a century later. Like our history, we shouldn’t fail to prioritize our safety, which is why if you smell gas, you should call someone, but who? Can a plumber fix a gas leak or do you need a gas technician?

Whether you need an expert plumber in Havertown or want answers to your burning questions, our attentive husband and wife team can help. We’ll start by answering the one above.

What Is the Difference Between a Gas Technician and a Plumber?

However, can plumbers repair gas leaks? 

When Do Plumbers Become Necessary?

A plumber deals with water-related systems, such as the water supply line providing fresh household water from a clean city source and the sewage main line that collects gray water from appliances and sends it to a wastewater treatment facility. Havertown plumbers also repair appliances, like:

Owning a own home or a commercial estate means you’ve called a plumber on multiple occasions, whether to snake a backed-up toilet, unclog a shower drain, or fix a leaky pipe. Even if you don’t call for annual professional plumbing maintenance (which you probably should to keep your system intact), you likely see your plumber more often than a gas technician, so you’ll want the former to handle it all.

  • Toilets
  • Sinks 
  • Showers
  • Washing machines
  • Dishwashers
  • Sump pumps
  • And more! 

Do Gas Technicians Have a Different Role?

Gas technicians, however, become certified in more dangerous gas pipe fittings, repairs, maintenance, and replacements. They choose the proper material, such as copper natural gas piping, as opposed to the galvanized steel or PVC plumbers use, and thread the lines in the opposite direction of water lines to bar unsafe line crossings. They also install and care for appliances plumbers don’t receive training in, such as: 

  • Household heaters like furnaces, boilers, and gas fireplaces
  • Kitchen equipment like burners, stoves, and ovens
  • Traditional and tankless water heaters alongside pool heaters and hot tubs
  • And other household equipment, from dryers to barbeque grills 

Can a Plumber Still Remedy a Gas Leak in Havertown?

When wondering, “Can a plumber fix a gas leak in Havertown?” you must understand dealing with gas is more dangerous, requires different materials, and comprises separate issues and parts. For instance, while plumbers snake video cameras into pipes or listening discs to see or hear pipe leaks, gas fitters use electrochemical gas detectors that observe gas concentration to uncover invisible leaks.

Therefore, don’t assume traditional plumbers can treat one type of pipe like the other. However, a plumber’s role in fixing gas leaks is not non-existent since all it takes is the right classes to get Pennsylvania plumbers up to speed. They must also pass a Gas Work Qualification exam and undergo a certain amount of hours of in-field training before they become certified and receive a Havertown gas license. 

So, before calling plumbing services for gas leak detection and repair in Havertown, ensure your specialist has the right qualifications first. 

how does a plumber find a gas leak?

Gas leaks pose a significant safety hazard in any property, potentially leading to fires, explosions, or carbon monoxide poisoning if left unchecked. Detecting and repairing gas leaks promptly is paramount to ensure the safety of both residents and the property itself. Plumbers play a crucial role in this process, employing various techniques and tools to locate and address gas leaks effectively. In this guide, we’ll explore the methods that plumbers use to detect gas leaks, providing valuable insights into ensuring the safety and well-being of your home or business.

  • Visual Inspection: The plumber starts by visually inspecting the gas lines, connectors, and appliances for any signs of damage, corrosion, or wear. They carefully examine areas such as pipe joints, valves, and fittings.
  • Listening for Hissing Sounds: Gas leaks often produce a hissing or whistling sound. The plumber uses specialized equipment, such as a listening device or a stethoscope, to listen for these telltale noises along the gas lines and connections.
  • Using a Gas Detector: Plumbers use handheld gas detectors or electronic gas leak detectors to identify the presence of gas in the air. These devices can detect even small traces of gas, helping pinpoint the location of the leak.
  • Soap Bubble Test: In cases where a leak is suspected but not easily detected, the plumber may perform a soap bubble test. They apply a solution of soapy water to the suspected areas, such as pipe joints and connections. If there’s a leak, bubbles will form where the gas is escaping.

When Is the Right Time to Call a Gas Fitter or Certified Gas Plumber for a Gas Leak in Havertown?

Now that you know you can receive a gas leak repair by a plumber certified in gas work or a traditional gas fitter, when do you call for assistance? 

Gas leaks are dangerous. At the very least, a minor leak that is barely detectable can leave residents feeling nauseous or dizzy and cause headaches. In more severe cases, not only can inhaling the toxic odor for extended periods lead to unconsciousness and death, but the fumes can also contribute to fatal explosions. 

So, if you notice any of the following symptoms, evacuate your home immediately and call professional plumbers for gas leak remediation:

  • A rotten egg odor
  • Hissing as the gas escapes the pipes
  • Indoor or outdoor plants dying simultaneously
  • Gas bills rising 

We’re More Than Just Experts; We’re the MVPs!

You may have plenty of questions when it comes to the safety of your home and loved ones, but the more time you waste figuring these things out yourself, the longer you’re at risk. 

So, whether you’re wondering, “Can a plumber fix a gas leak?” or “What are the gas line repair services offered by plumbers?” contact MVP Plumbing. We are licensed and insured plumbing and gas specialists in Havertown, PA. Call (484) 435-7585 to learn about the surrounding areas we serve and to receive a free water test today!