Why to Never DIY Gas Line Repair
In addition to carbon monoxide poisoning and explosions, another risk involved in DIY gas line repairs is suffocation.
Gas is often called a silent killer, and that's a fitting name considering the invisible life-threatening danger it poses. While DIY gas line repair may sound like an easier, cheaper alternative, it's not worth the risk.
Here are some key reasons to steer clear of DIY gas line repairs:
Fire hazard
Few substances are more flammable than natural gas. The slightest spark can lead to devastating explosions that can be lethal or cause extensive property damage. The blast's aftermath can also ignite fires that can quickly spread, endangering those in surrounding areas.
Furthermore, a spark is not the only way a gas explosion can occur. If the DIY gas line repairs occur in an enclosed space, natural heat can lead to a dangerous accident.
Carbon monoxide
Even a minor mishap can have deadly consequences when conducting DIY gas line repairs. A nasty byproduct of natural gas is carbon monoxide. If the required repairs are in an area that's not well-ventilated, carbon monoxide poisoning is a real threat.
The danger of carbon monoxide is that it's almost impossible to detect. Therefore, there's no way to tell if carbon monoxide poisoning is happening until it's too late.
Suffocation
In addition to carbon monoxide poisoning and explosions, another risk involved in DIY gas line repairs is suffocation. The hard-to-detect natural gas can unknowingly fill the space and deplete oxygen levels. Of course, a room devoid of oxygen and full of gas can result in suffocation.
Health consequences
If the DIY works are not completed correctly and unknown gas leaks remain in the line, extended inhalation can be the source of a litany of health concerns. Possible symptoms range from nausea and headaches in mild cases to long-term respiratory and neurological damage in extreme cases.
Environmental impact
Unless a property owner is also a trained expert, any DIY gas line repairs can lead to costly mistakes, such as improperly sealed gas lines that lead to leaks.
An improperly sealed gas line will release harmful methane and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, worsening the effects of global warming.
Consult the experts
Any DIY repairs that involve working with gas are strictly regulated, and while it's not illegal in all U.S. jurisdictions, it's strongly not recommended. The best course of action when dealing with a substance that's this dangerous is to bring in a professional.
A licensed plumber will have the knowledge, tools, and expertise to safely repair any gas line without risking a property's residents.
If you need honest and experienced professional plumbing services for residential and afford commercial plumbing needs in Las Vegas, Henderson, and Enterprise give us a call at 702-766-3320.
