How Does Gas Leak Detection Work?

Gas leaks are not just an inconvenience—they’re potentially life-threatening and demand immediate attention. We all know the dangers of gas leaks, and if you suspect one, it’s crucial to act quickly and turn to a trusted team that can resolve the issue safely and efficiently. But you might be wondering, “How does gas leak detection work?”

At Local Plumbing & Gas Co., we specialise in locating and repairing gas leaks using advanced detection methods. Our technology allows us to pinpoint leaks quickly and accurately without the need for invasive measures like tearing down walls. In this post, we’ll explain how gas leak detection works and how we handle the process safely. But before we dive into that, let’s take a look at the key signs that could indicate a gas leak in your home.

Signs You Have a Gas Leak

Unlike a water leak, you won’t see a gas leak. A gas leak is most easily identified by its distinctive smell, which is similar to rotten eggs. If you smell a rotten egg-like odour in the air, you likely have a gas leak and should act swiftly.

Other signs that you may have a gas leak are continuous bubbling in standing water, an ongoing roaring or hissing sound, plants dying, and unnatural dirt and air movement. If the leak is severe, you may experience physical reactions such as breathing difficulties, headaches, and nausea.

If you suspect you have a gas leak, to ensure your safety, please read our post ‘What To Do If You Have A Gas Leak’ and follow the steps provided.

How Gas Leak Detection Works

There are many types of gas detectors, including electrochemical, catalytic bead, photoionisation, infrared point, infrared imaging, semiconductor, ultrasonic and holographic gas detectors, and each type works differently.

However, the type of gas detectors most commonly used for residential gas leaks are combustible gas leak detectors, which utilise electrochemical, infrared point, ultrasonic, and semiconductor technology, and thermal imaging cameras, which utilise infrared imaging.

According to Resources Safety & Health Queensland’s Code of Practice for Leak Management, Detection, and Reporting, leak detection surveys should be conducted by trained personnel using calibrated gas detection instruments capable of detecting gas concentrations as low as 10 parts per million (PPM). Regular leak surveys ensure effective identification and management of gas leaks, maintaining safety standards and operational integrity

How We Do It

Local Plumbing & Gas Co. relies on combustible gas leak detectors and thermal imaging cameras to provide rapid gas leak detection to customers on the Gold Coast and beyond.

A combustible gas leak detector measures the concentration of flammable, combustible, toxic, and oxygen-depleting gases in the home. They can generally measure between 0 – 10,000 PPM (methane). If the reading exceeds a safe level, a signal will activate, confirming the presence of a gas leak. Combustible gas detectors feature precision sensors that can detect even the smallest leaks, which a licensed gas plumber, such as Local Plumbing & Gas Co can then repair.

A thermal imaging camera works by visualising gases that behave as selective radiators with low throughput and, reflectivity – and high emissivity. They are ideal for locating leaks within a wall cavity or another unreachable area.

Advantages of Leak Detectors

The obvious benefit of hiring a team that uses gas leak detectors is that they will find the leak. However, below this, there are many other benefits. For instance, combustible gas leak detectors or any gas leak detectors provide safe detection. They also provide fast and reliable detection. You can count on a gas detector’s findings to be 100% accurate. However, perhaps best of all is their accuracy in pinpointing the exact source of the leak. Finding gas in the air is one thing, but locating the source of the gas means that the repair can be quick, and the destruction of walls will be minimal.

Additionally, the Queensland Government classifies leaks based on their severity to ensure an effective response. Class 1 leaks, requiring immediate action, include any gas leak that is reported by the public, detected within enclosed structures, or leaks significant enough to pose imminent safety risks. Implementing accurate leak detection allows for prompt classification and action, greatly reducing potential risks and hazards

Conclusion

Gas leaks can be very dangerous, even deadly, which is why, if you suspect you have a gas leak, you need to find it to be repaired fast. Gas leak detection is the best solution for finding gas leaks. A simple device with the ability to measure the concentration of dangerous gases in the air could be lifesaving.

Detecting and repairing gas leaks not only protects health and property but also helps reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions. The Clean Energy Regulator supports leak detection as a key method for reducing methane emissions in Australia’s energy sector—methane being significantly more potent than carbon dioxide as a contributor to climate change.

If you suspect you have a gas leak, first turn off your gas supply, evacuate your premises and then give us a call. Our combustible gas leak detectors and thermal imaging cameras will be able to locate the source of the leak rapidly so we can repair it, returning your home to a safe environment once again.

Call 1800 562 251 or make an online booking today.