It typically smells like rotten eggs, sulfur, or burnt garlic Learning how to recognize the warning signs of a gas leak and respond quickly could stop a little issue from turning into a major furnace repair emergency This distinct odor comes from a chemical called mercaptan, added to natural gas for safety reasons
How Much Do You Really Know About Gas? - Conservation Law Foundation
Recognizing this smell can be the first crucial step in preventing fires, explosions, or serious health hazards.
A rotten egg smell in your home can be a strong indication of a significant issue
This unpleasant odor is most frequently caused by natural gas leaks or sewer gas seeping into your living space Other potential sources include problems with your drain pipes, well water, gassy drywall, or malfunctioning water heaters Sometimes, even actual rotten eggs might be to blame Natural gas is actually odorless
Gas companies add a chemical called mercaptan that smells like rotten eggs to alert you to a possible leak Since natural gas is odorless and tasteless, a harmless substance called mercaptan is added to make the gas smell like sulfur or rotten eggs In addition to the smell, there are other signs of a natural gas leak We’ll identify those signs and tell you what to do if you spot them.
A gas leak occurs when natural gas, often methane, escapes from a pipe or gas line
Natural gas is a flammable substance that is commonly used in homes for heating, cooking, and hot water While the gas itself is odorless, gas companies add a distinctive rotten egg smell to it to make it easier to detect in case of a leak. Why does my house smell like rotten eggs but no gas leak The smell of rotten eggs isn’t just unpleasant
It can signal a dangerous gas leak that threatens your family’s safety
