Do You Smell Gas? What to Do Before You Panic
If you’ve ever walked into your kitchen or garage and noticed that sharp “rotten egg” smell, your first instinct might be to panic.
Take a breath.
It’s important to act quickly, but staying calm and knowing what to do next can make all the difference.
As your Friendly Neighborhood Plumber serving Knoxville, TN and surrounding areas, we handle gas line inspections and repairs every day. Here’s exactly what to do, step by step, if you think you smell gas.
Step 1: Don’t Ignore It
That smell is not your imagination.
Utility companies add a chemical called mercaptan to natural gas so leaks are easy to detect. If you smell sulfur or rotten eggs, or hear a faint hissing sound near a gas appliance, take it seriously.
Even a small gas leak can become dangerous quickly.
Step 2: Do Not Turn Anything On or Off
Avoid:
Flipping light switches
Lighting candles or matches
Starting your car
Using your phone inside the house
Even a small spark can ignite gas in the air. This is why it’s critical to leave the area before making any calls.
Step 3: Get Everyone Outside
If it’s safe to do so, open doors on your way out.
Then move everyone outside, including pets, and create distance from the home. Aim for at least 300 feet away if possible.
Once you’re safely outside, call 911 or your gas company immediately to report a suspected gas leak.
Step 4: Call a Licensed Gas Line Plumber
After emergency crews confirm the area is safe, the next step is a professional inspection and repair.
Our team at Friendly Neighborhood Plumber is licensed and trained in gas line detection, repair, and replacement throughout:
We use professional pressure testing and diagnostic tools to locate the issue accurately and safely.
Whether it’s a cracked fitting, corrosion, or a faulty appliance connection, we’ll make sure your system is restored and running safely.
Step 5: Schedule a Gas Line Safety Check
Even if everything seems fine now, routine gas line inspections are a smart preventative step—especially before colder months when usage increases.
Our gas line safety checks include:
Inspecting for corrosion or wear
Testing for leaks and pressure loss
Checking shut-off valves and regulators
Verifying proper venting for gas appliances
A simple inspection today can prevent a much bigger problem later.
Gas Leak Questions Knoxville Homeowners Ask
What does a gas leak smell like?
Natural gas is odorless, but utility companies add a chemical called mercaptan to give it a strong smell—often described as rotten eggs or sulfur. If you notice that smell in your home, take it seriously and act immediately.
Is a small gas smell dangerous?
Yes. Even a small gas leak can become dangerous if it builds up in an enclosed space. It only takes a small spark to ignite gas in the air, which is why it’s important to leave the area and call for help right away.
What should I do if I smell gas in my house?
If you smell gas:
Do not turn on lights or use electronics
Leave the home immediately
Get everyone to a safe distance
Call 911 or your gas company
Once cleared, contact a licensed plumber to inspect and repair the issue
Who should I call for a gas leak in Knoxville, TN?
First, call 911 or your local gas provider to handle the immediate safety concern. After the area is declared safe, you can call a licensed gas line plumber in Knoxville, TN—like Friendly Neighborhood Plumber—to locate and repair the leak.
How often should gas lines be inspected?
Gas lines should be inspected at least once a year, especially before colder months when usage increases. Regular inspections help catch small issues before they turn into dangerous or costly problems.
Can a plumber fix a gas leak?
Yes. A licensed plumber trained in gas line work can safely detect, repair, and replace gas lines. It’s important to work with a professional who has the proper tools and certifications to handle gas systems.
Stay Safe, Knoxville
Smelling gas in your home is serious, but you don’t have to handle it alone.
We’re here to help keep your home and family safe with honest, reliable service.
If you ever suspect a gas leak or need a gas line inspection, give us a call or text at 865-443-7617 or visit 865FNP.com.
Stay calm. Act quickly. And when it’s safe to do so, call a team you trust.
