What Does Gas Smell Like? How to Detect, Prevent, and Respond to Gas Leaks Safely

Imagine coming home after a long day, only to notice an unusual rotten egg smell lingering in the air. You check around but can’t find the source. Could it be a gas leak? Acting quickly in such situations can mean the difference between a minor issue and a life-threatening emergency.

Gas leaks are silent yet dangerous threats, potentially leading to fires, explosions, and carbon monoxide poisoning. Recognizing the early signs of a leak and knowing who to call can help prevent accidents and keep your household or business safe.

This guide will walk you through how to detect gas leaks, emergency steps to take, who to contact in different situations, and preventative measures to keep your home safe from gas-related hazards.

Recognizing the Signs of a Gas Leak

Gas leaks can be silent and deadly, often going unnoticed until they pose serious risks. However, by paying close attention to certain sensory indicators, you can detect a potential leak early and take immediate action.

Here’s what to watch for:

Olfactory (Smell) Clues

• Rotten egg or sulfuric odor – Natural gas itself is odorless, but utility companies add a chemical called mercaptan to give it a strong, unpleasant smell similar to rotten eggs. This helps people detect leaks quickly.
• What if I can’t smell gas?
  • If you have a blocked nose or a weakened sense of smell, you might not detect a leak.
  • In some cases, gas can leak underground or in poorly ventilated areas, making it harder to notice the scent.
  • Carbon monoxide (CO) is an exception – This toxic gas is odorless and colorless, so it requires a CO detector to identify its presence.

Auditory Clues

• Hissing or whistling sounds – If you hear an unusual hissing sound near a gas pipe, gas meter, or gas-powered appliance, it could be the sound of gas escaping under pressure.
• This sound may be faint and can be masked by background noise, so try listening in a quiet room near gas lines.

Visual Clues

• Dead or discolored vegetation – If plants near a buried gas line suddenly turn yellow, brown, or die, it could indicate a gas leak affecting the soil’s oxygen levels.
• Dirt blowing into the air – An underground gas leak can create a visible disturbance in the soil, causing dust or dirt to blow up from the ground.
• Bubbles forming in standing water – If you see bubbling in puddles or wet ground near a gas pipeline, this may suggest gas is escaping underground and making its way to the surface.
• Flame color changes in gas appliances:
  • Blue flame = Normal (indicates proper combustion).
  • Yellow/orange flame = Incomplete combustion (this can signal a gas supply issue or improper ventilation).

Pro Tip: If you notice more than one of these signs at the same time, assume the worst and act immediately—gas leaks can escalate quickly.

Immediate Actions Upon Suspecting a Gas Leak

A gas leak requires immediate action to protect yourself and those around you. Follow these critical steps to minimize risk and ensure safety:

1. Turn Off the Gas Supply

• Locate your gas shutoff valve, which is usually found near the gas meter or outside your home.
• Turn the valve clockwise (to the right) to completely stop the gas flow.
• If you are unable to shut off the gas or feel unsafe, leave the premises immediately and call for professional assistance.

2. Ventilate the Area

• Open all windows and doors to allow fresh air to disperse the gas.
• Do not use electric fans, air conditioning, or ventilation systems, as they might create sparks that could ignite the gas.

3. Avoid Electrical Devices & Flames

⚠ DO NOT do the following:
• Switch lights or appliances on/off – Electrical sparks can trigger an explosion.
• Use mobile phones inside the building – Even a small electronic signal can ignite a gas-filled space.
• Use lighters, candles, matches, or smoke – Open flames can cause an instant fire.

Pro Tip: If you need to make a phone call, do it only after evacuating to a safe distance outside your home.

4. Evacuate Immediately

• Get everyone out of the premises – including children, pets, and vulnerable individuals.
• Do not return inside until a gas professional or emergency responder confirms it is safe.
• Do not attempt DIY repairs! Gas leaks require the expertise of licensed professionals.

5. Call Emergency Services or a Licensed Gas Fitter

Who you should call depends on the severity of the gas leak:

Life-Threatening Emergency (Fire, Explosion, Strong Gas Odor Indoors)
Dial 000 (Emergency Services) – If you see flames, hear a loud hissing sound, or the smell is overwhelming, call emergency responders immediately.
Evacuate and stay far from the building until authorities confirm it is safe to return.

Suspected Gas Leak (No Immediate Danger but Needs Investigation)
Call your local gas distributor – If you suspect a slow or underground leak, contact your regional gas provider’s emergency number (a list of contacts will be provided in the next section).

Minor Gas Issues (Small Odors Near Gas Appliances or Fittings)
Call a licensed gas fitter – If the smell is coming from a gas stove, water heater, or indoor connection, a qualified technician should inspect and repair it.

Important: NEVER ignore a suspected gas leak—even a minor leak can escalate into a life-threatening situation. Always err on the side of caution!

Who to Call for a Gas Leak? Emergency Contact Guide

Life-Threatening Emergency (Fire, Explosion, Strong Gas Odor Indoors)

Dial 000 (Emergency Services) – If life or property is at risk.
Evacuate & wait far away from the home.

Suspected Gas Leak (No Immediate Danger but Needs Investigation)

Call Your Local Gas Distributor (State-wise contacts listed below).
List of Major Gas Distributors in Australia:

• Melbourne Gas Plumbers – 0400 000 0000

Pro Tip: Save these numbers in your phone contacts now!

Minor Gas Issues (Appliance Leaks, Small Odors Near Gas Fittings)

Call a Licensed Gas Fitter for inspections & repairs. Example: Melbourne Gas Plumber – Gas Leak Detection

How to Prevent Gas Leaks: Essential Safety Tips

Regular Maintenance:

✔ Annual inspections by a licensed gas fitter. ✔ Ensure proper installation of new gas appliances. ✔ Check gas pipes for corrosion, cracks, or leaks.

Safety Practices:

Install carbon monoxide detectors near gas appliances. Educate all household members on safety steps. Never store flammable objects near gas appliances.

Proper Ventilation Matters:

Keep gas appliances in well-ventilated areas. Avoid blocking air vents.
Pro Tip: Perform the soapy water test—apply a mixture of soap and water to gas fittings. If bubbles form, there’s a leak!

Health Implications of Gas Exposure

Short-Term Effects:

Headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion. Fatigue & difficulty breathing.

Long-Term Exposure Risks:

Risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Potential for neurological damage. If multiple people experience symptoms at the same time, evacuate and seek medical help.

Legal Responsibilities and Compliance

Gas safety is a shared responsibility between homeowners, tenants, gas distributors, and licensed professionals. Understanding each party’s role ensures compliance with regulations and helps prevent dangerous incidents. 

Here’s a breakdown of who is responsible for what:

Homeowners & Landlords – Regular Maintenance Is a Must

• Property owners must ensure that all gas appliances, fittings, and pipelines within the property are properly maintained and serviced.
• Gas appliances should be inspected and serviced at least once a year by a licensed gas fitter to prevent leaks and ensure efficiency.
• In rental properties, landlords must provide tenants with safe, compliant gas appliances and arrange for necessary repairs if a gas issue arises.
• Failure to maintain gas appliances can result in fines, legal liability, and serious safety risks for occupants.

Tenants – Immediate Reporting of Any Gas Issues

• Tenants must report any gas-related concerns (e.g., gas smells, faulty appliances, or pilot lights that won’t stay lit) to their landlord or property manager immediately.
• If an issue arises and the landlord fails to act, tenants can contact the local gas distributor or a licensed gas fitter for further guidance.
• Tenants should never attempt DIY gas repairs—only a professional can legally and safely fix gas-related issues.

Gas Distributors – Responsible for the Gas Supply Up to the Meter

• Gas distributors own and maintain the gas infrastructure up to the meter on a property. This includes gas mains, pipelines, and meters.
• If a gas leak occurs outside the property boundary (on the street, footpath, or near the meter), the gas distributor is responsible for investigating and fixing the issue.
• Each Australian state has designated gas distribution companies that handle gas supply emergencies (e.g., Australian Gas Networks, Jemena, ATCO Gas).
• If you suspect a gas leak outside your home, contact your local gas distributor’s emergency hotline instead of a private technician.

Regulatory Standard: Compliance with Australian Gas Safety Laws

All gas installations and servicing must comply with AS/NZS 5601.1:2022, the Australian gas installation standard. This regulation sets the legal safety requirements for:
✔ Correct installation and maintenance of gas appliances.
✔ Proper ventilation of gas-powered equipment.
✔ Safe connection of gas fittings and pipes.
✔ Mandatory gas leak testing after installations or repairs.

Pro Tip: Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord, or tenant, always use a licensed gas fitter for installations and servicing. Keeping up with gas safety regulations protects lives, prevents property damage, and ensures compliance with Australian law.

Additional Resources and Support

Helpful External Links: Gas safety authorities (Energy Safe Victoria, Australian Gas Networks, etc.). Contact details for licensed gas fitters & emergency services. Local Programs for Free Gas Safety Checks (if applicable).

FAQs: Common Questions About Gas Leaks

Q: Can I fix a gas leak on my own?
Do not: No way! Gas leaks are serious, and only a licensed gas fitter should handle them.

Q: What does carbon monoxide smell like?
Do not – It doesn’t have a smell or color—that’s why a CO detector is a must for safety.❓ Should I turn off the gas if I notice a leak?
Do – Absolutely! Shut off the main gas supply, get everyone outside, and call for help right away.

Final Thoughts: Stay Safe & Know Who to Call for a Gas Leak

Gas leaks are serious but preventable if you know the warning signs, take immediate action, and contact the right professionals.

Need professional gas leak detection? Contact Melbourne Gas Plumber for fast, licensed assistance. Final Reminder: Never ignore a gas leak. Safety first, always!