Gas Safety Inspections
Professional inspection to keep your home's gas system safe
Ensure Your Gas System Is Safe
Natural gas is a safe and efficient fuel when properly installed and maintained. However, aging connections, corrosion, or improper previous work can create safety hazards. Patterson Mechanical's licensed gas fitters provide thorough gas safety inspections to identify potential problems before they become dangerous.
Whether you're buying a home, concerned about an older gas system, or just want peace of mind, a professional gas inspection gives you confidence that your family is safe.
What We Inspect
Gas Line Integrity
We examine all visible gas piping for signs of corrosion, damage, or improper installation. This includes checking pipe supports and protection where pipes enter walls or floors.
Connection Points
Every connection point is a potential leak location. We inspect all fittings, unions, and appliance connections for proper installation and signs of deterioration.
Appliance Connections
We check that all gas appliances are properly connected with appropriate flexible connectors or rigid piping, and that shut-off valves are accessible and functional.
Leak Detection
Using professional leak detection methods, we test your gas system for any leaks, no matter how small. Even minor leaks need immediate attention.
Venting Systems
Proper venting is critical for gas appliances. We inspect vent pipes, chimneys, and connections to ensure combustion gases safely exit your home.
Code Compliance
We identify any installations that don't meet current safety codes. While older work may have been acceptable when installed, upgrades may be recommended for safety.
When You Need a Gas Inspection
- Buying a home: Know the condition of the gas system before you purchase
- Older home: Gas systems over 20 years old should be inspected regularly
- Smell of gas: If you ever smell gas, leave immediately and call the utility, then have us inspect
- After renovations: Construction work near gas lines can cause damage
- Previous DIY work: If you suspect previous owners did unpermitted gas work
- Insurance requirements: Some insurers require gas inspections for older homes
- Peace of mind: Annual inspections catch problems early
Signs of Gas System Problems
Contact us immediately if you notice any of these warning signs:
- Rotten egg smell: Natural gas has an added odor for safety. Any gas smell requires immediate attention.
- Hissing sounds: A hissing sound near gas lines or appliances may indicate a leak
- Dead vegetation: Gas leaks underground can kill plants in a localized area
- Higher gas bills: Unexplained increases may indicate a leak
- Yellow or orange flames: Gas flames should burn blue. Other colors indicate combustion problems.
- Soot or black marks: Around gas appliances may indicate improper combustion
If You Smell Gas
Leave your home immediately. Do not turn on lights or use any electrical devices. Once outside, call Manitoba Hydro's emergency line and then call us for repair and inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I have my gas system inspected?
We recommend annual inspections for homes with gas heating and appliances. Older systems or those with previous issues should be checked more frequently. Many homeowners include gas inspection as part of their annual furnace maintenance.
How long does a gas inspection take?
A typical residential gas inspection takes 30-60 minutes, depending on the number of gas appliances and the complexity of your system. We'll examine all gas lines and connections throughout your home.
What if you find a problem during the inspection?
We'll explain the issue and provide options for repair. Minor issues can often be fixed immediately. For safety hazards, we may need to shut off gas to the affected appliance until repairs are made.
Schedule a Gas Safety Inspection
Contact Patterson Mechanical for professional gas system inspection in Stonewall, Winnipeg, and surrounding areas.