07919 008441 / 01604 307509 info@hunsburyheating.co.uk


As most central heating systems and boilers operate on gas, leaks can occasionally happen. What’s important is keeping your head and knowing what to do in case of an emergency. So, in case you smell gas at home, turn off your gas supply immediately. The gas mains tap is usually located beside the gas meter. To shut off the gas supply, you should move the handle until its at 90 degrees from the pipe. 

If after shutting off all the gas appliances, you still smell gas, then there’s definitely a leak and you need to take steps to contain the problem. 

Firstly, call and alert the National Gas Emergency officials on 0800 111 999. Since gas leaks qualifies as an emergency, you’ll receive prompt assistance. 

The National Gas Emergency Line can be contacted 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

How Will I Detect A Gas Leak? – Symptoms To Be Aware Of

The distinct smell of gas is perhaps the most obvious sign of a probable leak. Moreover, if you start feeling a bit off, it could be because of the gas leak.

Some symptoms to watch out for include:

  • Lightheadedness
  • Nausea
  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Irregular breathing
  • Fatigue

If you experience any of these symptoms while suspecting a gas leak, step outside immediately and breathe in the fresh air. You should feel better after this.

Incidentally, carbon monoxide poisoning has the same list of symptoms as well. Which is why stepping out of your home as fast as you can is extremely important to avoid serious issues that could cost you dearly.

What Should I Do If I Suspect A Gas Leak?

  • Throw the windows and doors of your home wide open and let the fresh air in.
  • Turn the gas mains tap off to cut off the gas supply completely.
  • Leave the premises immediately
  • Call the National Gas Emergencies number on 0800 111 999. 
  • Ensure that you use your phone from outside the building and not where there’s a potential gas leak.
  • Listen to what the emergency adviser has to say and follow their instructions.
  • Wait outside of the premises for the gas engineer to arrive.
  • If you feel queasy and nauseous, you should pay your general physician a visit without further delay. Let them know that you’ve been exposed to a potential gas leak or carbon monoxide poisoning.
  • Refrain from lighting a match or smoking within the premises. Basically, avoid any form of naked flame.
  • Avoid switching any electrical devices or lights on or off.
  • Avoid using mobile phones, doorbell, or any other electrical device or switch that can cause potential sparks.

If you have a home emergency cover you could call your supplier immediately after you’ve called the National Gas Emergency service line. We’ll send over one of our Gas Safe registered engineers who’ll diagnose the problem and fix the gas leak efficiently!

How Do I Prevent Gas Leak From Happening?

There are certain steps that you can take in advance to be gas safe and prevent a leak from happening. Ensure that all the appliances you get are installed by a Gas Safe engineer, Having a gas detector alarm could add to the safety of you and your family. 

Additionally, it’ll help if you get a carbon monoxide detector installed in your home as well. Because carbon monoxide is colourless and odourless, it could be fatal. So having a detector will be for the best. 

Make sure that you get all your appliances routinely serviced and checked for gas safety. If you’re a tenant, ask your landlord for a gas safety certificate for the place.

It’s against the law to use a gas appliance if you have your doubts about its safety. 

Contact the Hunsbury Heating team today on 07919 008441 for a thorough safety check.