Technically, natural gas does not have a smell. However, because a buildup of natural gas is dangerous, gas companies add a harmless chemical called mercaptan to give gas a detectable (and not very pleasant) odor.

Most people say mercaptan smells like rotten eggs or sulfur. At Getzschman Heating and Air Conditioning, we put safety first. Here is some information about gas leaks, their dangers, and what to do if you smell natural gas.

How to Identify a Gas Leak

Beyond the distinctive natural gas odor (rotten egg smell), you might notice:

Hissing sounds near gas lines (indicating gas escaping under pressure)
Dead or dying plants near gas lines (gas displacing oxygen to roots)
Bubbling in standing water near gas line (gas forcing its way through liquid)
Higher than normal gas bills (suggesting ongoing leaks)

Is Natural Gas Toxic?

Dangers of natural gas in your home include …

Asphyxiation Risk

Natural gas doesn’t poison your body directly. Instead, it creates danger by displacing oxygen in the air. As gas fills a space:

Less oxygen is available to breathe
Your body receives decreased oxygen with each breath
Organs begin to suffer from oxygen deprivation

Warning signs of asphyxiation include:

Flu-like symptoms (weakness, nausea, headaches)
Dizziness
Breathing difficulties
Chest pain
Ringing in ears

Fire and Explosion Risk

Natural gas is highly flammable. Even a tiny spark can trigger ignition. Because of this danger, you must know how to respond to a natural gas leak.

What to Do If You Smell Natural Gas

Actions to Avoid

Don’t Use Your Phone Inside

Even a cell phone can create a tiny electrical spark when connecting a call or sending signals to cell towers.

Don’t Touch Electrical Switches

Flipping a light switch creates a small spark inside the switch plate that could ignite accumulated gas.

Don’t Open or Close Windows

While ventilation might seem helpful, this action can:

Create static electricity
Change air pressure in ways that affect gas concentration Let emergency responders handle ventilation safely.

Actions to Take

If you smell a natural gas leak, you should:

Exit Immediately

Gas accumulates from top to bottom in spaces
Quick evacuation reduces exposure risk

Leave Doors Open As You Exit

Helps emergency responders access the building
Provides natural ventilation without forced air movement

Move to a Safe Distance

Call 911 from outside
Wait for emergency responders
Contact your gas company

How To Protect Your Home From a Natural Gas Leak?

Standard carbon monoxide detectors won’t detect natural gas. For complete protection:

Install dedicated natural gas detectors
Consider hybrid alarms that detect multiple gases
Schedule regular maintenance for gas appliances
Know where your gas shutoff valve is located

Professional Help When You Need It

At Getzschman Heating, we understand the importance of gas safety. Our certified technicians provide:

Annual safety inspections
Gas appliance maintenance
Emergency response services

If you need help with gas appliances or want to schedule a safety inspection, call Getzschman at (402) 925-9930.

Remember: If you ever smell gas, evacuate first and call emergency services from a safe location. Are you noticing furnace odors other than natural gas? Learn when you should be concerned.