Natural gas appliances can be used in many places in the home. From stoves to air-conditioning units, there is a natural gas counterpart to almost every electric appliance. And as with any appliance, proper upkeep is a vital part of maintaining longevity and efficiency. Do you know the proper ways to stay on top of these household duties? Read on for a detailed list.

Stay On Top Of Check-Ups

You should have your appliances serviced at least once a year by a qualified professional. A gas inspection will cover many crucial details — whether your ventilation is blocked, whether appliances are fully functioning, and whether each appliance is suitable for the room it is in. These safety precautions should never be overlooked. When looking for a gas engineer to inspect your home, always verify their credentials. These inspections should not be attempted by homeowners themselves — proper safety measures, equipment, and expertise are what keep your home and family safe.

Know The Signs

Did you know that natural gas is actually odorless? For the safety of users, a harmless chemical called mercaptan is added to give gas a distinctive smell. That rotten egg or sulfur odor is the number one sign you may have a natural gas leak. You may also notice a hissing or whistling noise you cannot identify, or even a whitish cloud of air. The physical effects of natural gas exposure can include unexplained headaches, nausea, loss of appetite, and lethargy. Always make sure your carbon monoxide detector is working with fresh batteries. If you suspect a leak, leave the entire house immediately and contact emergency services.

Keep Away

Certain items should naturally be kept away from any flammable substance. While natural gas is by no means a volatile gas, you should avoid storing combustible fluids or solids near your natural gas appliances. These include paint and paint thinners, gasoline, and cleaning supplies. A good rule of thumb is to also keep unsupervised animals and children away from these appliances at all times.

Safety and preparation should always be top of mind when it comes to what happens in your home. By following these guidelines, your natural gas appliances will stay in top working condition — saving you money and giving you peace of mind. Keep checking back to the Kratos Gas & Power blog for helpful lifestyle tips!