Ways to Detect if Furnace Gas Valves are Leaking

Furnace gas valves can leak, and those leaks can become very dangerous. That means it’s important to detect the leaks in order to be safe. There are several ways to do this, and it’s important to check regularly. Furnace gas valves can leak at any time.

Carbon Monoxide

One gas that can leak and can’t easily be detected is carbon monoxide. In order to become aware of problems with carbon monoxide you should install at least one carbon monoxide detector in your house to alert you if there’s a problem with a carbon dioxide leak.

Make sure it’s working properly and check the batteries regularly. Locate one of the units near the furnace so it will detect any carbon dioxide leak immediately.

Observation

Observation of furnace gas valves and the furnace can prove very helpful in detecting leaks from furnace gas valves. You might be able to smell any natural gas leak. You should also inspect the furnace for any cracks in the housing and check those for leaks.

Use a flashlight and mirror to inspect areas not easily accessible. Shining a light on an area, especially when the furnace is in the basement, can reveal problems you might not be aware of otherwise. Look at the furnace flames, too. If they change color when the blower kicks in, there might be a leak at one of the furnace valves.

Soap Solution

One remarkably simple way to check for leaks at the furnace gas valves is to make up a solution of soap and water in a spray bottle and spray it on the valve. If there’s a leak in the furnace gas valves, the solution will begin to bubble from the gas. This is exactly the same way you detect leaks in any gas line and, although it seems very basic, it’s been proven to be very effective.

Gas Leak Detectors

You can purchase commercial gas leak detectors to use around the furnace. These will find leaks from the furnace gas valves. The downside is that they’re not always perfect and if you rely solely on these you could miss an important leak. They should be used as part of a larger system for finding the leaks. If you think you detect a leak, confirm it by using a leak detector.

Professionals

If you feel you might have furnace gas leaks you can always call in a professional. This is an expensive proposition, as you’ll have the call out charge plus the labor charge, as well as cost of repairing any leak. That’s a big bill and you should only call out an engineer when you’ve exhausted other avenues, when you believe there’s a leak but can’t find it. But if you're convinced there is a gas leak, do not hesitate to seek professional assistance.

Combinations

Combine several of the methods above to detect furnace gas valve leaks. It’s best not to be dependent on a single method. Inspect the furnace regularly to check all the connections and that everything is working as it should be. You can also see if there are problems with rust or cracks.