Came home yesterday to the smell of gas

"fhrblig" (fhrblig) 06/28/2014 at 11:47 • Filed to: None

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Why? Because the water heater sprung a leak and extinguished the pilot light.

The gas man could not shut off the water to just the heater because the valve is broken, so he had to shut off ALL the water. Good times. Waiting for a call back from Lowe's to see when they can come out to measure. We're trying to get it done this weekend, but I don't know if it will happen. Good thing my gym is only 3 blocks away, at least I can shower.

Have some exhaust flames.

Twingo Tamer - About to descend into project car hell. > fhrblig 06/28/2014 at 11:51

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"and then the refridgerators compressor could've clicked on"

vdub_nut: scooter snob > fhrblig 06/28/2014 at 11:51

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Gas leaks

fhrblig > Twingo Tamer - About to descend into project car hell. 06/28/2014 at 11:58

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I can't believe how lucky we were. Fortunately I was able to air it out quick.

Twingo Tamer - About to descend into project car hell. > fhrblig 06/28/2014 at 12:11

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Explosions due to leaks are actually very rare unless left for a while in a very well sealed place with very little ventilation. Unless you have a big ignition source near the leak.

ttyymmnn > fhrblig 06/28/2014 at 12:24

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I had the same problem a few years ago. Major inconvenience. Be sure that they inspect the flooring around the heater. Unchecked water leaks can erode the floor, which can cause a full water heater to fall through the floor, rupturing the gas line. Obviously, the shut off valve will need to be replaced, and you'll likely have to upgrade the water feed lines. Good luck.

fhrblig > ttyymmnn 06/28/2014 at 12:44

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We're in a condo, and this is in the crawlspace. The floor beneath it is dirt, covered with black trash-bag-type plastic sheeting.

We're going to go with a tankless heater, which we've wanted for a while. So I guess it's ok this happened, and also that it didn't happen in winter.

Roberto G. > fhrblig 06/28/2014 at 14:04

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Consider yourself lucky. VERY lucky. And from now on, start considering as well to get the habit of periodically checking the good working of all your water and gas valves.