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Reviewed by Marcus AldridgeSenior Editorial Reviewer — Plumbing, HVAC & Wet Trades

Who to call · Plumber

Gas leak near appliance? Here's Who to Call

SAFETY FIRST: if you smell the distinctive rotten-egg odor of natural gas (mercaptan) near a stove, furnace, water heater, or gas line, evacuate everyone from the building immediately. Do not flip light switches, use phones indoors, or start vehicles in the garage — any spark can ignite the gas. Once outside, call your gas utility's emergency line, then 911 if the odor is strong. A gas leak is typically caused by a loose or corroded fitting, a cracked flexible connector (appliance line), a failed gas valve, or a pilot light that blew out and is releasing unburned gas. After the utility confirms the area is safe, a licensed plumber or gas-line technician pressure-tests the supply lines, tightens or replaces fittings, and checks every appliance connection. Even a small leak that you barely smell can accumulate in enclosed spaces to explosive levels, so never ignore the odor or attempt DIY repair.

What's going on

How to fix gas leak near appliance

Some "gas leak near appliance" cases look simple, but getting it wrong almost always costs more than calling a pro: hidden leaks, fire risk, code violations, and insurance headaches. A licensed plumber will diagnose the exact cause, use the right professional tools, and stand behind the repair. Most local pros offer free quotes and can visit the same day or the next.

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Symptoms to look for

  1. 01

    Rotten-egg or sulfur-like smell near the stove, furnace, or water heater

  2. 02

    Hissing or whistling sound coming from a gas line or appliance connection

  3. 03

    Pilot light on the furnace or water heater keeps going out

  4. 04

    Dead or dying houseplants near a gas appliance with no other explanation

  5. 05

    Physical symptoms such as headache, dizziness, or nausea when indoors

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Who should I call for: Gas leak near appliance?

Call a licensed plumber. Plumbers have the specialized training, tools, and insurance to diagnose gas leak near appliance safely and stand behind the fix. Most offer free quotes and can visit the same day or the next.

Can I fix this myself?

Some minor cases can be handled DIY, but most require a licensed plumber to avoid costly rework and safety risks. A free quote takes under a minute.

How fast can a pro come out?

Most plumbers offer same-day or next-day visits for non-emergency issues. True emergencies (burst pipes, gas smell, no heat in winter) are typically handled within 1–4 hours.

How much does it cost to fix?

Costs vary by severity and your location. Submit a free quote request to get real pricing from local pros in your area.

What are the signs of: Gas leak near appliance?

Rotten-egg or sulfur-like smell near the stove, furnace, or water heater. Hissing or whistling sound coming from a gas line or appliance connection. Pilot light on the furnace or water heater keeps going out. Dead or dying houseplants near a gas appliance with no other explanation. Physical symptoms such as headache, dizziness, or nausea when indoors.