What happens next
- Get out and call from outside.Use a phone once you are away from the house. Tell the dispatcher you smell gas near a water heater.
- Let the responders lead.SoCalGas or the fire department will check for leaks and may shut off gas at the meter.
- Do not relight anything.If gas was shut off, relighting appliances is for the gas company or a qualified technician.
- Have the heater checked.Once it is safe, a licensed plumber should inspect the gas connector, valve and venting before the heater runs again.
How a water heater vents
A typical gas tank in a garage or closet uses a draft hood on top: hot exhaust rises into the vent pipe and pulls room air in with it, carrying combustion gases up and out through the roof. It only works if the vent is intact, properly sloped and sized, and not blocked.
When the vent is disconnected, rusted through or obstructed, exhaust can spill back into the room. That is called backdrafting, and the exhaust can contain carbon monoxide, which you cannot see or smell.
Venting warning signs
- Scorch marks or soot around the draft hood or burner opening
- Vent pipe sections loose, separated or heavily rusted
- Melted plastic on fittings near the top of the heater
- Moisture or rust streaks running down the outside of the vent
- A carbon monoxide alarm sounding anywhere in the house
Gas smell or exhaust problem?
- IfRotten-egg smell in the air near the heaterTreat as a gas leak. Leave and call 911 or SoCalGas from outside.
- IfRotten-egg smell only from hot water at the tapUsually an anode rod reaction in the tank, not a gas leak. Have a plumber check it.
- IfCarbon monoxide alarm soundsGet everyone outside into fresh air and call 911. Do not go back in until responders say it is safe.
- IfSoot or scorching, no alarmTurn the heater off and have a licensed plumber inspect venting and combustion before using it.
Common questions
- Can I check for a gas leak with soapy water myself?
- If you smell gas, do not investigate. Leave and call from outside. Leak testing is for the gas company or a licensed professional.
- Does a new water heater need new venting?
- Sometimes. A different size, a newer design or a switch to tankless can change venting needs. The installer should confirm the vent suits the new heater.
- Who do I call about the gas meter?
- SoCalGas handles gas service and the meter. A licensed plumber handles the house piping and the heater itself.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.