How Can I Recognize A Propane Leak In My Home?

Propane is one of the safest energy sources to use in a home. Propane is great for the environment as it burns cleaner than other fuel sources. Propane is also great for your budget, as it is much cheaper than other sources of energy. However, on rare occasions, residents may experience a propane leak in their home. There are a few things you can do to recognize a propane leak in your home. The following tips will help you determine if you have a propane leak, and take action in the event that you have a propane leak in your home.

How to Recognize a Propane Leak

One of the fastest and easiest ways to identify a propane leak is by the smell. Propane has a very strong and very unpleasant smell. This smell is likened to the smell of rotten eggs, the spray from a skunk, or even a deceased animal. This smell is added by propane manufacturer’s to help consumers identify propane leaks. It can be helpful to have your propane professional give you a quick tutorial on this, so you know exactly what to look for.

How to Handle a Propane Leak

If you determine that you have a propane leak in your home, take action immediately. This will help you ensure the safety of those in your house and your neighbors living in close proximity to your home.

First, eliminate all sources of ignition. This can include flames from a fireplace or even a cigarette. Light switches and appliances can also trigger a spark. Cell phones and landline phones can also emit sparks that could be a source of ignition.

Next, leave the area. Remove all people and pets from the home, and retreat to a safe distance away from your residence. This will ensure that no one breathes in any fumes or is harmed by an accidental ignition of the leak.

You should also shut off the propane supply to your home. Turn the main valve on your propane tank clockwise (to the right) to shut off the fuel supply. You should have your propane professional show you how to do this now, so you will be comfortable doing it later if an emergency situation arises. If the leak is in an appliance or other device, you can also turn off the propane supply to just that appliance. It is always a good idea to turn off the main valve, however.

You should also report the leak to the proper authorities. Call your propane retailer. You should also call 911 or your local police or fire department for assistance. Remember, your phone can be a source of ignition to a propane leak, so you should ensure that you are a good distance away from your home when you make these calls.

After you have taken these steps, it is imperative that you get a propane professional to come out and check your system. Your propane service person can repair any leaks, check your system for other issues and problems, and ensure that the system is safe to operate. Never turn your system back on without having it properly checked by a professional.

Propane is safe, inexpensive, and environmentally-friendly when used properly. You should always have a professional install your system and any propane-powered appliances. You should also have your system checked on a regular basis and maintained properly by a professional that is licensed to service and maintain propane systems. By taking the proper precautions, you can enjoy your propane-powered appliances and heating sources all year round.