Propane is a gas that’s used to heat homes and provide a power source for things later water heaters, stoves, fire places, dryers, and even backup generators. It’s most commonly stored in a pressurized tank as a liquid, and vaporizes into its gaseous form when the pressure is released.
Its affordability and stability make propane a great fuel source, but as a homeowner, you should know how to handle it properly to keep yourself and your family safe. Here are some safety tips we recommend:
Know How to Identify & Manage Propane Leaks
Propane doesn’t have a naturally occurring odor, so artificial smells like rotten eggs or sulfur are added to help alert us when there’s a leak.
If you notice these smells around your home, snuff out all open flames like candles or cigarettes, and turn off any valves connected to your gas line. Evacuate any people and/or pets until a professional arrives to fix the leak.
It also helps to install a propane gas detector, since not all leaks can be detected using your nose.
Don't Let Your Propane Tank Become Empty
Empty propane tanks connected to open gas lines are subject to water or air seeping in. They also become susceptible to corrosion, resulting in rust and the reduction of the gas’s artificial odor — which both can lead to leaks.
Luckily, this is something our customers don’t have to worry about when they register for our automatic delivery service.
Check Your System After Bad Storms
Rough weather conditions can damage your propane system, especially if it’s outside. After a storm, examine your tank for holes, cracks, and any other damage of that nature.
Clear any snow or debris from the tank, valves, pipes, and other components, and be sure to switch off your main gas valve if your area experienced any flooding.
It’s also not a bad idea to have a technician come and inspect your system after a storm.
Take Good Care of Your Propane-Fueled HVAC System
Booking regular heating system tune-ups with a professional will help prevent problems with your HVAC units. These regular maintenance checks are key for identifying potential issues and fixing them before they can become dangerous, expensive to repair, or both.
Getting in the habit of routine checks also helps to extend your system’s life, which can lower your heating costs.
Keep an Eye on the Furnace Flame
Remember that your propane burned flame should always be blue — whether it’s a light or dark shade, as long as it’s blue, your furnace is functioning properly.
If you notice an orange or yellow flame, contact your heating technician right away, because this could indicate carbon monoxide issues.
As a homeowner, understanding how to manage and maintain your propane tank is important for keeping you and your family safe.
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