When it comes to residential and commercial fuels, propane’s safety record is top notch. The National Propane Gas Association’s stringent safety standards are a big reason for this, as the organization’s guidelines and standards cover topics including running fuel lines, hooking up appliances, filling portable cylinders and installing propane tanks.
Be on the lookout for periodic mailings with information about what to do if you smell gas. The mailings will also provide useful info about carbon monoxide safety, propane gas detectors, general appliance safety tips and more.
While propane is odorless, manufacturers add an odor to it as a way to alert homeowners of a gas leak. The smell is often considered reminiscent of a skunk’s spray, a dead animal or rotten eggs. It’s important for the people in your home to know this smell. Concerned that someone might not catch the smell in the event of an emergency? If so, think about getting one or more propane gas detectors to help keep everyone safe.
Do you smell propane at home? Follow these tips:
DO:
DO NOT:
A blue flame is an indication that your gas appliance is operating properly. Yellow flames are an indication that the gas is not completely burning. Another indicator of this serious issue is significant amounts of soot on any equipment. Any of these issues can create carbon monoxide. Contact your propane company for service if you notice a yellow flame or soot on your appliances.
In addition, it’s a good idea to regularly check the outdoor vents of your appliances. This is so you can ensure combustion gases flow unobstructed to the outdoors. Birds, insects and even small animals can make themselves at home in vent pipes. Prevent damage with a broom or a soft brush: gently remove any obstructions you find in your vents.
Propane is, hands down, one of the safest fuels you can use at home. Still, it’s important to pay close attention to your gas appliances and how they’re operating. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for preventive maintenance. And always refer to your owner’s manuals for the requirements in that area.
These days, it’s often easy to learn how to do something new by going online and learning about it. However, the do-it-yourself approach is not the way to go with propane repairs. YouTube may give you a best-case-scenario approach, but this quick-fix is often no fix for your Iowa home.
It’s important to note that these videos don’t usually show what happens when that amateur repair doesn’t go as planned. This can lead to expensive and unsafe consequences – especially when it comes to repairing gas appliances.
The unique challenges that come with propane repairs are best left to those who have received extensive training and have the diagnostic equipment to address the problem correctly and safely.
Avoid severe damage and dangerous consequences – like explosions or carbon monoxide leaks – and let an expert take care of your repairs.
Remember: If you need a propane repair, don’t attempt to do it yourself – contact your local propane professional. They have the experience, tools and training to identify and fix your problem quickly, correctly and safely so you can focus on your own family and priorities.
Follow the safety tips here and then contact your propane company if you have any questions or concerns.
