Also known as liquefied petroleum gas or LPG, propane is a dependable, stable, and affordable fuel source. It is almost odorless, non-toxic, and colorless. In general, propane is safe to use. However, it is still flammable and can result in poisoning or burns if it isn’t handled correctly. Learn more about the safety precautions you should take with propane so that you and your family remain safe. This article includes a discussion on a few important propane tips you can use.
Helpful Tips When Using Propane
Keep reading to explore some useful tips for those who use propane heating at home.
Do Not Conduct DIY Tasks On Your Propane System
If you do not have the training or the qualifications to do so, never try to repair, test, modify or replace any part of your propane heating system or tank. Any errors you might make when installing or re-connecting components can cause dangerous gas leaks. Call a qualified HVAC technician if any problem arises with your system. This way, you can be sure that all the checks, repairs, and replacements are conducted safely.
Be Aware Of Possible Propane Leaks
Propane is a petroleum product that is considered to be a clean energy source. However, it can still cause adverse effects when it leaks inside your home. If it does happen, you will smell something like rotten eggs. It isn’t the gas’ natural odor as this is an artificial smell added to it to make it easier to detect. There might be a leak if you smell sulfur around your home, so you should quickly do something about it.
Switch off all open flames and put out anything that can result in combustion, like a cigarette or candle. Moreover, turn off valves connected to the gas line. Everyone, including pets, should leave the house until a professional inspects and fixes the leak.
Bear in mind that not all leaks can be detected using your nose. It is always recommended to install a propane gas detector just to be on the safe side. This will be helpful, especially if there are elderly, very young children, or people with an impaired sense of smell living in your home. This device senses the propane concentration in the air regardless of whether the gas is dispersed by soil, wind, or other elements.
Another simple way to detect if gas is leaking is by using water and soap. Put this mixture on the connectors and joints. If it inflates or bubbles, there might be a leak. Go outside immediately and call 911 when you smell gas in your home.
Don’t Let The Propane Tank Run Empty
Don’t allow your residential propane tank to run empty to prevent leaks from happening and to keep your home safe. If the propane tank is empty and it is connected to an open gas line, water or air can seep in. The tank also becomes susceptible to corrosion as time passes, and this can reduce the propane gas’ odor. Rust causes the tank’s metal components to break, increasing the likelihood that gas could escape. An empty propane tank will also cause the pilot light to go out when it is always supposed to be on.
Maintain Proper Care Of The Propane-Fired HVAC System
Book regular heating system tune-ups with a licensed HVAC technician. This will help prevent problems with your propane system. Regular checkups make it very easy to identify potential issues and repair them. It also helps extend your system’s service life, lower heating costs, and keep your home safe.
Watch The Furnace Flame
Propane burners usually have a blue flame that ranges from light to a slightly darker hue. If the flame is orange or yellow, you might have carbon monoxide issues or other problems. Contact your local, trusted heating technician to check the burner right away.
Check The Heating System After Bad Weather
Heavy snow, flooding, and storms can cause damage to your propane system, particularly those that are located in the exterior part of your home. Check your system for holes, cracks, and other issues after experiencing bad weather. Clear the snow on the tank, valves, pipes, and other components. If it flooded in your area, switch off the main gas valve. Have a heating technician check your system as well.
You Can Get Reliable Propane Delivery From Tevis Energy
Call Tevis Energy for fast, friendly, and reliable propane delivery in central Maryland and southern Pennsylvania. We offer high-quality fuel delivery.
You can trust Tevis Energy to consistently supply unbeatable service. Call us now to find out more about our home propane delivery plans and financing.
We also provide a comprehensive range of HVAC services for assured efficiency and home comfort. Among some of the services we provide are furnace repairs, heater tune-ups, and HVAC installation among many other things. Call us today!
You can click here to contact us now or call us at (410) 876-6800 to find out more!