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I Smell a Leak

Do You Smell a Gas Leak?

How To Detect A Propane Gas Leak

LOOK ON THE BACK OF YOU DELIVERY TICKET FOR HELP

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For your safety and the safety of those around you, it is important to inspect your propane tank and outdoor propane appliances for leaks regularly.

Propane leaks are flammable and, as such, can be very dangerous. At a minimum, you should conduct this leak test before the first use of the season, or if you haven’t used your propane-powered appliance in a while.

Signs that your tank may have a leak:

You Smell Gas

One of the fastest and easiest ways to identify a propane leak is by the smell. A smell like rotten eggs or skunk spray indicates you may have a propane leak. If you smell propane, contact Newflame immediately at 1-360-823-1222.

Usage Spikes

If you’re suddenly going through propane much faster than usual and you haven’t significantly changed your usage behavior, a leak may be the culprit.

Poor Performance

If your propane grill, space heater, or fire pit have a smaller, weaker flame than usual, or they just aren’t working the way they usually do, you may have a propane leak.

How to Conduct a Leak Check using the “Bubble Test”

Turn the propane tank off.

Turn the tank service valve hand wheel all the way to the right, so it is firmly in the OFF position.

Apply propane leak detector solution.

Use either special leak detector solution or, in a pinch, use thick soapy water. Apply this solution to the connections between the cylinder valve and the regulator outlet.

Slowly open the valve and watch for bubbles.

If bubbles appear at these connection points, close the cylinder valve, tighten the connection, and repeat the process. If bubbles continue to appear, call AmeriGas immediately so we can help.

What to do if you Find a Propane Gas Leak

Turn off the cylinder valve.

As long as it’s safe to do so, turn the hand wheel clockwise completely to the right, until it’s firmly in the OFF position. If you cannot turn the hand wheel, leave the area immediately and dial 911 or call your local fire department.

Ensure there are no flames or sparks.

Immediately put out all smoking materials and other open flames. Do not operate lights, appliances, telephones, or cell phones. Flames or sparks from these sources can trigger an explosion or a fire.

Get your grill and propane tank checked.

Do NOT try to use your grill again until you can determine what the problem may be. You can have a qualified service technician take a look at your grill, and either swap out your tank at a local retailer or contact us to see if there’s a local office nearby to have your propane tank inspected.

General Safety Precautions when using Propane

  • General Safety Precautions when using Propane As a general rule, when in doubt, call us. Here are some general guidelines on what NOT to do, to make sure you’re using your propane safely!
  • NEVER use outdoor propane appliances (including portable heaters, grills, and generators) indoors or in enclosed areas. This could result in carbon monoxide poisoning, extreme danger, or even death. Only use appliances that are designed and approved for indoor use.
  • NEVER store or place a propane cylinder indoors or in an enclosed area such as a basement, garage, shed, or tent. It is illegal and highly unsafe to store propane tanks indoors.
  • NEVER try to modify or repair valves, regulators, or other appliance parts.
  • NEVER turn on a light switch, use any power source, or inspect your household appliances while standing in water. This can result in electrocution.
  • NEVER store combustible materials near appliances.
  • ONLY inspect your propane appliances for water or other damage if it is safe to do so. If the appliances have electric components and have been exposed to water, they can create a fire hazard.
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