Propane Safety Best Practices

P&R Propane is committed to safe propane delivery and service

propane safety

P&R Propane, alongside other industry leaders and with the support of stringent government regulations, has upheld the highest standards in the propane industry. Our commitment to excellence has helped to earn propane an outstanding safety track record.

Your well-being is our priority, and we’re here to make sure that you have the best experience possible with propane.

While propane is safe for home use, it is crucial that you know how to use it properly and respond in the rare occurrence of a leak. We’ve compiled essential propane safety topics to equip you with the knowledge necessary for safe home usage.

Does propane go bad?

One big advantage of propane is that it doesn’t spoil.

Propane is the preferred fuel for both portable and whole-house standby generators due to its stability. Unlike gasoline, which can degrade in as little as three months, or diesel, which can spoil in six months, propane offers reliable, long-term performance.

What does propane gas smell like?

Recognizing the scent of propane is essential for safety. If the odor is unnoticed, detecting leaks becomes impossible. Being familiar with propane’s distinctive aroma is key to your safety and to preventing hazards.

Propane naturally lacks any odor, but propane producers intentionally add ethyl mercaptan during production to give it a particular scent. This helps to make sure that leaks can be easily detected.

If you notice a strong odor resembling rotten eggs or skunk spray, and it’s not either of those things, it’s likely a propane gas leak.

What to do if you smell propane gas

To safeguard yourself if propane gas is detected at home, it’s vital to understand what actions to avoid.

DON’T panic. Below, you’ll find our propane leak safety guidelines. These are designed to prepare you to handle the situation with confidence and effectiveness.

DON’T attempt to locate the source of the leak. Leave this task to our experts and focus on your safety and that of those around you. Our team’s proven expertise will offer you peace of mind.

Let’s now get into detail on what you need to do in the event of a propane leak.

  1. Evacuate the house immediately, ensuring that all pets are safely accounted for.
  2. Make sure that all potential ignition sources, like candles or cigarettes, are thoroughly extinguished before you leave.
  3. As you leave, be careful not to use any items that may create a spark, such as light switches, telephones or vape pens.
  4. If you can safely access it, turn off the propane supply valve on your tank. Every adult at home should know this crucial procedure.
  5. After reaching a safe distance from the leak, promptly contact 911 and P&R Propane.
  6. Please keep a safe distance while our first responders and service technicians expertly locate the source of the leak and complete necessary repairs. Once everything is confirmed safe, we’ll let you know when you can return home.
Become a Customer

How to prevent propane leaks

Regularly scheduling professional maintenance for your propane appliances is crucial for preventing propane leaks.

Our expert propane service technicians will meticulously inspect your appliances during each maintenance check. If any potential issues are identified, we will promptly resolve and repair them.

To improve your home’s safety, consider installing propane leak detectors. Position them strategically near propane appliances such as water heaters, stoves and fireplaces. Remember, propane gas is heavier than air, so place the sensors lower—ideally below the height of your bed’s pillows.

Do you know how to shut off your propane supply valve? If you or other adults in your household don’t know how to do this, contact P&R Propane, and we’ll gladly teach you. This is part of our commitment to our customers’ safety.

It is essential to recognize that carbon monoxide detectors and propane leak detectors have distinct functions. A common misconception is that carbon monoxide detectors can also detect propane leaks, and vice versa. However, this is not true. Carbon monoxide detectors are designed solely to detect carbon monoxide, while propane leak detectors are specifically for identifying propane leaks. For optimal safety, it is crucial to install both types of detectors in your home.

Ensure safety by staying informed on proper propane usage and propane tank safety. Enhance your understanding of safe propane usage by watching PERC’s safety-themed videos below.