Propane Leak Safety: 7 Steps To Take If You Suspect A Propane Leak

Propane safety is of the utmost importance when it comes to propane gas leaks. If you suspect a gas leak in your home or business, stop what you’re doing, leave the area immediately, and call your propane supplier from a safe location immediately to report the leak.

Propane manufacturers add a distinctive skunk or rotten egg smell to propane so you are able to detect right away if there is a leak. Follow our steps below to keep you and your family safe in the event of a propane leak. For information on how to prevent a propane gas tank leak from happening in the first place, we recommend calling a residential propane supply company near you.

1.) Check Propane Tank For Leaks

The easiest way to detect propane gas leaks is if you smell the bad odor added by the manufacturer. However, people on certain medications or the elderly may be unable to smell propane as well as others. While it’s rare, it may also be possible that the smell added by the manufacturer has dissipated due to rust inside the tank.

Checking for a propane tank leak is easy. Apply soapy water or a special leak detector solution to where the propane tank’s cylinder valve and regulator outlet connect. Next, you’ll need to slowly open the cylinder valve. Bubbles will form if there is a leak.

2.) Reduce the Risk of Fire or Explosion

With any gas leak, there is always the concern that the slightest ignition could start a fire or explosion. Once a gas leak has been confirmed, you’ll need to put out any open flames. Do NOT turn on light switches, household appliances, or even use your phone. The slightest spark could cause an explosion.

Watch this quick video on what to do if you suspect a propane leak or smell gas.

3.) Shut Off the Main Gas Supply Valve On the Tank

If you are able to, turn the main gas supply valve clockwise to prevent more propane gas from leaking into your home. After, immediately move to a safe location, call 911 and your propane supplier.

Remember: Do not use your cell phone until you’re in a safe location.

4.) Immediately Evacuate the Building or Area

If you are able, open as many windows as possible as you exit the house. This will help some of the built-up gas escape from your house, reducing the risk of fire or explosions. Do not stop to pack any possessions. Inhaling propane gas can make breathing difficult or impossible.

5.) Call 911

Call 911 and then your propane supply company as soon as you and your family are a safe distance away from the home. Your propane supplier and local fire department are able to respond to propane leaks 24/7.

6.) Stay Away until Leak is Stopped

Once you have evacuated the house, do not return until your local fire department has stopped the leak and deemed your home safe to re-enter. Do not be tempted to go back inside the home to get belongings. Breathing in propane gas can be deadly.

7.) Schedule Propane Tank Inspection

Before using any of our propane household appliances, you’ll need to schedule a propane tank inspection to ensure the leak is stopped and fixed so it won’t happen again. To prevent leaks from happening in the first place, we recommend scheduling routine propane gas tank inspections so you and your family can stay safe.

Commonly asked questions.

Do propane tanks leak over time?

Propane tanks shouldn’t leak over time. Believe it or not, running out of gas in your propane tank can be dangerous. If the propane appliance valve or gas line of a propane tank remains open after the propane supply runs out, a leak may occur when the tank is refilled.

What are some ways to turn on a propane tank safely?

We advise you to leave turning on your propane tank to your propane supply company. While it’s as simple as turning a valve, there can be some significant complications with leaks from the tank to your house.

How to fix a leaking propane tank valve?

If your propane tank is leaking at the valve, call your local propane company and tell them that you have discovered a leak in your propane tank. It’s crucial that you don’t try to repair the tank yourself and let a professional come to your home to do a system check or pick up the tank.

Crystal Flash is a residential propane gas supplier in Michigan that offers propane tank installation and inspection services to keep homeowners safe from gas leaks. For more information on how we protect our customers from gas leaks through propane tank maintenance services, be sure to call any of our Michigan Propane Delivery locations.