Safety Guide for Propane Users
This complete safety guide covers everything from detecting gas leaks to safe usage of propane appliances and cylinders. Keep your household informed and protected.
Read and follow these safety instructions to reduce the risk of fire, explosion, and serious injury or death.
Share this information with everyone else in your home.
What to do if You
Suspect a Gas Leak
If You Suspect a Gas Leak:
A propane gas leak is an emergency. It can result in fire and explosion. Be prepared to respond.
Get everyone out of the building or area where you suspect a gas leak.
As you leave, avoid igniting the leaking gas. Some electrical devices and appliances can create sparks when manipulated.
• DO NOT turn any light switches on or off.
• Do NOT interact with any appliances, outlets, or landline phones when the appliance is not in use.
• No smoking, vaping, or open flames.
Once safely away, call your propane retailer, 911, or the fire department. Stay away from the suspected gas leak until your propane retailer, emergency responder, or qualified professional determines that it is safe to return.
unless you suspect there is a leak at the tank(s). To close the valve, turn it to the right (clockwise).
have your entire propane system checked by your propane retailer or a qualified professional to make sure there are no leaks.
INDICATORS OF A GAS LEAK
A unique odor is added to propane to help alert people to a leak. Make sure everyone in your household knows what propane odor smells like. If you do not know what propane smells like, ask your propane retailer for a sniff of the gas or additional information.
Propane gas detectors can identify leaks even when propane is not smelled.
A hissing sound may indicate that gas is escaping from a component of your propane system or appliance.
If you are using more gas than you expect, there may be a leak.
Even Though Odor is Added, You Might Not Smell a Propane Leak
There are several reasons why a propane leak may go undetected by smell:
The Propane Odor Does Not Get to Your Nose
- The odor may be present in an area where there are no people.
- Because propane is heavier than air, it may settle near the ground.
- Airflow may move or disperse the propane odor.
Your Ability to Notice the Odor is Reduced
Reasons may include:
- A cold, allergies, sinus congestion, or other medical conditions.
- Tobacco, alcohol, or drug use.
- Being older.
- Being asleep.
- “Odor fatigue.” This occurs when continuous exposure to the propane odor causes your nose to become desensitized.
- The presence of other strong odors, such as tobacco smoke, cooking smells, or musty/damp odors, which may mask the smell of propane.
Propane Has Lost Its Odor
The odor that is added to propane can sometimes be absorbed by materials such as soil, water, or rust, making it more difficult to smell (“odor loss”).
If Your Gas Runs Out or Is Shut Off
A QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL MUST CHECK THE PROPANE SYSTEM FOR LEAKS WHEN TURNING THE GAS ON.
Never turn the gas on at the propane tank yourself.
Be sure any pilot lights are properly relit as soon as the gas is turned back on.
You may be out of gas.
Check the fuel gauge on your propane tank periodically. Discuss delivery options and timing with your propane retailer.
You do not need to turn off your gas supply.
YOU SHOULD INSTALL PROPANE GAS DETECTORS
Propane gas detectors can identify leaks you do not smell. Use a propane gas detector that senses propane and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation, use, and care.
NOTE: Propane gas detectors are different from smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, although some combination detectors are available.
Respond immediately to a propane leak.
If the alarm sounds, do not go toward the alarm. Treat it as an emergency and act immediately, even if you do not smell propane odor.
NEVER ignore the smell of propane odor, even if your propane gas detectors do not alarm.
When to Use a Qualified Professional
A “qualified person” is experienced, familiar with required precautions, and complies with all requirements.
Improper installation or service of propane appliances or equipment can result in a gas leak, fire, explosion, and serious injury or death.
Use a Qualified Professional:
• Any service or changes to the gas distribution system, including tanks, cylinders, pipes, and their components.
• Installing, disconnecting, or relocating a propane appliance.
• Replacing, installing, or inspecting appliance connectors.
When your appliance manufacturer’s maintenance schedule indicates service is due.
• Propane appliances or system not operating properly.
• Problems with your pilot lights.
• Soot buildup on equipment. (This may indicate gas is not burning completely.)
• Evidence of blocked vents (for example, from nests, snow, or ice) that you are unable to clear.
Propane Appliances &
Maintenance
Lighting or troubleshooting pilot lights improperly can cause fire and explosion.
Some propane appliances use a small, constantly burning flame, called a pilot light, to ignite the main burner when needed. Check the appliance manufacturer’s information to find out if it has a pilot light.
• If you run out of gas or turn off the gas to an appliance.
• Too much or not enough ventilation.
• A problem with the appliance or propane system.
If you choose to light your pilot lights:
• Follow the appliance manufacturer’s instructions.
• If you suspect a gas leak, do not attempt to light.
• If a pilot light is difficult to light or repeatedly goes out, NEVER try to fix or troubleshoot the problem yourself.
Never try to let air out of the gas line — you will release gas. Contact a qualified professional to evaluate the appliance.
Flammable gases and vapors from cleaning fluids, paint thinners, gasoline, and other flammable liquids can be ignited by propane appliances. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe use and storage.
Flammable gases and vapors may travel along the ground and collect in low or confined areas, or follow air currents to higher levels in a building. Appliances can also draw in flammable gases or vapors as they draw in air during operation.
Maintain Your Propane Appliances
Appliances need air for proper combustion, and exhaust gases need to flow to the outdoors. Ventilation problems can result in high carbon monoxide levels in the home.
• Keep the area around your appliance clear.
• In wintry weather, keep the area around vents clear of snow and ice.
• Check appliance vents for obstructions such as insect, bird, or small animal nests. Call a qualified professional if you see evidence of blockages.
If you notice any soot (for example, on an appliance, vent, or heating register), the gas may not be burning completely, which can cause higher levels of carbon monoxide. Contact a qualified professional.
All appliances using propane must be maintained properly in order to operate safely, properly, and efficiently. Only a qualified professional has the proper training to install, service, maintain, and repair your appliances.
to inspect your propane appliances in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and schedule. For example, furnaces are often checked before each heating season begins.
Properly Install and Maintain Appliance Connectors
An appliance connector is the flexible tubing that serves as the final section of the propane system that brings gas to your appliances. Connectors must be specifically designed for use with propane appliances. Connectors that are improperly installed or that are damaged can leak gas.
• Have appliances installed by a qualified professional.
• Do not install, loosen, or disconnect appliance connectors yourself. All appliance connectors must be properly installed, inspected, maintained, and disconnected by a qualified professional.
• Over time, some types of appliance connectors can crack or break, resulting in a gas leak. A qualified professional can inspect appliance connectors to be sure they are safe and meet current code requirements.
Connectors can crack or break when flexed or twisted, such as when an appliance is moved. Use care near connectors, such as when cleaning. If you damage a connector, turn off the gas and contact a qualified professional.
Getting a New Propane Appliance
When selecting a new appliance, make sure it is designed for use with propane. Some natural gas appliances can be converted to use propane by a qualified professional.
Plan ahead! If an appliance is going to be disconnected from a gas line, even if you will not be installing a new appliance, a qualified professional must cap or plug the open gas line.
If you become aware of an open gas line, contact a qualified professional to cap or plug the open gas line.
Bad Weather: Protect Your Propane System
If flooding is predicted, turn off the gas valve at the cylinder or tank before the water rises.
Contact a qualified professional to turn the gas back on, check your propane system and appliances, and address any flood damage.
Snow and ice can damage system components, causing a gas leak. They can also block ventilation, causing high carbon monoxide levels in the home.
• Keep heavy snow and ice off of propane piping, regulators, and meters. When clearing snow, be careful to avoid damaging components. For example, use a broom rather than a shovel.
• Keep the area around appliance vents clear of snow and ice so appliances can take in fresh air and vent out exhaust gases properly. This is especially critical on the roofs of mobile homes.
Also, clear the walkway and tank area so that propane-company personnel have ready access to your tank.
In the event of extreme cold, NEVER try to keep propane storage cylinders or tanks warm by applying an external heat source.
Use Propane Space Heaters Safely
Heaters that are not designed to be used indoors can generate high levels of carbon monoxide.
for how to safely use the appliance.
What if Something Does Not Look Right After a Storm?
Never enter an area if you suspect a gas leak. If you observe that your tank has shifted position or that gas lines are bent, broken, or damaged, turn off the main gas supply valve at your tank(s) unless you suspect there is a leak at the tank(s).
Carbon Monoxide Safety
Carbon Monoxide Can Be Deadly.
Be Prepared To Respond.
Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that is colorless, odorless and tasteless. High levels can cause brain damage or death. Young children, the elderly, people with heart disease, and those under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication are particularly susceptible to carbon monoxide poisoning.
Unsafe levels of carbon monoxide can be generated by appliances that are defective or improperly installed, operated, or maintained, or have air intakes blocked. Carbon monoxide can also enter a home if an appliance venting system or chimney becomes blocked (for example, by a bird’s nest).
Everyone should get out of the building and away from where carbon monoxide is suspected.
Once safely away, call 911 or the fire department to report the presence of carbon monoxide.
Stay away from the suspected carbon monoxide until an emergency responder or other qualified professional tells you it is safe to return.
To Reduce the Risk of Carbon Monoxide (CO) Poisoning:
Carbon monoxide detectors sound an alarm when they sense excessive levels of carbon monoxide in the air. (Carbon monoxide detectors are different from smoke detectors and propane gas detectors, although some combination detectors are available.) Install a UL-listed carbon monoxide detector on each level of your home. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Have a qualified professional check your propane appliances in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and schedule. For example, furnaces are often checked before each heating season begins.
• Regularly check your appliance air intake and exhaust vents to be sure that air can flow in for the gas to burn properly and exhaust gases can flow easily to the outdoors.
• Keep vents and chimneys free of debris such as leaves and animal nests. In winter, keep them free of snow and ice.
• Always open the chimney damper when you use your fireplace.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for placement and use of vent-free appliances, including fireplaces and logs.
• Never use a gas oven or range-top burners to provide heating.
• Never use portable heaters indoors, unless they are designed and approved for indoor use.
• Never use a barbecue grill (propane or charcoal) indoors for heating or cooking.
Never run an internal combustion engine, such as your car, lawn mower, generator, or snow blower, in enclosed areas such as your garage.
that appliances might be operating improperly.
Indicators That Unsafe Levels of Carbon Monoxide May Be Present
Carbon monoxide detectors sound an alarm when they sense excessive levels of carbon monoxide in the air.
• Soot, especially on appliances and vents
• Unfamiliar or burning odor
• Increased moisture inside windows
Unsafe levels of carbon monoxide can be generated by appliances that are defective or improperly installed, operated, or maintained, or have air intakes blocked. Carbon monoxide can also enter a home if an appliance venting system or chimney becomes blocked (for example, by a bird’s nest).
Portable Propane
Cylinders
If You Suspect a Cylinder Leak
SIGNS OF A CYLINDER LEAK may include a propane odor, hissing gas, visible cloud of propane, or flames at the cylinder.
No smoking, vaping, or open flames.
If there are no flames or visible cloud of propane at the cylinder, close the cylinder valve (turn valve clockwise).
Leave the area, then call 911 or the fire department.
Before using the cylinder and appliance again, have a qualified professional inspect them.
Propane Cylinder Safety
KEEP AWAY FROM SOURCES OF IGNITION (such as smoking/vaping, sparks, flames) while handling or transporting cylinders.
Make sure it will not fall, shift, or roll.
• when the appliance is not in use.
• when not connected to an appliance.
Transporting Cylinders
Transport Safety
Never transport a leaking cylinder.
Do not leave cylinders in your vehicle.
Drive directly to your destination and immediately remove the cylinders from your vehicle. Do not leave cylinders inside the vehicle or trunk. The pressure relief valve (if the parked vehicle gets too hot) or a leak may release propane, filling the enclosed space with flammable gas.
Secure the Cylinders
• Tie-downs/straps
• Propane cylinder stabilizer
• Cardboard box, milk crate
• Make sure they will not shift or roll. Avoid transporting
• in passenger area. If possible, secure in:
Storing Cylinders
Storing Small Cylinders
NEVER USE OR STORE IN AN ENCLOSED AREA
such as a basement, garage, shed, or tent. Even an “empty” cylinder may contain enough propane to be hazardous.
The cylinder is designed to be kept outside in any weather, even full summer sun.
Additional heat (for example, from a heating appliance or fire) can cause pressure to build up inside the cylinder. If this happens, the pressure relief device might release propane.
Released or leaking propane can be ignited or collect in an enclosed area.
Do not put a spare propane cylinder (i.e., a cylinder that is not connected to the appliance) under or near a grill or other propane appliance.
WHY IS IT OK FOR THE CYLINDER IN USE TO BE NEAR A GRILL?
Physics! Have you ever used a can of compressed air, hairspray, or spray paint and felt the can get cold?
Similarly, propane changes from liquid to gas and expands as it leaves the cylinder. This causes the remaining propane in the tank to cool. So even as the grill heats up, the cylinder cools down.
This also means that if leaking propane comes into contact with your skin, you can get frostbite.
Testing for Propane Leaks
It is important to inspect for leaks. Do this before the first time you use the propane cylinder and appliance each season, as well as each time you connect a cylinder and appliance. This can be accomplished with a simple “bubble” test.
Apply leak detector solution or thick soapy water to the entire valve area and point of connection.
Slowly open the cylinder valve and watch for bubbles.
If bubbles appear, close the cylinder valve, tighten the connection, and repeat the process. If bubbles still appear, close the cylinder valve and call your propane retailer immediately.
Maintenance and Disposal
Do Not Repair or Modify
NEVER repair or modify propane cylinders or appliances. Exchange your cylinder or call your propane retailer or qualified professional for service.
Damaged or Unwanted Cylinders
NEVER use a damaged cylinder or one that has been in a fire.
Dispose of damaged or unwanted cylinders properly. Never throw a propane cylinder in the trash. Check to see if there are municipal programs for cylinder disposal in your area, or contact your propane retailer for guidance.
Overfill Prevention Devices (OPD) Required
Only use cylinders with an Overfill Prevention Device (OPD). An OPD is a safety feature that is required by law. Most cylinders with an OPD have a special triangular handwheel with the letters “OPD” on it.
If your cylinder does not have an OPD or you are not sure, do not use it. Take it to a propane retailer and exchange for a cylinder with an OPD, or purchase a new cylinder.
Safety Checklist
THINGS TO DO RIGHT NOW:
SHARE THIS INFORMATION WITH EVERYONE IN YOUR HOME OR BUILDING
