A propane gas grill can help create a delicious meal for your family, friends or community members. Many people enjoy grilling on the weekends or holidays, allowing them to spend time outdoors with the people they love. However, a propane leak can quickly turn an enjoyable event into trouble.
Understanding how to identify a propane tank leak, what to do if it happens and how you can prevent it will keep your family picnics or cookouts safe. Learn more about propane grill leaks below.
Is It Normal to Smell Gas While Cooking on Your Propane Grill?
Propane on its own doesn’t have a noticeable smell, but manufacturers add an artificial odor to help people identify gas leaks. If your grill is properly connected to a propane tank, it isn’t normal to smell any propane while your burner control knobs are completely in the off position, or when your grill’s controls are in the on position while completely lit.
If you smell gas, it could indicate that your gas grill has a propane leak. Propane leaks potentially can cause gas to build up in your grill when ignited could pose danger. A properly functioning grill and propane tank system drastically reduces the chance of leaks and fires.
How To Check If Your Propane Tank Is Leaking
Being proactive in detecting a potential gas leak will keep you and your family safe. Consider using the following steps to determine if your propane grill is leaking:
- Check grill hoses: Your grill hose delivers propane to your grill, allowing for a consistent flame. Grill hoses will wear down over time, and a hole can appear from regular wear and tear. A propane leak is most likely to come from your grill hose due to this damage. You can check to see if your grill hose is leaking by filling up half a bucket of water and mixing it with soap. Use an inexpensive paintbrush to coat the hose with your water and soap mixture. Turn on the gas and look for bubbles, which would indicate a gas leak. You can easily replace your hose by purchasing a new one from your local retailer.
- Check the tank and tank valve: Your tank valve allows the propane to flow and enables you to turn it on or off. Sometimes, your tank valve may erode, or there may be a manufacturing issue causing a gas leak. A visual inspection along with the soap method you used with your grill hose is the best way to check the tank’s valve and tank body for leaks. However, replacing your tank valve isn’t as easy, and you’ll likely need the help of a professional. If a leak, dent or rust is found, it is time to purchase a new tank from Foster Fuels or exchange the tank at your local supermarket.
Additional ways you can tell if you have a propane leak include:
- The sound of hissing when you turn on your propane tank.
- A distinct smell, often similar to rotten eggs.
- The declining function of your grill.
What to Do if the Propane Tank for My Grill Is Leaking?
If you’re experiencing a leaking propane tank, it’s essential to take care of it immediately. Follow these tips to ensure your safety:
- Reduce fire risk: A gas leak could quickly turn into a fire if an open flame or spark is nearby. If you suspect a gas leak or one has been confirmed, you’ll need to take the necessary steps to prevent a fire. You should also avoid using anything that could cause a spark, such as a light switch, appliances and even your cellphone. Even a tiny spark could ignite a flame or explosion.
- Turn off the tank valve: If it’s safe to do so, you should turn off the tank valve that supplies your propane. This will prevent further gas from leaking and create the potential for an even more dangerous situation.
- Evacuate the area: You should leave the site immediately after turning off your tank valve to reduce the risk of harm to yourself and your family. Don’t take the time to bring any possessions, no matter how valuable. Lingering in the area could put you in harm’s way.
- Call emergency services: Once you’re a safe distance away, you should call 911 to handle the propane leak. You should also contact your propane supplier. Both can handle propane leaks at any time of the day and have the proper tools to manage the leak.
- Avoid the area until it’s safe: You shouldn’t return to the location of the leak until the fire department has handled the leak and has determined that you can safely return. Staying away ensures that you and your family are safe and that the professionals can handle the leak safely and efficiently.
- Schedule inspections: Once you return home, avoid using your propane grill until you have your propane supplier inspect your system. They’ll ensure that the leak is fixed so you can start using your grill again. You should also schedule regular inspections and maintenance to ensure that leaks don’t occur due to normal wear and tear or corrosion.
Call Foster Fuels if You Suspect a Propane Tank Leak
Propane leaks can put you and your loved ones at risk, so it’s essential to check for leaks and have them repaired by a professional. If you think that you may have a leak in your propane tank, Foster Fuels is here to assist. We can help you determine the source of the leak and repair it, keeping you and your family safe. We also provide full service afterward to ensure that your propane tank is appropriately taken care of, preventing further leaks in the future.
Foster Fuels can also help you switch out your tank if it’s become damaged beyond use. We’ll give you peace of mind and ensure your safety when using propane tanks. Contact us today to learn more about our residential services!
