Propane is one of the safest, cleanest, and easiest ways to heat your home. Often times, a leak test will be done to your propane system to ensure it is working properly, efficiently and safely. In this post, we will explain what a leak test is, why your system might need one, the costs of having a leak test done, and how to schedule one.
What is a Leak Test?
The purpose of a leak test is to verify the gas-tight integrity of gas piping following an installation or modification. There are different methods and reasons as to why your system may need one. A leak test is often required by code in certain circumstances.
Leak tests are required any time there is an interruption of service for any reason. NFPA 54 (2006), 8.2.3 states that “Immediately after the gas is turned on into a new system or into a system that has been initially restored after an interruption of service, the piping system shall be tested for leakage. If leakage is indicated, the gas supply shall be shut off until the necessary repairs have been made”.
During this test, the propane system is checked for leakage and pressure. Normally, connections and fittings are threaded so that they may easily connect during installation or modification. The connections are coated with a pipe joint compound. Normally, a propane system is under constant pressure when working correctly. The pipe joint compound will expand and will retract if the system loses pressure. This gas loss may cause leaks in the system to occur because of the expansion and retraction of the piping compound.
The following measurements will be taken during a leak test:
- Starting pressure in pounds per square inch or water column
- Ending pressure in pounds per square inch or water column
- Start time
- End time
Why Do I Need a Leak Test?
There are varying reasons as to why a leak test may be done to your system. However, a leak test will always be done on a new system installation. Here are the reasons a leak test may be required:
- New service
- Interruption of services
- The system runs out of propane
- Swapping out a propane tank
- Turning the gas supply off to the tank
- New homeowner has moved in
- Unlocking a propane tank
- Replacing a regulator on a tank
- And more
In some cases, a customer can request to have a leak test performed. These reasons could vary, but most likely those reasons would be:
- Customer is concerned with an odor coming from the system
- Customer is concerned that there may be a leak in the system
Does it Cost Anything to Have a Leak Test Done?
There are costs and fees associated with leak tests. This is because it requires labor, parts, measurements, and sometimes there are emergency fees depending on the circumstance. To figure out the exact cost of a leak test, give our team a call!
How Do I Schedule a Leak Test?
Scheduling a leak test is easy! Just call our Foster Fuels team at 800-344-6457. We will help you figure out if your system needs a pressure test and have one scheduled as necessary.
If you think your system needs a leak test, feel free to give us a call! We will help you figure out what is best and most efficient for your system.
Resources:
- Propane Education & Research Council (2016). Gas Check Training Package. https://propane.com/resource-catalog/resources/gas-check-inspection-handbook/
- Propane 101. Propane Leak Tests. https://www.propane101.com/leaktest.htm
Common Propane Tank Leak FAQs
How To Test You Propane Tank For Leaks?
Propane leaks can be dangerous. If you suspect your propane tank is leaking, you should shut off the valve and immediately call your propane service provider to check your tank. If the leak is in your home, evacuate your house until your tank is able to be inspected by a professional technician.
How To Tell If My Propane Tank Is Leaking?
Propane gas is naturally odorless but contains a chemical additive that smells like rotten eggs. If you smell a strong smell from your propane tank that is stronger than the usual slight smell produced from burning propane you should contact your fuel provider.
Do propane tanks leak over time?
Propane tanks should never leak. A propane leak can cause your propane tank to run out of fuel which can cause a variety of other issues. If your propane tank runs out of fuel, contact a propane tank technician to inspect your tank for any leaks or tank issues.
