A hissing propane tank is not something a home or business owner wants to discover. While it may not be anything to worry about, it could also indicate a safety hazard that calls for action.
To help you identify the cause, here are some of the reasons why a propane tank hisses.
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Table of Contents
- There’s a Leak
- The Pressure Relief Valve Is Open
- The Regulator Is Noisy
- What to Do If Your Propane Tank Is Making Noise
- We Are Here to Help
There’s a Leak
If you hear a hissing noise coming from your propane tank and smell an unpleasant odor, such as rotten eggs, there could be a leak. Propane tank leaks may occur due to a malfunctioning valve, fitting or other component, particularly if the tank has not been maintained or handled properly.
Since propane is highly flammable, it can easily ignite when exposed to flames, sparks or electrical charges. You’ll want to evacuate the area and call your propane supplier, 911 or your fire company immediately if you suspect a leak.
The Pressure Relief Valve Is Open
Propane tanks have a spring-loaded pressure relief valve designed to open and release gas if the pressure in the tank has reached a certain level. The pressure relief valve is a safety feature that prevents tanks from rupturing. A propane tank may make a hissing sound when this valve is opened.
There is no cause for concern in this case, and the valve will close again after the pressure is relieved.
The Regulator Is Noisy
The regulator controls the gas that flows from the tank to the appliance using the gas. You may notice noise from your regulator, such as humming, as it delivers gas to appliances.
A humming regulator may or may not signify a problem. As with other components, a hissing noise could indicate a leak. In any case, it’s best to get your propane tank inspected by a professional if it’s noisy.
What to Do If Your Propane Tank Is Making Noise
The first thing to do if you hear a hissing sound is remain calm — it is not common for propane tanks to rupture. That said, a leak is dangerous, so you’ll want to call a professional if you hear a hissing noise to ensure everything is intact.
We Are Here to Help
If a noisy propane tank has you worried, reach out to us at Foster Fuels, your local, family-owned fuel service provider. We’re here for you day and night to address your concerns, and if emergency services are needed, we’ll send a certified technician your way to address the issue promptly.
We offer quality propane tank inspections from trained and experienced technicians to give you peace of mind. Contact Foster Fuels today to learn more.
