gas odor

In its natural state, propane is colorless, and odorless. To help detect leaks a pungent odorant called Ethyl Mercaptan is added to the propane. The odor is similar to the smell of rotten eggs. Not all people, however, can detect the odor. Some people's olfactory senses are simply not sensitive enough while others are temporarily blocked by illness, use of tobacco, alcohol or drugs. Cooking odors, tobacco smoke, aerosols and odor removing sprays can also cover up the odor of propane. In certain instances, the odorant in the propane may diminish or weaken making it difficult for a person with a normal sense of smell to detect a gas le

 

A leak anywhere in the propane system creates a dangerous situation that must be handled immediately. As the propane mixes with the surrounding air, it becomes highly flammable and can be set off by an open flame or spark. Propane a vapor or a liquid causes no adverse ecological effects however it displaces the oxygen in the air and, if the ratio of propane to oxygen is high enough, it can cause asphyxiation.

 

Homeowners should not rely solely on the sense of smell to detect a leak. Installation of a combustible gas alarm is highly recommended.  

 

Combustible Gas Alarm

This piece of equipment will sound a warning when it detects unburned gas in the air.  There are various models available with prices ranging from $25 to $100. Some models can be plugged into an electrical outlet to operate on the AC current with a battery backup.  Other models operate purely on battery power. For these models, the batteries should be changed annually. A gas alarm should not be confused with a carbon monoxide detector (which is also highly recommended). It should be noted that some models can detect both unburned gas and smoke.           

 

Placement of combustible gas alarms is very important. Follow the manufacturer's recommended placement for maximum protection.

 

What you should do if you smell gas or if the alarm sounds:

• Do not use the phone or turn light switches, appliances or thermostats on or off. A spark from one of these appliances could ignite the gas.
• Extinguish all smoking materials and any other open flames or sources of ignition.
• Get everyone outside and away from the building, RV or trailer.
• Shut off the gas supply at the tank.
• Call your propane supplier from a neighbor's phone. If you cannot reach your propane supplier, call the fire department.
• Stay out of the house and leave the gas off until the leak has been found and repaired by a qualified propane service technician.

 

Do not try to re-light any appliances. Leave this job to your propane supplier.  Keep your propane system in safe and efficient working condition.  Have it inspected annually by a qualified propane service technician.