If any of the appliances in your home use natural gas, it's important to understand the dangers of a potential gas leak. Propane is a flammable gas, so not maintaining these appliances could lead to a potential fire. Take a look at the causes and signs of a propane leak, how to prevent them, and what to do if there’s a leak in your home.

What You Should Know About Propane Leaks

What causes a propane leak?

A propane leak is typically due to a malfunctioning appliance. Alternatively, there may be a broken or damaged pipe or line that connects the appliance to the fuel source. 

What are signs of a propane leak?

If you’ve ever smelled gas before, you know it has a noticeable odor. This scent is added to the gas to make it easier to detect leaks. If you smell gas, make sure to take your family and pets and leave the house immediately until the leak is fixed. 

In addition to the smell of gas, you may notice the houseplants or bushes around the house look unhealthy. Leaking propane can also irritate your skin, and you may feel ill. Similar to carbon monoxide poisoning, you'll feel dizzy and lethargic. 

What should I do if I detect a leak?

If you think there might be a propane leak in your home, this is a fire hazard. If you know how to turn off the gas on the appliance, do so, and then take your family members and pets out of the house. If you can't get a repair technician to come out immediately, call your local fire department or utility company. They can shut off the propane and temporarily patch the leak until a professional can provide a permanent solution. 

How can I prevent leaks?

The best way to prevent leaks is to have regular maintenance and service for your appliances that use propane. Also, make sure you have carbon monoxide detectors in your home on every floor of the house. 

If you are looking for propane gas sales or equipment, reach out to Tri-County Propane in Loveland, OH. With customer satisfaction as their top priority, this team has years of experience dealing with propane parts and other gas services. Whether you need equipment or emergency services, you can count on them for reliable propane delivery and repair. Call (513) 583-1868 to speak with a team member, or visit them online to learn more about their services.