What Does a Propane Gas Leak Smell Like?

Written on: June 5, 2023

Important Safety Information

Do you know what propane smells like? By itself, nothing. Fortunately, propane producers make propane possible to detect with your nose by adding a strong, rotten egg smell to propane. Without this odorant, propane would be odorless.

It’s important that everyone in your family knows what a propane gas leak smells like and knows what to do in the event of a leak. This is an important part of propane safety, and safety is a priority at Downey Energy.

However, you shouldn’t rely solely on your sense of smell to detect a propane gas leak. If there’s corrosion inside your propane tank, it can absorb a good amount of the odorant. And what if you’ve got a stuffy nose? By installing propane gas detectors in your home, you can give yourself peace of mind that in the rare event of a propane leak, you and your family will be alerted.

If You Have a Propane Gas Leak…

Make sure everyone in your household knows what to do if there’s a suspected propane leak. If you suspect a propane leak, follow these steps:

1. Immediately extinguish any open flames.
2. Don’t operate any appliances or accessories that can create a spark. That includes lights, telephones, and cell phones.
3. Shut the valve on your propane gas tank to cut supply off at the source.
4. Leave your home immediately. Make sure all pets are brought out of the house as well.
5. As you leave the building, be careful not to touch any electrical outlets or light switches.
6. Call 911 once you’ve reached a safe distance.
7. Once the authorities clear you to return to your home, have your appliances professionally inspected by a professional before you attempt to use them again.

Safe Cylinder Handling & Transporting

In addition to your home’s propane tank, chances are you also use propane cylinders for things like your BBQ grill. This grilling season, make safety a priority in your backyard. To prevent any damage to those propane cylinders and avoid any accidents, follow these safety guidelines:

• Always keep your cylinder in a secure upright position. It should never be able to tip over or roll.
• Don’t leave your cylinder in a hot vehicle for an extended period of time.
• Only connect a cylinder to an appliance that is turned off.
• Every time you connect a cylinder to your grill (or any other appliance), check for leaks.
• Be sure to follow all manufacturer’s instructors when connecting your cylinder to your grill or other propane appliances.
• Store extra cylinders outside and away from your home. Keep them away from areas that could reach over 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

Downey Energy is there for our Hudson Valley customers in New York’s Dutchess County, Orange County, Putnam County, and Northern Westchester County.

Contact Downey Energy today to learn more about the propane delivery and propane tank services we provide.