What Does a Propane Gas Leak Smell Like?

Written on: June 19, 2023

Know how to keep your home and loved ones safe with this information

Due to the strict regulations imposed by the government and the commitment of companies like Kimlin Energy, propane maintains an excellent safety record.

It’s important to know how to use propane safely at home, including what to do in the event of a leak, even though leaks are rare. We’ve provided some common topics to help you better understand propane safety.

Preventing propane leaks

Regularly scheduling maintenance with a professional service technician for all your propane appliances is vital in order to prevent propane leaks. During a tune-up, a propane service technician will conduct an extensive examination of your appliances and address any gas leak problems found.

It is advisable to increase your home’s safety by purchasing propane leak detectors and positioning them near your propane appliances such as stoves, fireplaces, and water heaters. Bear in mind that you should place the detectors at a lower level than the pillows on your bed since propane gas is denser than air.

It’s important to install both carbon monoxide detectors and propane leak detectors in your home as they cannot detect each other. Carbon monoxide detectors can’t detect propane leaks while propane leak detectors can’t detect carbon monoxide leaks.

What propane gas smells like

When it comes to propane safety, this is the most important thing you should learn.

Propane doesn’t have a natural smell. To make it easier for people to detect leaks quickly, manufacturers add an odorant such as ethyl mercaptan, which creates a noticeable smell.

If you notice pungent smell reminiscent of the scent of rotten eggs or a skunk’s spray in your home, it is highly probable that this is due to a propane gas leak.

What to do if you smell gas

To remain calm during an emergency, it’s important to follow these safety guidelines provided below and avoid panicking. Do not attempt to locate the source of the smell by yourself; let the professionals handle the situation. Instead, prioritize your safety and that of others.

Let’s go over the steps you should take if you smell a distinct rotten-egg/skunky odor that indicates a propane leak.

Evacuate the house immediately and make sure to bring your pets along with you.

• Before leaving, be sure to extinguish any potential sources of fire such as candles or cigarettes.

Please refrain from using any objects that may produce sparks, such as light switches, telephones, or vape pens, when exiting the house.

• To ensure safety, make sure that you turn off the propane supply valve of your propane tank if you can reach it. It is advisable that all adults in your household know how to do it. If someone is not familiar with the process, please reach out to us and we will gladly teach you.
• Once you have gotten away from the house safely, call 911 immediately and then contact Kimlin Energy.
• For your safety, please keep a safe distance and wait until the first responders and service technicians have found and fixed the leak. Only return to your residence after they confirm it is safe to do so.

If you have any questions about the safe use of propane in your home, please contact Kimlin Energy and we’ll be happy to help.