Check for Leaks Regularly

There are a number of scenarios for which it is prudent to check for propane leaks. Here are the most common ones:

• Check for leaks any time you change the cylinder.
• Check for leaks when you are about to use an appliance after an extended period.
• Check for leaks after you’ve moved appliances. 
• Check for leaks after you’ve run out of propane before you turn appliances back on.

Here are the steps to follow to check for leaks using a commercial leak detector solution or a mixture of 50% liquid soap and 50% water:

1. Shut off the service valve supplying propane to the system.
2. Make sure all appliance valves are shut off and there are no open lines.
3. Turn on the container service valve only.
4. Brush the leak detector solution onto all connections and valves.
   • If rising bubbles appear, this indicates that you have a leak.
   • Close the service valve, tighten the leaking connection, and test again.
   • If bubbles continue, shut off the service valve and contact a qualified service technician.

If pilot lights are involved, after you’re sure the system is leak-free and the controls are operating properly, the pilots can be relit following manufacturer’s instructions.

See also Don't Take Chances With Your Pilot Light.

Treat Leaks and Suspected Leaks Seriously

Smell gas… act fast! Treat all propane gas odours seriously.

• Extinguish all smoking materials and open flames.
• Do not touch electrical switches, appliances, lights, flashlights, phones or cell phones.
• Do not light matches or create any other source of ignition.
• Open all doors and windows and let fresh air blow away the escaped gas.
• Close all cylinder or tank supply valves. Turn off all gas appliances. See also Know How to Shut Off Your Propane Supply.
• Get everyone out of the building or vehicle immediately. Move upwind, away from the smell.
• Go to a nearby phone and call your propane supplier, 911 or your fire department emergency number.
• Do not re-enter the area until it has been checked by a qualified service technician or emergency responder.
• After the area has been deemed safe, a qualified service technician must repair the leak, turn on the propane, check all the propane appliances and re-light the pilots on the appliances.
• If your propane-fuelled vehicle is involved in a collision or other accident, shut the gas supply off at the container and have the system checked by a qualified service technician.

Get Regular Inspections

Have a qualified service technician inspect, service and test your fuel-burning appliances and controls annually and anytime they are moved to a new location. This includes venting systems, burner systems, tank, piping, regulators, connectors, valves, thermostats, pilots, and combustion and ventilation air openings.

Here are suggestions about good opportunities for an inspection:

• Have the burner and flue of your propane refrigerator inspected and cleaned at the same time your heating appliances are inspected, and each time it’s moved or turned off for an extended period.
• Have a qualified service technician check your propane space heaters, gas log and fireplace systems each fall, clean the control compartments and burners, and make sure all components are operating properly.
• Have your fuel burning appliances in your R.V. or camper checked in the spring when you take your R.V. or camper out of storage.
• If your appliances are over 20 years old, make sure the flexible connectors are inspected regularly.
• During extended absences from your home, R.V. or camper, close all propane supply valves on the supply container and at each appliance. Upon your return, have a qualified service technician test for leaks before the propane is turned on. Also have the technician re-light the pilot lights.

Inspections not only reduce the risk of leaks or malfunctions, but they also reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning from incomplete combustion and plugged or improperly vented appliances. See also Carbon Monoxide.