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FAQ

I need to dig near the propane tank, what do I do?

Call 811 for a locate. Locators will do their best to locate your propane lines, but if tracer wire wasn’t installed it might be hard to get an accurate mark. You must specify that you want to add the locating of propane line at the time of your call.

What do I do if I smell propane?
  • No flames or sparks! Immediately put out all smoking materials and other open flames. Do not operate lights, appliances, telephones, or cell phones. Flames or sparks from these sources can trigger an explosion or a fire.
  • Leave the area immediately! Get everyone out of the building or area where you suspect gas is leaking.
  • Shut off the gas. Turn off the main gas supply valve on your propane tank if it is safe to do so. To close the valve, turn it to the right (clockwise).
  • Report the leak. From a neighbor’s home or other nearby building away from the gas leak, call your propane retailer right away. If you can’t reach your propane retailer, call 911 or your local fire department.
  • Do not return to the building or area. Until your propane retailer, emergency responder, or qualified service technician determines that it is safe to do so.
  • Get your system checked. Before you attempt to use any of your propane appliances, your propane retailer or a qualified service technician must check your entire system to ensure that it is leak free.
What does propane smell like?

Propane smells like rotten eggs, a skunk’s spray, or a dead animal. Some people may have difficulty smelling propane due to their age (older people may have a less sensitive sense of smell); a medical condition; or the effects of medication, alcohol, tobacco, or drugs.

Odor Loss

On rare occasions, propane can lose its odor. Several things can cause this including:

  • The presence of air, water, or rust in a propane tank or cylinder
  • The passage of leaking propane through the soil

Note: Since there is a possibility of odor loss or problems with your sense of smell, you should respond immediately to even a faint odor of gas.

What is propane?

Propane, sometimes know as liquefied petroleum gas or LPG is a gas normally compressed and stored as a liquid. It is non-toxic, colorless, and odorless but an odorant is added. It is commonly used for heat and water heating, cooking, and as a fuel for generators and forklifts.