What does propane smell like?
Propane in it’s natural state is odorless and tasteless. Odorant is added to propane that gives it the distinctive smell, very similar to rotten eggs or the spray of a skunk. This odorant is added so that propane is detectable in large or small quantities. Blue Ridge Propane sends out an annual mailing of brochures that have a scratch and sniff circle that smells like propane. It is good that everyone in your family knows this distinctive smell so that action can be taken.
Customers sometimes report a gas smell when using their vent free heaters or gas logs. There are several precautions that customers can take to prevent any strong odor when operating their propane units.
DO NOT USE any petroleum- based product where you are utilizing a vent free heater or vent free gas logs. The small petroleum molecules in the air get pulled into the unit, along with the oxygen. Then, as the unit is operating those small molecules get ‘burned’ in the air, causing a strong foul odor. This includes but is not limited to:
a: Painting or Staining
b: Using air fresheners, especially wall units that emit air freshener over a long period of time.
c: Scented Candels
d: Storage of household cleaners
Keep units clean and free of debris to ensure proper combustion. We recommend all vent free units be serviced on an annual basis. Do not have any other objects within 36 inches of any vent free propane unit.
Vents and Exhausts need to be clear at all times. Make sure that critters don’t get into the venting for your chimney, water heater, or any other orifice where your propane appliance “breathes”. By having a blockage at one of these outlets, it is possible for a propane smell to build up.
Follow these important steps if you smell gas:
Extinguish FLAMES or SPARKS. Immediately put out any open flames, put out smoking materials, and do not use any electronic equipment where a gas smell has been detected. This includes turning on light switches, or any other spark that can be an ignition source.
Leave the area. Get everyone out of the building where or area where gas smell has been detected.
Shut off the Propane. If it is safe to do so, turn the valve on your tank CLOCKWISE (to the right) to shut off the gas supply from the tank.
Report the Leak. After leaving the premises, contact Blue Ridge Propane at 828-733-3603 to report the smell. We always have someone on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week that can investigate.
Do Not Return to Building or Area. Until a certified technician checks the area, or emergency responder checks the area, do not reenter until you have been told it is safe to do so.
Schedule a System Check. In most cases, we will automatically perform a leak check of your system if you suspect you smell propane. This ensures that all appliances have been brought back into service in a safe manner, with no leaks.