Is It Normal To Smell Propane At The Tank? (Find Out Now!)

You’re probably familiar with propane’s distinct smell. What you may not know is whether or not the smell of propane is always cause for alarm. Does the smell of propane at the tank mean there’s definitely a leak?

The smell of propane can be the first sign of a leak, but that isn’t always the case. You might notice a stronger propane smell when the tank is running low due to a buildup of mercaptan oil. This oil gives propane its distinctive odor, and since it’s heavier than liquid propane, it sinks to the bottom.

This isn’t necessarily something to be concerned about, but it’s a sign that you need to refill your propane tank. In this article, we’ll cover the reasons you might smell propane at the tank. We’ll also discuss what you should do if you suspect a leak.

Propane tanks are specifically designed and engineered to store propane, even at high pressure. They are available in various sizes. The most common is a 20-pound tank, often called a grill cylinder.

You’ll also commonly see 30-pound tanks as they’re often used for RVs. Larger tanks come in sizes of 100 gallons, 250 gallons, 500 gallons, and 1000 gallons. Larger propane tanks, especially 500-gallon and 1000-gallon tanks, are often buried underground where they’re insulated by soil and safer overall.

In general, propane tanks are installed and then filled on-site. With smaller tanks, you can often fill them at various locations like hardware stores.

A gas smell around your propane tank does not always indicate that there’s a leak. When the tank is running low on propane, you might smell more of the mercaptan oil than usual.

The reason for this is that mercaptan oil is heavier than liquid propane. Therefore, it sinks to the bottom of the propane tank and can build up over time. When your tank is running low on propane, there’s a higher concentration of mercaptan oil.

Be sure to get your propane tank refilled regularly! It can be dangerous to let it run empty. Leaks and other issues can occur if you try to use an empty propane tank.

You might also smell the propane or mercaptan odor after lighting a gas stove. This odor might linger for a bit and is normal. The smell could also result from the pilot light going out in a gas fireplace, water heater, or other appliance.

If you smell propane and suspect a leak, it’s best to act quickly. First, if the smell is strong, get everyone out of your home. Next, call both the fire department and your propane provider. Turn off the gas if possible.

You’ll also want to turn off lights, appliances, electronics, and anything that can create a spark. Avoid igniting flames.

You should take every potential leak seriously. However, this is especially imperative for an intense smell that won’t go away and is accompanied by a hissing noise.

Note that serious propane leaks are very rare. They usually only happen in cases of long-term neglect of your propane tank. Regular maintenance from a professional is the best way to avoid serious leaks.

Generally, the first indicator that your propane tank is leaking is the smell. Propane is naturally an odorless gas, but mercaptan oil is added to give it a distinctive smell. It’s often compared to rotten eggs, sulfur, and sewage.

Another sign that your propane tank is leaking is a hissing sound. This is the sound of propane leaving the tank. You might see liquid leaking from the tank as well.

A combustible gas detector is a great choice for identifying propane leaks. This is especially true if people in your home struggle to smell propane. Another reason to consider a combustible gas detector is if your propane tank is located in a rarely-visited area.

Combustible gas detectors work by sounding an alarm when toxic, flammable, combustible gas is in the air. They also respond to a depletion of oxygen.

These detectors use multiple sensors to detect leaks. The sensors include electrochemical gas sensors, ultrasonic sensors, infrared point sensors, and semiconductor sensors.

Related Questions

Does propane smell like sewage?

Propane itself doesn’t have a smell. However, utility companies add mercaptan oil to give this odorless gas a noticeable smell for safety purposes. This additive creates an odor that most people compare to rotten eggs, sulfur, or sewage.

Is smelling propane gas harmful?

While propane gas isn’t toxic, it can still be harmful. This is because it’s an asphyxiating gas. This type of gas displaces the oxygen in your lungs.

If you’re exposed to high concentrations of propane, then it can make it hard to breathe. If you’ve inhaled a large amount of propane, call 911 immediately.

Does propane smell when burned?

Propane does not usually smell when it is burned. It’s a clean-burning fuel, so you shouldn’t smell anything from the flame. If you notice a smell, turn off the flame and have your propane provider check things out.