Propane is a great solution for homes. It’s economical and a clean energy source that’s perfect for residential use in Austin. As long as you follow a few simple rules, propane is an economically friendly and safe alternative to electricity. Below are four tips you can follow to keep your home safe when you’re using propane.

Keep the Tank Clear of Clutter

Make sure to keep clutter away from your tank, especially flammable materials that could catch fire. It’s also smart to keep things clear from propane appliances in your home. For example, keep old newspapers and other flammable materials far away from the heating system or propane water heater. That will help minimize the chances of a fire.

Keep an eye on the pilot light. Your propane home or water heating system might have a pilot light. It’s a small flame that burns constantly. The pilot light should stay lit continuously. Although re-igniting the pilot light seems easy enough… it could indicate a problem. You may want to call in a professional to take a look at it. A pilot light that regularly goes out could be a sign of a potential problem. Although not common, there’s always the small risk of a fire or explosion if your propane heating system isn’t operating correctly.

Install Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Texas law requires carbon monoxide detectors in homes that use fossil fuels (such as propane). Since carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas, you need to have an alarm that lets you know when dangerous levels are reached. Make a plan of action with the family in case a detector goes off. And don’t forget to check the batteries periodically to make sure they’re still good.

When there’s a propane leak, on the other hand you’ll be able to smell it. Many say it smells like rotten eggs. Propane doesn’t have a natural odor, this is added to the gas by manufacturers for safety reasons. If you smell propane or think you smell it, extinguish any flames (like the burner on your stove) and put away your electronic devices. Then leave the home and call emergency services.

Establish a Regular Delivery and Service Schedule

Set up a regular delivery schedule with Oliver Propane to make sure you always have enough propane to cook and heat your home. Periodically check your tank’s fuel gauge. If your tank has less than 20% left, give us a call for a refill. And make sure to ask us about our free smart meter.

Keeping your propane tank filled to the right levels is important to prevent leaks. You can protect your propane tank and prolong its life by keeping it filled. Regular inspections and maintenance on your propane tank are critical. A qualified service technician can check or run a leak test to make sure your tank is in good working order.

Oliver Propane can help with tank inspection and let you know if it needs maintenance or it’s time for a new one.

Check on Your Propane Tank Periodically

If you’re moving in to a new home or your tank is older, you’ll want to get a safety inspection. It may need to be recertified, or may be past it’s lifetime and it’s time to swap it out for a new one. Always call in a professional to take a look and perform any needed repairs. Regular inspections and maintenance on your propane tank are critical.

While Austin is not directly in the path or hurricanes or tornadoes, we can get some smaller storms here and there. After a storm, take a look at your tank and remove any debris from around it. Keep things away from all vents and valves.

Why choose Oliver Propane?

Here at Oliver Propane we love working with homeowners who enjoy the many benefits of living in a propane-powered home. If you’re buying a new home, replacing an older tank, or just need some advice… Oliver Propane is here to help. Our friendly staff will be more than happy to provide the expertise and experience needed to help you. Give us a call at 512-913-7695 to learn more about pricing in the Austin, Texas area.