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Consumer Questions & Answers About Propane

July 20, 2016

Consumer Questions & Answers About PropaneWe get calls all the time from our Dallas clients with similar questions about propane. So, Northwest Propane Gas Company decided to put together this article on some common consumer questions and answers about propane.

What Can I Expect? I’ve Never Used Propane Before.

In truth, it’s similar to natural gas or electric power with one significant difference. Propane power is delivered to your Dallas home by a person in a tank truck.

  • If you rent the home, contact your landlord for information about the propane company servicing the tank.
  • If you bought the home, contact the propane company servicing the tank.
  • When the gas delivery is made, have the driver show you what propane smells like.
  • Know what propane smells like. It will help you know if there is ever a leak in your system that needs to be addressed.

Why Do I Have to Have a Leak Test?

Leak tests are required any time there is an interruption of service (meaning the flow of gas was stopped for any reason). NFPA 54 (2006), 8.2.3 states that “Immediately after the gas is turned on into a new system or into a system that has been initially restored after an interruption of service, the piping system shall be tested for leakage. If leakage is indicated, the gas supply shall be shut off until the necessary repairs have been made”.

How Do I Check For Propane Leaks?

Homemade propane leak detector solution can be placed in a spray bottle or other container. Liquid dishwashing soap will produce the most bubbles when mixed with water and is what’s most commonly used. If a spray bottle is used, adjust the tip of the sprayer so that a sharp stream is produced by squeezing the bottle’s trigger. The sharp stream will provide enough of the soapy mixture to produce bubbles if there is, in fact, a leak as well as reaching into any recessed connections that are not easily reached. Leaks are common on older Dallas tanks and installations, so do not be alarmed if you find a leak.

Call Northwest Propane Gas Company Today

If you have more questions about propane in your Dallas home, call us at 972-247-6121.