Is propane heating safe for your home?

There are numerous advantages to using propane heating in a home. Many people rely on this fuel, whether to heat their cabin or to fuel their barbecue, fireplace or patio heater.

But is propane heating really safe? As a rule, propane is a sure thing. However, when used incorrectly, it can entail certain risks, including fires, explosions, injuries and poisoning.

Here are some basic rules you should observe to prevent accidents and enjoy the benefits of propane safely and securely.

Best practices in propane heating

As long as you follow established safety guidelines, propane will prove to be both safe and practical. One piece of advice before you purchase a new appliance or other equipment that uses propane: make sure that it’s certified by a competent authority, such as the Canadian Gas Association (CGA), Canadian Standards Association (CSA), Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC), Quebec Building Authority (RBQ), cOTL, WH, cETL or cUL. With qualified equipment, you’re always off to a good start!

Now, here are a few basic guidelines for using propane safely:

  • Read the instruction manual carefully before using your equipment.
  • Make sure your equipment is on a solid foundation.
  • Never leave equipment unattended when it’s in use.
  • Ensure adequate ventilation in the area where the equipment is installed.
  • Make sure that all air inlets and outlets are unobstructed and vented to the outside of the building.
  • Inspect the flame produced by the burning propane to verify that it’s pure blue. If it’s yellow or overly bright, the burner may be dirty or out of adjustment.
  • Never attempt to make any repairs or modifications on your own. You should always turn to a qualified professional to service the equipment safely and securely.
  • Close the valve on the propane tank tightly after each use of your outdoor propane equipment.
propane heating

What are the rules regarding storage?

You should always leave your propane tanks outdoors. Best practices recommend storing them securely in an upright position. You should also protect your propane equipment from impacts and direct sunlight (or any other source of heat, flames or sparks) and, most importantly, keep it out of reach of children.

Outdoor shelters such as gazebos or any other roofed structure with at least two sides enclosed will not provide adequate aeration. Therefore, they are not suitable storage spaces for equipment that uses propane!

What to do if there’s a leak in your propane heating

Propane, which is odorless, usually has an additive that gives it an odor of rotten eggs or boiled cabbage to make it easier to detect a leak. If you smell this odor near your equipment, there’s no reason to panic. It could simply mean that the tank is empty.

If there really is a leak, follow the steps below to address the problem safely:

  • Close the propane supply valve
  • Remove any possible sources of heat or sparks, such as cigarettes, candles, flashlights and cellphones, to a safe distance
  • Ventilate the area and leave
  • Contact a qualified professional for assistance

Your leaders in propane heating in the Greater Montreal Metropolitan Area and the Laurentians

You can count on Pétrole & Propane Bélanger for all your propane and fuel oil delivery needs. Get the best advice to ensure that you use your propane equipment safely and securely in your home or business.

We also offer 24/7 service in the event of an emergency. Contact us for more information!