In contrast to electric heat pumps, propane gas is a reputable solution to heating homes. As the cooler months roll in, people will use propane-fueled options to keep warm.
But as much as propane heat is a great solution, it can be a danger if not used in an appropriate manner.
More than 14 million residents use propane heat in their home. Because of misuse, many people cause house fires and injury to themselves. Still, propane has a reliable rep, making it safer than lightning strikes and bee stings.
If you’re looking to break out some propane heat for the upcoming cooler months, read this. Here are a few safety tips you should keep in mind when you do.
1. Always Read the Owner’s Manual When Handling Propane Heat
Riding a bike is nothing similar to handling gas. If you’ve never used it before, don’t assume it’s as easy as striking a match.
Manufacturers have your safety in mind when they provide manuals for propane products. The manual details how to use propane as well as risk steps to take in the event of a leak.
It also advises on how to avoid a hazardous situation with the product. So don’t put it off as another boring piece of literature. Proper education on how to handle propane beforehand is key.
Read this article to find out more about how propane heat works.
2. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Propane is a colorless, odorless gas. For this reason, you need to install the right equipment in your home or space to detect leaks.
Most modernized homes have smoke detectors. But if propane is a primary staple, carbon monoxide detection is important as well. Coupled with an action plan, families can avoid accident and injury if a leak gets detected first.
3. Storage Location
Propane is a flammable gas, so be mindful about how and where you store it. The right location lends to safety.
Never store a propane tank in a garage, shed, or living space. Leaks in these areas are a set up for a dangerous situation. Make sure you keep them away from heated sources likes open grills and bonfires.
Propane needs room to breathe. So store your tank on an open, ventilated, and flat surface.
4. Service Your Tank
Don’t just buy a propane tank and forget it. Like any other fuel storage source, it needs servicing once in a while.
Contact a professional and have them give your tank a periodic once over to make sure it’s safe to keep. They’ll also provide up-to-date safety instructions as well.
5. Stay Fueled
Never allow your tank to run out of gas. An empty propane tank is a potential emergency waiting to happen.
Empty tanks leave room for air and moisture which leads to build-up inside the tank. Rust weakens the concentration of propane, making carbon dioxide hard to detect in a leak.
Run a tab on your fill-ups. Make sure you keep your propane delivery on a regular schedule.
Go Propane
Propane heat is a safe choice for the environment. And for homeowner’s, it acts as a high-energy, versatile solution over traditional heating.
Look deeper into the benefits, but be safe with your propane choice. Keep your family warm but out of harm’s way.
Need more lifestyle solutions? Check out our guide and find out more healthy options for living.
