Propane Safety

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September 01, 2003

Propane Gas Safety Tips
 
by Bob (Ram) Muessig

 
Propane gas is one of the safest and most reliable fuels available on the market today and can be handled quite safely. We want you to know how.  While propane has great "explosive potential", the dangers may be minimized by following a few simple precautions.

We encourage you and your traveling companions to learn how to properly operate propane gas appliances and to become familiar with safety precautions. It also is important that you operate and maintain your propane gas equipment in accordance with the manufacturers' instructions.

 

What is a GAS Check?  

Gas Appliance System Check is a special service program offered propane users in association with the National Propane Gas Association. Its aim is to let you enjoy the convenience of propane with safety and peace of mind.

 

A GAS Check technician makes a complete inspection of your propane system and appliances from tank to burner tip. It takes only 30-60 minutes and will assure you that all your appliances and your entire system is operating properly.  Most reputable RV service centers have a “Propane Certified” technician available.

  Why You Need a GAS Check 

Chances are you use propane because your RV came equipped with it, not just because you like its convenience and efficiency. Nevertheless, you should know that with those benefits comes a responsibility to make sure that you get that extra measure of safety with a GAS Check.

 

Maintenance and Safety Tips for Your Propane Dryer

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Follow manufacturer's installation and operating instructions.

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Be sure that your dryer’s vent is unobstructed.

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Clean lint screen after each use.

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Clean exhaust duct periodically.

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Check outside vent periodically and make sure it opens and closes freely.

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Never run your dryer when not at home.
 

Maintenance and Safety Tips for Your Propane Furnace

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Follow manufacturer's installation and operating instructions.

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Have your furnace and venting inspected annually by your authorized heating dealer.

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Change your furnace filters regularly.

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Before firing up and using your propane gas furnace for the first time each season, be sure to have your venting system checked.  Insects may have built nests which obstruct flow.

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At the first indication of incomplete combustion (yellow flame instead of blue, or soot present), contact a service technician immediately.  Improper combustion can cause carbon monoxide buildup, which is potentially fatal!
 

Maintenance and Safety Tips for Your Propane Range

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Follow manufacturer's installation and operating instructions.

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Burner flame should be a blue color, indicating complete combustion. If not, have your unit serviced by a qualified technician.

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Do not cover oven bottom with foil - it can restrict air circulation.

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Never use gas ranges or ovens for heating purposes.

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Always keep pot handles turned inward.

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Be sure children understand never to turn knobs on the front of your propane gas range.
 

Maintenance and Safety Tips for Your Propane Grill

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Follow manufacturer's installation, maintenance and operating instructions.

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Clean the grate and grill regularly.

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Keep grill lid open when lighting.

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Change lava rocks periodically as recommended by the manufacturer.
 

Maintenance and Safety Tips for Your Propane Space Heater

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Follow the manufacturer's installation and operating instructions.

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Ignite match or lighter and hold over burner before turning on gas.

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As with furnaces and water heaters, at the first indication of incomplete combustion (yellow flame instead of blue, or soot present), call a service technician immediately, for improper combustion may cause carbon monoxide buildup, a toxic, colorless, odorless gas, which is potentially fatal!
 

Maintenance and Safety Tips for Your Propane Water Heater

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Buy a unit equipped with a temperature and pressure relief valve.

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Maintain setting at no more than 120 degrees Fahrenheit to reduce the chance of hot water scalding.

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Keep flammable substances away from the water heater and do not store things close to it.  This practice may block the air-flow which the heater needs to operate correctly.

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At the first indication of incomplete combustion (yellow flame instead of blue, or soot present), call a service technician immediately. Improper combustion can cause carbon monoxide buildup which is potentially fatal!
 

Maintenance and Safety Tips for Your Propane Lanterns

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Follow all manufacturer's installation and operating instructions.

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Clean glass as needed with a soft cloth and soapy water.

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Replace worn or broken mantles as needed. 

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