4 Warning Signs of Trouble with Your Propane Tank

Does your home run on propane? If you have propane heat or use propane for any other appliances in your home, you have a tank on your property somewhere. Some tanks are above ground and others are buried. Most of the time propane tanks don’t require much maintenance other than periodic refills. However, if there is a problem with your propane tank, you’ll most likely notice one or more of these 4 signs. If you notice any of the following, contact your propane supplier right away. 

You smell propane gas

The smell of propane is often described as rotten eggs or a decaying animal. It’s not a pleasant smell, and it is added to propane to make it detectable by people. If you smell gas, get yourself and everyone out of the home, including pets, and call your propane supplier from a safe distance. If you cannot get your propane supplier on the phone, call 911. Do not return to the home unless a professional informs you that it is safe to do so. A propane leak is rare but can be very serious. 

The pilot light on your furnace won’t stay lit

If it seems that your pilot light is always going out, especially if it happens with multiple appliances in your home – you most likely have a problem with your propane tank. If there’s a leak, an automatic safety feature will cut off the gas supply. There could also be a problem with the gas line, such as a blockage. Contact your propane supplier if your pilot lights keep going out. 

The burner flames are any color but blue

The proper color of a burning propane flame should be blue. If your stove burners or pilot light flames are yellow or orange, it may indicate a problem with your tank. If the flames on multiple appliances are the wrong color, you’ll know it’s not the appliance itself that is having a problem, but that there is a problem with the propane supply to your home. 

Your tank is rusty

Is there extensive rust on your propane tank? A little rust in a few places may not be any cause for alarm, but large patches of rust, especially if they appear to go deep or it looks as if the tank is dented in at the rust spot, is a sign that a new tank may be in order. Rust can become deep and go all the way through to the interior of the tank. Leaks can happen and moisture can get into the tank, which can cause all sorts of problems. 

Having Problems with your Propane Tank?

If you notice these or any other unusual signs from your propane tank, call your propane supplier immediately. Berico is a leading supplier of propane in Greensboro and the surrounding area. Berico can help even if your tank belongs to another company. The tank swap out process is free and easy for new customers. 

Call Berico today at (336) 273-8663 to speak with a knowledgeable representative about any problems with your propane tank.