How to Fix Propane Furnace Leaks
Propane, also known as Liquefied Petroleum Gas or LPG, is a highly flammable fuel commonly used for cooking and heating in the home. Because of its flammability, it is very dangerous to have a propane leak in the home. Promptly finding and fixing any propane leaks is important.
- Shut off the power. To fix any fuel leak the power needs to be turned off first. Turn off the furnace and then unplug it also to ensure maximum safety. The furnace must be free of power so no sparks can be made that may cause an explosion.
- Find the leak. You can find the leak by listening for a hiss in the fuel line. The hiss is caused by the escaping propane gas. It makes a hiss because of the high pressure it is under in the fuel line. If you can't hear a hiss, then you can use scent to find the leak. Wherever you smell propane the strongest is where the leak should be.
- Close the main valve. Ensure that the main gas line valve is closed. This is important to prevent more propane from leaking into your home. The main gas valve must be open to complete step two, because once the valve is turned off the propane will not be coming out the leak so it won't be detectable.
- Call a repair technician. Propane fuel leaks are dangerous and need to be repaired by a certified technician. Completing repairs yourself can lead to injury. When the repair technician arrives you can show him or her the location of the leak and allow him or her to fix the leak.