How to Monitor a Propane Gas Heater
One way to safely heat a home or building space is by using a propane heater. Propane heaters generally come in monitor-style heaters that are connected to a propane line or tank or come in wall-mounted units. Monitoring the exhaust of your propane heater will not only provide safety but will also maximize the amount of heat output.
Materials Needed:
- Carbon monoxide detector
- Extra batteries
- Power drill
- Thermometer
- Make sure you have a carbon monoxide detector on a wall or ceiling near your propane heater unit. Both propane and natural gas heating systems contain carbon monoxide, along with nitrogen dioxide. Carbon monoxide poisoning is very dangers and signs of it can include chest pant, headaches, drowsiness, nausea, and fatigue. Nitrogen dioxide can cause inflammation of mucous membranes and skin irritations.
- Mark the wall where the stud is located and drill the stud to mount the carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide sensors. You can also purchase a sensor that can detect levels of multiple gasses. Use a power drill to drill a hole into the wall and mount the gas detectors on the wall.
- Access how much fuel is left in the propane tank by gently shaking the tank. Propane dealers will either charge by the weight or fuel they deliver, or by the canister size that is used. Make sure the propane canister is empty so that you will not be charged the same amount as if it were empty.
- Test your system to see if it has leaks. Fill along the propane line to see you feel any leaks. You may need to get a professional assessment depending upon the type of system that you have installed. Leaks can form in the propane gas lines due to the loss of gas pressure. Periodically testing your system for leaks can help prevent the loss of propane gas.