LPG is a very convenient and widely used energy source at home, but do you know the difference between what’s normal and warning signs that demand immediate attention? Don't let uncertainty put your safety at risk!
Here are some normal and concerning signs while using LPG at home.
Normal (Usually nothing to worry about)
- Gas Smell (briefly, at ignition): When you first light your stove, a very slight gas smell might be noticeable for a second. It is unburnt gas escaped before ignition, usually harmless and disappears quickly.
- Blue Flame: A healthy LPG flame is blue, indicating the gas is burning completely and efficiently producing maximum heat.
- Soft hissing while on/off: You might hear a very quiet, quick hiss when you turn the gas knob on or off. This is normal and expected sound when there is change in pressure changes i.e. flowing or stopping from burner to appliances.
- Condensation/ frost on cylinder: When used for longer hours or with multiple burners, it is normal for the cylinder to get colder due to condensation or even light frost on the surface.
- Slight ‘pop’ while turning off the burner: This is often just the gas flow stopping and the last bit of gas in the burner igniting and then extinguishing.
Concerning Signs (Needs attention immediately)
- Continuous and strong smell: This is Ethyl Mercaptan, an odorant added to LPG to identify gas leaks. Do not ignore this.
- Loud, Continuous Hissing Sound: This sound indicates that the gas is escaping from cylinder, regulator, valve or hose. The larger the leak, the louder the hiss.
- Yellow or Orange Flame: This indicates incomplete combustion. It means the gas isn't mixing properly with air, leading to wasted gas, less heat, and most dangerously, the production of carbon monoxide.
- Soot or Black deposit: Soot formation is a sign of incomplete combustion, the unburnt carbon particles deposit on the surface of the vessels resulting in stubborn, greasy black deposit and inefficient heat transfer.
- Feeling Unwell: Headache, Dizziness, Nausea can be symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, which can happen if gas isn't burning completely.
- Pilot Light: A constantly extinguishing pilot light could indicate low gas pressure, a faulty thermocouple (safety device), any of which can be dangerous as gas could accumulate without igniting.
Additionally, look out for visible damage, cracks, or a frayed hose and regulator. These indicate they are compromised and can result in leaks, requiring immediate replacement.
What to Do if You Detect a Concerning Sign
- DO NOT panic.
- DO NOT switch on/off any electrical switches, lights, or use a mobile phone inside the house (a spark could ignite leaking gas).
- Immediately open all doors and windows to ventilate the area.
- Turn off the gas supply at the cylinder's regulator knob.
- Evacuate everyone, including pets, from the house.
Call your LPG distributor or emergency services from outside the house.
While knowing the difference between normal and concerning LPG safety signs is crucial, why not add an extra layer of protection? Consider installing an LPG leak detector in your home, it's your 24/7 safety guardian with a siren that alerts you from anywhere in the house.
Don't leave safety to chance. Check out our comprehensive safety tips and best practices to stay well-informed and keep your loved ones protected every single day.
