Cold Weather Propane Safety Tips for Your Connecticut Home

Propane is one of the best ways to keep you warm and safe when temperatures drop here in CT – but as with any fuel, you have to know what to do if the unexpected happens.

Here are four key propane safety tips for the late fall and winter:

1. Learn how to shut the valve on your main propane gas tank, and teach every adult in the house how to do it. If you’re not sure how to do that, contact us.
2. Learn how to identify a propane leak – which smells like rotten eggs – and what to do if you discover one.
3. Install carbon monoxide (CO) detectors on every level of your home, following manufacturer’s instructions for placement and maintenance. Replace batteries at least once a year, and replace the unit itself every five years. We also strongly recommend installing propane leak detectors to protect against odor loss in the event of a propane leak.
4. If severe winter weather is forecast:
   • Check your propane tank levels, making sure you have enough gas to last at least a week in case of road closures;
   • Always follow the instructions of local authorities;
   • Clear snow and debris from vents, chimneys, and flues after a storm to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
   • If you suspect that any of your propane equipment has been damaged or is not working properly, contact us right away. Remember: if you shut down your gas supply for any reason, the law requires you to hire a licensed professional to restart you system!

Stay safe this winter – contact Hocon Gas today if you have any questions about propane safety in your home!