Residential propane tanks are sturdy pieces of gear, made from rugged alloy and carbon steel and built to the exacting standards of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME).
But that doesn’t mean they can’t have problems.
In fact, propane tanks are subject to wear and tear just like any other mechanical device – and considering what they’re built to contain, it’s extremely important to have them periodically checked by a professional to make sure they’re working right.
One way to tell if you’re having issues with a propane tank is if you hear noises coming from either the tank line or the gas line feeding it. If your propane tank is making unusual noises, contact us immediately!
Here are three sounds you might hear, and the possible explanations for each:
Gurgling or humming – If you hear a gurgling or humming noise coming from your propane tank, it means that it has been overfilled – a problem that can over-pressure your tank, strain the regulator and decrease propane distribution (this is one of several reasons why our crews use an overfill limiting device on our trucks during propane deliveries). Other signs of an overfilled tank include low heat, yellow pilot lights (see below) and weak flames. NEVER try to drain your tank on your own – contact us and our techs will take care of the problem.
Knocking – A knocking sound coming from your tank could indicate an uneven mix of gas and air. Another sign of this problem is a discolored flame: a normal flame is blue with a yellow tip; if your flame is something other than these colors, contact us.
Hissing – If your propane is hissing, this could mean that there is a leak. Immediately turn off your propane tank and contact us.
As you can see, each of these issues represents a serious issue that needs to be handled by a professional as quickly as possible! If you notice any of these problems, or want to learn more about propane safety for your Buffalo- or Rochester area home, please contact us any time.
