ALEUTIAN PROPANE SALES

Your Full Service Propane Dealer

Safety Tips

Because of its portability, liquefied petroleum gas (LP-gas) provides you with modern conveniences no matter where you travel. Stored as a liquid and used as a gas, it will cook your meals, heat your vehicle, keep you supplied with hot water, and even refrigerate your food. LP-gas - whether it's propane, butane, or a mixture of the two - is non-toxic, safe and economical.

Like any fuel however, LP-gas is combustible. This page contains some important points for safe storage, handling and use of LP-gas containers, systems and appliances. If others traveling with you are unfamiliar with LP-gas, or if you lend your vehicle to someone - be sure to acquaint them with these safety tips as well.

Be Familiar With Its Odor

When produced, LP-gas is both colorless and odorless. For safety reasons, a chemical odorant is added so that, in the event of a leak, you can detect the escaping gas by its strong, distinct smell. Ask your LP-gas supplier to familiarize you and your family with this odor.

Under certain circumstances, propane gas may lose the distinctive odor that was added. This is sometimes called "odor fade", and it can occur both in new steel containers when first placed into service and in used steel containers left open to the atmosphere for a long time. In addition, under certain circumstances not everyone can smell the odorant in propane. Physical conditions such as competing odors, common colds and allergies, smoking, etc. may lessen a person's ability to smell.

If you think the odor of your propane gas is weak, or if your sense of smell is impaired, call your propane supplier. A service technician can verify the odor of the propane gas in your tank. And if your sense of smell is impaired, consider installing an electronic gas detector in your home, vehicle or RV.

If you suspect a leak, follow these steps

All occupants should leave the building or vehicle immediately.

Do not operate electrical switches, use the phone, light a match or create a spark!

Turn off all gas appliances.

Close all cylinder or tank supply valves immediately.

Open all doors and windows and let fresh air blow away the escaped gas.

Call a trained gas service person and do not turn the gas on again until the leak has been found and corrected.

General Cylinder Information

LP-gas, usually propane, is sold and stored in containers that, when properly filled, contain about 80 percent liquid. The remaining 20 percent of space above the liquid contains propane vapor. (It is this vapor that burns in your appliance when mixed with air.)

The vapor space in the propane cylinder also provides room for the liquid propane to expand if the cylinder is exposed to warmer temperatures.

WARNING !

If a cylinder is overfilled (that is, beyond 80 percent capacity), there won't be enough vapor space to accommodate the expanding liquid if the cylinder is exposed to warmer temperatures. Any of the following hazardous conditions could occur:

The pressure relief valve may open, discharging propane to relieve the pressure.

Propane liquid could enter the piping system, resulting in higher than normal pressures to the appliances.

If the cylinder becomes liquid full and the pressure relief valve fails to open, the container could rupture, resulting in serious injury or property damage.

New cylinders or used cylinders that have been exposed to the atmosphere must be purged of air before being filled.

There are two basic types of portable propane cylinders the vertical (upright) standard cylinder and the horizontal cylinder that comes with a special mounting bracket and which can be installed either vertically or horizontally. Both types of cylinders are manufactured in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) specifications.

When you purchase a new cylinder, be sure it fits the bracket you have. And if you use a cylinder exchange service, be sure the cylinder you receive is the same type as you turned in. Vertical cylinders are designed for service only in an upright (vertical) position. If they are interchanged, propane liquid rather than vapor could enter the piping system. This might cause excessive pressure and, possibly, a fire or explosion.

Finally, when you install your new or refilled cylinder, remember that, in a single cylinder system, all appliance valves must be turned off before you open the container service valve.

WARNING !

It is important for you to be familiar with the type of cylinder(s) you own. Installing the incorrect cylinder could allow propane liquid to enter the piping system, causing your appliances to malfunction and creating a fire and explosion hazard.

Handling Propane Cylinders Safely

Whether you're transporting your propane gas cylinder or storing it for future use, you need to handle it carefully. Here are some safety tips you should follow:

Propane gas cylinders must be transported so the relief valve communicates with the vapor space at all times. For that reason, you should never transport a cylinder lying on its side unless it's a cylinder designed for horizontal use.

When transporting disconnected cylinders, the container outlets must be plugged, or capped. This will keep gas from escaping and prevent foreign material from entering the cylinder should the valve be opened accidentally. The threaded safety plug has left-hand threads, so you'll have to turn it counter-clockwise to tighten it.)

Never use, store, or transport full cylinders or empty ones in the passenger space or living area of your RV or camper.

Never store a cylinder inside a building, including a garage. Spare cylinders, for instance, should be stored outdoors and up off the ground on a non-combustible base. Another good practice when storing a cylinder is to plug or cap the service valve outlet.

Any cylinder that is damaged, shows signs of corrosion, has been exposed to fire, or appears to be leaking gas should be removed from service immediately. Store defective cylinders in a safe, outdoor location. Then as soon as possible, have them repaired or disposed of by a qualified service technician.

Securing Containers

Make sure your propane gas containers and regulators are installed and properly secured in or on your vehicle so as to minimize damage in the event of a collision or accident. Depending on the type of vehicle, cylinders and regulating equipment can be located as follows:

On Travel Trailers and Tent Trailers: On the A frame as close to the front of the trailer body as possible.

On Motor Homes, Vans, and Fifth Wheel Trailers that Slide-in Chassis-mounted Units: In a recessed compartment, accessible only from and ventilated to the outdoors and gas tight to the interior of the vehicle. Pressure relief valves must be pointed away from the vehicle or toward the container compartment opening.

Because propane vapors are heavier than air, the compartments for all propane containers aboard your vehicle must be ventilated, both at the top and bottom, and completely sealed from the interior of your vehicle.

Containers located on the rear of a vehicle must be securely fastened and protected by substantial bumpers. The vehicle's minimum normal road clearance under maximum load conditions must never be compromised by the location of a propane container.

WARNING !

Propane gas containers should not be mounted or carried inside passenger area, on the roof or on the front of a vehicle.

Container Maintenance

Protect the outside of your container with light-colored, heat-reflective paint (such as white). This will help reduce the increased pressure as temperatures rise, and protect against rust and corrosion. Aluminum cylinders do not require painting.

NOTE: If your vehicle is involved in a collision or other accident, shut the gas supply off at the container and have the system checked by a qualified propane service person. Again, never use an open flame to check for leaks.

The Regulator Is The Heart of Your LP-Gas System

Propane gas reacts to temperature changes. When the temperature drops, the pressure in the container drops. When the temperature increases, the pressure increases. A regulator assembly must be provided to maintain a constant delivery pressure to your appliances at all times. Two-stage pressure regulation must be used on all RV's.

Attach the regulator assembly directly to the container valve or on a bracket with a flexible high-pressure connector between the cylinder valve and the regulator. Remember the pressure between the container and the regulator assembly is tank pressure, this is the reason for requiring a high-pressure connector.

NOTE: Do not attempt to repair a regulator call your propane gas dealer if service is required.

When tightening a POL fitting into the service outlet valve (left-handed thread) of the cylinder, use a smooth jawed wrench (such as a crescent wrench). Do not over-tighten. This brass fitting is designed to be leak-tight without the use of a pipe compound or tape. Finally, be careful not to scratch or damage the round nose of a POL seat.

Preventing Regulator Freeze-Ups

The presence of moisture in the fuel may cause the regulator to freeze up. The following suggestions may help you prevent regulator freeze-ups and allow moisture to pass harmlessly through the regulator.

Always keep the cylinder (or container) valve closed and POL plug in place when not in use to prevent moisture from collecting inside the container.

If you suspect the presence of moisture, your propane dealer can inject methyl alcohol into your cylinder (or container) before filling.

Operating Appliances Safely

Approved and properly adjusted appliances are very important. Improper flame adjustment (which you can detect by a yellow flame at the burner tip) is dangerous. With adequate ventilation, an operating burner gives off harmless products such as carbon dioxide and water vapor. However, a propane appliance starved of oxygen can quickly produce dangerous amounts of carbon monoxide and may result in asphyxiation. When operating your oven and/or range, open a vent and window to insure an adequate supply of air for safe operation. Never use the oven for heating the recreational Vehicle.

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas, and can't be detected through your sense of smell. If you are exposed to carbon monoxide, you may experience any or all of these symptoms:

Headaches, tightness across the forehead and temples

Weariness, weakness, dizziness and vomiting

Loss of muscular control

Watering and smarting of the eyes

NOTE: If any of these symptoms should develop, get into the fresh air immediately, and have your propane system checked and repaired as needed.

How To Guard Against Carbon Monoxide

Never use the oven or stovetop burner to heat your home or vehicle.

Never use any camping or other portable heater that is not designed and approved for your vehicle or is not approved for use with propane gas.

Never take a barbecue grill (propane or charcoal) inside your home or vehicle to cook or heat with.

Have all appliances, including venting and burner systems, tested for proper operation by a qualified propane gas service person.

Always be sure your appliance, home or vehicle is properly ventilated when using propane heaters and appliances.

There are commercial detectors available that can be easily installed inside a home or camper to warn of the presence of carbon monoxide.

Heaters used in RV's must be approved for RV use and be of a sealed combustion type or have other special vent systems.

To insure your safety and the trouble free use of your propane gas system, we urge you to consult Aleutian Propane Sales or your propane dealer if you have any questions about the operation of your propane system or appliances.

Recommended Safety Tips

These common-sense rules should be observed:

LP-gas is heavier than air; therefore, perform service work on an LP-gas fuel system in an open or well-ventilated area. Never allow the gas to escape in a closed area.

Do not tamper with safety devices.

Familiarize yourself with the location of the container's shutoff valve.

If your vehicle uses propane and you take your vehicle inside a garage for repairs, and the fuel is not needed for operation of the engine, it is suggested the liquid service valve be closed, and the engine be ran until fuel is consumed and the engine stops.

Qualified service personnel must do installation and repair of LP-gas equipment.

Never test for leaks with a flame. Use a suitable leak detector solution.

If you park your vehicle inside a garage, be sure:
a. The fuel system is leak free.
b. The container is not overfilled.
c. The liquid service valve is closed.
d. The vehicle is not parked near sources of ignition, or near inadequately ventilated pits.

LP-gas, like all fuels, must be treated with respect and care.

On detection of escaping gas, take the following steps:

a. Immediately shut off the liquid service valve.
b. Eliminate all possible outside sources of ignition.
c. Summon qualified LP-gas personnel.

Barbeque Cylinder Safety

Whether you're transporting your propane gas cylinder or storing it for future use, you need to handle it carefully. Here are some safety tips you should follow:

Propane gas cylinders must be transported and stored so the relief valve communicates with the vapor space at all times. For that reason, you should never transport a cylinder lying on its side unless it's a cylinder designed for horizontal use.

DO NOT store a spare cylinder beneath a grill.

Isolate cylinders from heat, combustible materials and ignition sources.

Never use, store, or transport full cylinders or empty ones in the passenger space or living area of your vehicle, RV or camper.

Never attempt to repair a cylinder or cylinder valve. Please contact our qualified staff for the repair or disposal of any damaged propane gas product.

Never store a cylinder inside a building, including a garage. Spare cylinders, for instance, should be stored in a ventilated place outdoors, and up off the ground on a non-combustible base. Another good practice when storing a cylinder is to plug or cap the service valve outlet.

DO NOT move a cylinder that is in use.

Seasonal Servicing

When summer is here, and itÕs the season most of us, get out our barbecues and start cooking outdoors! But before lighting your barbecue this year, you should give it a complete servicing. The following will ensure that your barbecue is safe to use.

Safety Maintenance

You should check the following items on your barbecue. If any are found to be worn or faulty, you should consider replacing them with new parts, which can be purchased from Aleutian Propane Sales

Propane Cylinder

All propane cylinders have a 12-year life. After 12 years, from the date of manufacture, the cylinder is not allowed to be refilled again. You must either have the old cylinder re-certified, or purchase a new one. You should be aware that all new propane cylinders are sold with the new safety valve, named the Quick Connect Cylinder (QCC-1) and many stores are only handling cylinders also equipped with an Overfill Protection Device (OPD).

The Cooking Grills

Are your grills rusty and/or thin? Remember, you are putting the food you eat on them! New grills, coated with porcelain can be purchased for most barbecues. When cleaning these new grills, use an abrasive sponge, not a wire brush.

The Rocks

If your barbecue is continually flaring up, or your burner rocks are crumbling, you should replace them with either lava or porcelain rocks. The porcelain rocks are a good choice because they do not soak up fat drippings, which cause flare-ups.

The Burner

If your barbecue is heating unevenly, or if you see large yellow flames from any part of your burner, you should replace the burner. Examine the burner for rusty and worn areas by the flame ports, and replace if you see any wear.

Appearance Maintenance

Thoroughly wash your barbecue with soap, water and an abrasive sponge to remove all the old food drippings and grease. If the metal stand, shelves or cylinder are starting to look old and rusty, you can purchase specific paints for these items. Sand the worn and rusted areas, and apply paint according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Other Parts

You can buy to keep your barbecue looking and working like new included burner valves, hoses, regulators, handles, rock grates, rotisseries and covers. Remember, if you do not know how to properly replace a part, or hook up a new cylinder, seek professional help.

CAUTION! Propane can be dangerous if not handled properly!

Propane Safety Tips

If you smell propane (smells like boiled cabbage) you have a LEAK! Immediately close the cylinder or supply valve, and DO NOT attempt to light the barbecue until you have found and corrected the source of the leak.

Do not store any propane cylinders inside your home. They must be stored outdoors, in a well ventilated area out of the weather.

Ensure your propane cylinder and connections are not leaking by applying a soapy water solution to all connections and watch for bubbles.

An early season check up and maintenance will extend the life of your barbecue and ensure a trouble free outdoor cooking season.

Propane Safety

An odor has been added to your propane gas so you can smell it if it escapes, if there is a leak in the system, for example, or if an appliance malfunctions.

Keep these facts in mind...

Some people have a better sense of smell than others.

Some elderly people are unable to detect the odorant in gas.

On rare occasions, some people are unable to detect certain odors.

Colds, allergies, and sinus congestion can all affect your sense of smell.

Tobacco smoke or strong cooking odors can cover up the odors too and remember that the use of tobacco, alcohol, or drugs may also affect your sense of smell.

Under certain circumstances, propane gas may lose the distinctive odor that was added. This is sometimes called "odor fade," and it can occur both in new steel containers when first placed into service and in used steel containers left open to the atmosphere for a long time.

For example, air, water, or rust in a propane tank may weaken the gas odor through a chemical process called oxidation. This can occur in any size container but is most likely to occur in small containers, or cylinders, especially if the valves were left open to the atmosphere after the container was emptied.

Therefore, you should keep the service valve closed when the cylinder is empty or not connected for use. In addition, you should install a cylinder valve plug. This will prevent air and moisture from entering the cylinder.

Never tamper with, apply force to, or use tools on the gas control system. If the control knob will not operate by hand, the control unit must be replaced. Only a trained gas service technician must make repairs

All new containers and used containers not plugged or kept closed may be infiltrated by water, air, or other contaminants. These contaminants must be removed, or purged, before the container is filled and put into service. Your propane gas supplier should do the purging process.

Propane gas leaking from gas lines may lose its odor as it passes through the ground, depending on the type of soil and the distance the gas travels. Whenever you suspect a leak, even if you don't smell the odor of gas you should contact your propane gas supplier.

Water can damage the internal mechanism in the gas control and create a hazardous condition. If your gas control has gotten wet as a result of flooding, for example, a trained gas service technician must replace it immediately

Remember.....

The odor that has been added to your propane gas is a safety feature. Be sure that everyone in your home is familiar with the odor of propane gas.

If your propane system has been in regular use (refilled several times), it's highly unlikely that your gas will lose its distinctive odor.

If you suspect that your gas has lost its odor or your sense of smell has been weakened or otherwise impaired call us immediately.