Our #1 Priority: Safety
The safety of our customers, employees, and community is our highest priority. We invest heavily in ongoing safety training and resources, and hold ourselves to a higher standard of safety protocol.
Propane is safe
In addition to being non-toxic to soil and water, the production, storage, transportation and use of propane are subject to strict standards and regulations. Propane is stored and used in sealed containers and fuel systems. It is only to be transferred from one container to another by trained personnel.
The Propane Education and Research Council reports that propane tanks are 20-times more puncture-proof than conventional gasoline tanks.
How to identify a propane leak
Propane leaks are flammable and, for this reason, need to be addressed in a speedy fashion. But don’t worry – there are several signs that can help you spot something that’s not quite right!
A strange smell like rotten eggs or skunk spray is a common indicator of a propane leak. Likewise, if you notice that you’re going through your propane way faster than normal but haven’t changed your usage behavior, there might be an issue too.
Keep an eye on the performance of your fuel. Is your fire-pit flame weaker than usual? Are your appliances not working at their best? Well, you may have a propane leak.
If you experience any of these signs, make sure to get in touch with us straight away. Your safety is our priority, and we’ll be on our way to sort you out in no time!
Importance of maintaining your tank
Maintenance is crucial to ensure your tank is ticking as it should 365 days a year.
Yes, propane is a safe fuel that will keep your home toasty without much hassle, but getting your tank checked from time to time can spare you from unwanted surprises.
At Hicksgas, we take care of maintenance routines for free! Our qualified technicians will carry out a detailed inspection of your propane system, looking for things such as proper line size, appliance shut-offs, sediment traps, proper regulators, and gas leaks.
Call before you dig
Call Hicksgas to locate underground propane gas lines prior to digging or excavating. Additionally, most electric, water, sewer, and telecommunications companies are delivering utility services underground.
To avoid personal injury and damage to those underground lines call your state or local Call Before You Dig service to locate any other underground services and utilities that may be present.
How to prevent issues with your propane system
Looking after your propane is the first important step to benefit from safe, reliable fuel all year round. So, what can you do?
Keep your tank full
Check on your propane levels regularly and give us a shout if your tank is running empty. Empty tanks might allow air or moisture to seep in, which can lead to issues such as corrosion.
Store your propane in a ventilated area
Give your propane some much-deserved breathing space. Store your tank outdoors, place it in a well-ventilated area, and keep it away (at least 3m!) from electrical sources at all times.
FAQs
If it is safe to do so, yes. To close the valve, turn it to the right (clockwise).
However, if the leak is near the tank or the valve, or if there are flames, the best option is to evacuate the area and call for help – we will be there as soon as possible.
Make sure not to use any appliances, electrical switches, or phones in the affected area.
The simple answer to this is no. Don’t take a chance!
Turning your propane supply back on can be very dangerous and put you and your loved ones at risk of injuries.
After a suspected leak or a situation of emergency, it is essential to allow one of our qualified technicians to inspect your tank, address the leak source, and take the appropriate steps to keep everyone safe.
Back home after some time away? Get in touch with us and we will gladly relight your pilot lights for you.
Relighting the pilot lights yourself could start a fire or an explosion, so it’s best to leave it to our experts, who know exactly what to do.
Don’t worry – it won’t take long! Once we are done, you can enjoy a cozy ambiance in a matter of minutes!