Propane is a reliable and efficient energy source for homes. It can power furnaces, water heaters, ranges, fireplaces, clothes dryers, generators, and other appliances.

Like any fuel, propane needs to be used correctly. Knowing a few basic propane appliance safety tips can help you recognize potential problems and know when to call a professional.

Here are seven important safety tips every homeowner who uses propane should know.

1. Know What Propane Smells Like

Propane naturally has no odor. For safety, an odorant is added to give it a strong, unpleasant smell often compared to rotten eggs or a skunk-like odor.

Make sure everyone in your household knows what propane smells like. Recognizing the odor can help you identify a possible leak quickly.

If you smell propane inside or around your home, do not ignore it. Avoid flames, sparks, electrical switches, phones, and anything else that could create an ignition source. Leave the area and contact your propane supplier or emergency services from a safe location.

Never try to locate or repair a suspected propane leak yourself.

2. Have Propane Appliances Serviced by Qualified Professionals

Propane appliances need proper maintenance to operate safely and efficiently. Furnaces, water heaters, fireplaces, ranges, and other equipment should be inspected and serviced according to the appliance manufacturer’s recommendations.

A qualified service technician can check important components and look for signs of wear or improper operation. Professional maintenance may also identify small problems before they become more serious.

Avoid attempting repairs or modifications to propane appliances, gas lines, regulators, or other parts of the propane system yourself. Propane equipment should be serviced by professionals who are trained to work with these systems.

3. Keep the Areas Around Appliances Clear

Propane appliances need adequate space and ventilation to operate properly. Avoid storing combustible materials close to furnaces, water heaters, fireplaces, and other fuel-burning equipment.

The area around an appliance should also be kept clean. Dust, clutter, and household items can interfere with airflow or make it harder to notice a developing problem.

Pay special attention to equipment located in basements, utility rooms, garages, and other areas that can easily become storage spaces.

Never block vents, air intakes, flues, or other parts of an appliance’s ventilation system.

4. Watch for Signs of an Appliance Problem

You do not need to be a technician to notice when something seems different.

Pay attention to changes in the way your propane appliances operate. Unusual noises, soot, recurring ignition problems, unexpected odors, or an appliance that repeatedly shuts off can indicate that service is needed.

Changes in fuel consumption can also be worth investigating. If your household begins using much more propane than normal without an obvious reason, an appliance or another part of the system may need attention.

Do not continue operating an appliance if you believe something is wrong. Contact a qualified professional and have the equipment inspected.

5. Install and Maintain Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Any home with fuel-burning appliances should take carbon monoxide safety seriously.

Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas. It can be produced when fuels do not burn completely. Because you cannot see or smell carbon monoxide, working carbon monoxide detectors are an important part of home safety.

Install carbon monoxide detectors according to applicable safety guidance and manufacturer instructions. Test them regularly and replace batteries or the entire detector when recommended.

If a carbon monoxide alarm sounds, treat it seriously. Leave the home and follow the detector manufacturer’s instructions and guidance from local emergency authorities.

6. Never Use Outdoor Propane Appliances Indoors

Propane grills, patio heaters, and other appliances designed for outdoor use should never be brought inside your home for cooking or heat.

This is especially important during winter storms and power outages. An outdoor appliance does not become safe for indoor use simply because doors or windows are open.

Use every propane appliance only for its intended purpose and in the location specified by its manufacturer.

The same principle applies to portable equipment. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions before operating a propane-powered appliance or connecting a propane cylinder.

7. Don’t Let Your Propane Tank Run Empty

Keeping track of your propane supply is an important part of managing a propane-powered home.

Check your tank gauge regularly, especially during periods of heavy use. Cold weather can cause households that rely on propane heating to go through fuel much faster than they do during warmer months.

Do not intentionally allow your propane tank to run completely empty. If you do run out of propane, follow your propane supplier’s instructions before attempting to use your appliances again. A qualified professional may need to perform safety procedures before propane service can be restored.

Make Propane Safety Part of Your Home Routine

Propane appliances can provide dependable heating, hot water, cooking, and other everyday comforts. Safe operation starts with knowing your equipment and paying attention to changes.

Learn what propane smells like. Keep appliance areas clear. Maintain working carbon monoxide detectors. Follow manufacturer instructions, and leave repairs and system modifications to qualified professionals.

It is also important to keep an eye on your propane supply. A little preparation can help you avoid an unexpected empty tank when you need propane most.

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