Propane is a clean-burning and safe way to heat your home and water and run many appliances. One of the many benefits of clean-burning propane is that there are—on average—fewer maintenance issues for equipment—and fewer breakdowns versus other heating systems.
But if you do have a problem with your heating system—or any of your propane equipment or appliances—NEVER attempt to repair it yourself, even if you think it’s an easy fix. Here’s why you should always hire a certified professional for any propane appliance or system repairs.
The propane in your tank is highly pressurized, and your system uses a regulator to decrease the pressure as it enters your home. The pressure settings are different for natural gas than for propane and when the regulator is set incorrectly, it can lead to a gas leak.
That’s true whether pressure is too high or too low. The problems that result when pressure is too low are why we are required to do a pressure test after you have a runout.
When the regulator isn’t working properly, you’ll notice the flame height fluctuating, and orange flames instead of blue flames. There may also be soot. You may even notice that you’re using more gas than usual. If your regulator is submerged due to flooding, you should have it replaced.
In addition to moderating the pressure, the regulator helps maintain the correct ratio of propane and air to burn correctly. Modifications or repairs performed by a nonprofessional can result in the wrong ratios. When appliances are burning propane incorrectly, they produce carbon monoxide, which is an odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly.
While propane is extremely safe, it’s a highly flammable gas under certain conditions. In the case of a leak, gas can accumulate in enclosed areas and any spark could set it off. Sparks can be caused by tools on metal, as well as flipping switches, lighting matches, using the phone, thermostats, or appliances. Make sure everyone in your home knows what to do when they smell gas.
Do not relight pilot lights until the leak has been repaired and the system has had a pressure test.
A DIY repair job could void your warranty—or even your insurance. That could cost you a lot more than whatever you think you might be saving by trying to fix a problem yourself.
What should you do? Call up a local, reliable provider like Depew Energy! Our technicians are trained and licensed, and when you need a repair, we’re here for you with quality workmanship and transparent and fair pricing.
We even offer a variety of service plans with different levels of coverage for your heating equipment. These include things like an annual tune-up of your system; the best way to prevent problems! All our plans are comprehensive and affordable which can help you keep the cost of repairs manageable if your equipment does ever encounter a problem.
Whether you need an equipment repair or safe and dependable propane delivery contact the professionals at Depew Energy today. We take care of residential and commercial customers throughout the Hudson Valley of New York.