What To Do If You Think You Smell Gas in Your House
Safety is Valley Energy’s top priority.
The smell of gas should never be ignored. As a homeowner, knowing how to recognize and respond to a propane gas leak is essential for keeping your household safe.
What Does Propane Smell Like?
Propane itself is naturally odorless, but for safety, manufacturers add an odorant called mercaptan. This harmless additive creates a strong, distinctive odor often described as similar to rotten eggs, sulfur, or skunk spray.
What To Do If You Smell Gas
If you suspect a propane leak in or around your home, follow these steps right away:
1. Avoid All Ignition Sources
- Do not light matches, candles, or cigarettes.
- Do not turn on light switches, appliances, or thermostats.
Do not use your phone or ring doorbells inside the home.
Even small sparks can trigger an explosion if propane gas is present.
2. Evacuate Immediately
Leave the house with your family and pets as soon as possible. Do not try to identify or fix the leak on your own. Once outside, move to a safe distance and avoid using your vehicle or other electrical equipment until you are cleared to return.
3. Notify Authorities
From a safe location, first contact your local fire department or emergency services by dialing 911. Once emergency services have been contacted, call Valley Energy.
Valley Energy can be reached at our main office by calling 540-338-6457 during business hours. If contacting Valley Energy after business hours, please call our emergency phone number 800-279-2566.
4. Turn Off the Gas Supply (If Safe)
If your propane tank is located away from the house and you can reach it safely, turn the main supply valve clockwise to shut off the gas. If you have a large tank positioned close to your home, avoid going near it. Your priority should be evacuation.
5. Have Your System Inspected
Do not return to your home or attempt to use propane appliances until a qualified technician or emergency responder checks that your system is leak-free and safe to operate.
Stay Safe With Professional Propane Service
Your safety is our top priority. At Valley Energy, we want our customers across Northern Virginia, Loudoun County, Fairfax County, Jefferson County, WV, and surrounding areas to have peace of mind when it comes to their propane systems. If you ever suspect a leak, follow the steps above and call us right away. Our trained technicians are ready to inspect, service, and restore your propane supply safely.
Valley Energy is here to help. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions at 540-338-6457 or email us at info@valleyenergy.org. If you need to contact us after business hours due to an emergency situation, please call 800-279-2566.
To learn more about propane safety and the propane industry, visit the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC).
