We all worry about gas leaks in our homes, especially after seeing stories on the news about disastrous tragedies. Learn how to check for grill gas leaks, how to fix them, and what to do to keep yourself safe while keeping your grill in good working order.
When To Check for Grill Gas Leaks
You should check for grill gas leaks whenever you exchange or refill your gas canister. Your fittings can become loose even when the grill is not in use. Weather can corrode seals, and gas lines can get pin holes that you might overlook with the naked eye. The danger is that when a gas leak comes near an open flame like your grill, it can ignite the entire pressurized tank, causing an explosion. Checking for leaks takes just a minute or two, so it’s worth it to be safe.
How To Detect a Grill Gas Leak
All you need to perform a grill gas leak test is a water bowl with some soap in it. Use a paintbrush or grill brush to apply this solution to the hose, from the fittings up to the grill itself. Turn on the gas and watch. If you see bubbles appear anywhere along with the hose, you may leak. Turn off the gas and have the grill line serviced by a professional.
The less reliable test is the smell test. Your grill gas will have a sort of sickly sweet odor to it that’s immediately recognizable as gas. If you notice a gas smell, you may have a leak somewhere in the line. Of course, this can also mean that your burners aren’t lit but the gas is on, so know the difference. On the other hand, if you’re cooking and smell gas, immediately shut off the grill, get away, and call the fire department. This is because gas should be burning while you’re grilling, and burning gas doesn’t smell.
Be Sure To Be Safe
Safety is paramount. Never bring a gas cylinder into an enclosed space like your garage or home, and don’t leave it in your car. Don’t smoke while you’re handling the cylinder or checking for leaks. Don’t use an open flame to check for leaks; the gas could cause a backdraft into the hose or cylinder and cause an explosion. Never store a cylinder where it might be exposed to excessively high temperatures, including under or near the grill. When you’re checking for a leak, make sure the burners are not lit.
Contact Sin City Plumbing for Help
If you’d like more information on avoiding grilling gas accidents in your backyard, we can help. Contact Sin City Plumbing
