09/02/2022
I have heard many comments this year on Propane cost and consumption.
There could be many reasons why and combinations of issues.
One could be a small leak, and this should be checked first.
1. Create a mixture of 50% water and 50% liquid dish washing soap Apply the soap water mixture onto all test connections, by putting mixture into a glass and rigorously agitating with a paint brush to get a froth.
Check from the tank all copper fittings, and black iron or Yellow flex lines at the joints to see if they bubble.
Wipe off excess after testing.
This should be done outdoors and in.
You can look up soap testing gas leak for YouTube videos.
Mercaptan is added to propane as a effective odorant, That smelly rotting cabbage smell.
It is used specifically for humans nose to detect no special equipment needed, it is detectable by the human nose at concentrations as small as 10 parts per billion.
2. Get right in there and smell the joints like a beagle, if you smell the smallest of scent soap test.
This should be done first then look at consumption with lifestyle or appliances with pilot light that can be turned off if not used or off season.
Heating appliances get all the attention but the biggest cost is heating water.
Old Hot water tank should be serviced or replaced.
If they are making a pinging or popping sound or have a sour smell they may have a build up of sediment, usually time to replace as it may be a solid mass at the bottom and servicing cost out way the cost to replace logically.
There is a sacrificial anode inside that deteriorates instead of the tank its replaceable but often the tank style should be replaced.
Tanks that are over 10 years should be monitored and at 15 they reach the end of there life cycle, maybe sooner with well water containing lots of minerals.
Get soaping and sniffing and listening.
Take care
