Our part of North Carolina sees more than its fair share of stunning, sunny days throughout the year, but we get our share of rough weather too. Whether it’s storm season or a bout of harsh winter weather, it’s crucial to make sure your outdoor propane and natural gas equipment is protected from the elements.
Here are some practical tips for your grill, fire pit, patio heater or other outdoor gas appliances.
Keep your grill and other outdoor propane appliances at least three feet from doors and windows and at least 10 feet from any air intake. That same clearance should apply to deck railings, siding, outdoor furniture and anything else combustible nearby.
Keep kids and pets at a safe distance whenever an outdoor gas appliance is in use, and have any equipment installed by trained professionals, with annual inspections and maintenance to catch small issues before they become bigger ones.
Every home propane tank has a shut-off valve on top. In an emergency, turn it all the way to the right to close off the gas supply to your home. It’s equally important to know the location of the individual shut-offs for each of your gas appliances. For natural gas service, familiarize yourself with your home’s main shut-off valve as well, and don’t hesitate to reach out to LG Jordan Oil & Gas if you need guidance locating or operating any of these valves.
Ahead of severe weather, make sure your propane tank and appliances are properly anchored to prevent dangerous movement during high winds. If you own your tank, contact LG Jordan for a consultation to confirm it’s secure and up to code.
It’s also wise to keep a storm preparedness kit on hand with bottled water, nonperishable food, medical supplies, a flashlight and device chargers, and to stay tuned to local authorities for evacuation guidance as a storm approaches.
Propane tanks need the right conditions to stay safe and functional. Always store cylinders outdoors in a well-ventilated space, never indoors or in enclosed areas like garages, basements or sheds, since even “empty” tanks can hold residual gas. Keep tanks upright with the valve on top, away from direct sunlight and temperature swings, and use a waterproof cover or covered, ventilated area to guard against rust and corrosion.
Propane has a distinctive rotten-egg smell to help you catch a leak quickly. If you smell gas, leave the area right away and avoid anything that could spark, including lights, appliances and phones. If it’s safe to do so, shut off the gas at your tank’s main valve by turning it clockwise. Then call LG Jordan or 911 from a safe location, and stay clear until help arrives.
If you have questions about your propane appliances, or you’d like to explore lifestyle-enhancing gas products for your home, LG Jordan Oil & Gas is here for homeowners throughout Wake, Chatham and the surrounding five-county area.
Contact us today, and we’ll get back to you promptly. (If you have a propane-related emergency, please do not use our website to contact us — call our office directly.)
