Propane Appliances: Can I Install Or Fix Them?
If you’ve been using propane in your home for a while, you probably know this is one of the safest fuels around. But despite propane’s impeccable safety record, if you ever need a propane equipment repair or want to install a gas appliance, always call in a professional.
Watching “how-to” videos online or reading some home improvement blogs does not give you the expertise to handle what you’ll encounter if you try to tackle a propane repair or an installation by yourself.
For starters, it’s a safe bet that you don’t have the proper tools or equipment to do the job. But more importantly, an untrained eye may not spot problems that could be stopped before they become worse. If you make a mistake, it may be a costly one to fix. Even worse, you could jeopardize the safety of yourself and your family.
In other words, repairing or installing a complex propane appliance can often present unique challenges that require extensive training and sophisticated diagnostic equipment.
Propane expertise you need
Certified propane technicians have the training, experience, and tools to get the job done—quickly, correctly and safely—thanks in large part to the Certified Employee Training Program (CETP), which is run under the direction of the Propane Education & Research Council.
On-going technician training includes in-house seminars and hands-on demonstrations from manufacturer representatives, insurance companies, and other propane experts, who discuss the safe installation and repair of the latest appliances.
So remember, if you need a repair or an installation, your propane service technician can do that. You shouldn’t.
Preventive propane appliance maintenance
To stay as safe as possible, you should always pay close attention to the operation of your gas appliances. The best way to keep all your propane equipment running properly is to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for preventive maintenance. Be sure to consult your owner’s manuals for what’s required.
More safety tips for propane appliances
When appliances operate properly, propane burns with a blue flame. If you see yellow flames—or notice significant amounts of soot on any equipment–the gas may not be burning completely. This can create carbon monoxide. Contact your propane company or HVAC contractor for service if you notice a yellow flame or soot on your appliances.
You should also regularly check the outdoor vents of your appliances to make sure combustion gases flow unobstructed to the outdoors. Insects, birds and small animals have been known to build nests in vent pipes. To prevent any damage, use a broom or a soft brush to gently remove any obstructions you find in your vents.
If you have questions or concerns about propane safety, be sure to consult with your local North Carolina propane company or your HVAC contractor.
Read more propane safety tips.