Propane smell

[Cappy126]

Hello all. Has anyone experienced this?

It seems when my propane tank level is low, I start to smell propane near the fridge/water heater area. The propane sensor has never gone off and it only happens when my tanks are low. I’ve read that when propane tanks get low the odor additives settle at the bottom of the tank but should I be smelling that in the trailer?

Thanks
Jim.

[skids]

I would switch over to my other tank and disconnect the low one. In fact, I would open the valve and evacuate the remaining gas before refilling.

[Jagiven]

Originally Posted by skids

I would switch over to my other tank and disconnect the low one. In fact, I would open the valve and evacuate the remaining gas before refilling.

I not heard of this issue before.

Modern tanks have a safety feature, that will not let you open the valve and purge the gas. There is a spot for a slotted screwdriver, that let's the propane shop to purge a new tank.

[skids]

Originally Posted by Jagiven

I not heard of this issue before.

Modern tanks have a safety feature, that will not let you open the valve and purge the gas. There is a spot for a slotted screwdriver, that let's the propane shop to purge a new tank.

Well, then I guess I would not just open the valve. LOL I would find a way to purge that tank, even with the screw driver vent.

I suspect you can slightly open the valve until the gas pressure is drawn down and then open it wide. No?

[Jagiven]

Originally Posted by skids

Well, then I guess I would not just open the valve. LOL I would find a way to purge that tank, even with the screw driver vent.

I suspect you can slightly open the valve until the gas pressure is drawn down and then open it wide. No?

Nope, if you have a gas grill at home, would be your best option.

[RogerR]

If this only happens when you get low it could be the regulator has a problem. I would start at the tank and work down the line with soapy water and look for bubbles. When you are at the regulator there is a hole on the bottom to allow it sense atmospheric pressure, be sure to test that one.
As to purging the tank, consult an LP wholesaler, not the guy at Tractor Supply who fills your tank but someone with LP training and education. The screw on the side of the valve is to test that the tank is up to the max fill line. Be sure to make sure it is also fully closed and not leaking.

[Cappy126]

Ok thank you

[Cappy126]

Ok will do
Thanks.

[Cappy126]

Originally Posted by RogerR

If this only happens when you get low it could be the regulator has a problem. I would start at the tank and work down the line with soapy water and look for bubbles. When you are at the regulator there is a hole on the bottom to allow it sense atmospheric pressure, be sure to test that one.
As to purging the tank, consult an LP wholesaler, not the guy at Tractor Supply who fills your tank but someone with LP training and education. The screw on the side of the valve is to test that the tank is up to the max fill line. Be sure to make sure it is also fully closed and not leaking.

Thanks so much.

I will check for leaks inside the trailer, the smell is strongest under the fridge compartment and some in the water heater closet. It’s strange I only smell it when the tanks are at around 1/4 full.