Safety Tips For Lighting An Appliance With A Blown Propane Pilot Light

Do you use propane as an energy source for your home? If so, you likely chose this energy source due to its versatility. If you have a pilot light on your propane appliance, you need to ensure that you know what to do if the pilot light goes out. This is important to ensure the safety of you and your family.

Why Pilot Lights Go Out

The pilot light on your propane appliance may go out for a number of reasons. If you notice that it is repeatedly going out, you should consider having the appliance serviced by a professional. They are the best resource to use when determining the exact reason a pilot light will not stay lit. Some common culprits for pilot lights issues are malfunctioned equipment and drafty conditions.

Safety Considerations 

- Since propane is a type of gas, it may be difficult for you to smell a leak. This is why you need to use prudent judgement if you decide to try to light the pilot light yourself. One of the first things you should do is get down to floor level and sniff for the smell of propane. The reason why you should get down low is because the smell of propane is likely to linger lower than higher in the event of a leak. Stop and call a professional if you detect the odor of propane, and do not attempt to light your appliance due to the risk of combustion causing an explosion or fire.

- Beware of odors in the area of the appliance that could be stronger than the smell of the propane. For example, if you have recently cooked something that has a strong odor, it could mask the odor of of a propane leak.

- Even if you do not detect the odor of propane, you need to ensure that you clear the area of other individuals while you light the appliance. Ensure that you have adequate ventilation in the area where you will be lighting the pilot light. The easiest way to do this is to simply open up doors and windows. You should also review the manufacturer's recommendations for lighting the appliance even if you have lit it before.

- Some consumers make the mistake of applying oil-based lubricants to knobs on appliances that are hard to turn. These lubricants can result in build-up, which can accumulate around mechanisms such as knobs on appliances and make them even more difficult to use.

- Avoid using tools during the pilot lighting. This is because the use of tools could damage your appliance, and result in a propane leak.

- Ensure that any nearby appliances as well as items that could produce sparks are turned off or extinguished. Do not overlook the importance of not smoking during the lighting of the pilot light.

To learn more about propane, contact a company like Sunrise Cooperative Inc


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