Propane Leak Tests: Do I Need One?

If you own a propane-powered home here in New Hampshire, congratulations – you’ve made an investment in a home powered by one of the safest and most effective fuels around.

One of the reasons why propane is so safe is because there are very strict guidelines that govern its use, delivery, and handling. Among the most important of these guidelines are requirements for propane leak tests.

Why do I need a propane leak test?

A propane system is connected via a system of plumbing pipes, which are under constant pressure when the system is running; this pressure strains system pipe fittings and the hardening compounds that seal them.

As this pressure rises and falls, it weakens these joints and seals – which could lead to a gas leak. A leak test simply assesses the integrity of the propane system plumbing joints and the seal of the pipe joint compound.

When do I need a propane leak test?

Leak tests are required by law any time there is an interruption of service – in other words, any time the flow of gas has stopped for any reason.

As NFPA 54 (2006), 8.2.3 states,

“Immediately after the gas is turned on into a new system or into a system that has been initially restored after an interruption of service, the piping system shall be tested for leakage. If leakage is indicated, the gas supply shall be shut off until the necessary repairs have been made.”

For practical purposes, this means that a leak test must be performed:

• When a new propane system is installed
• When a new customer begins service or changes residence
• After an interruption of service for repairs, equipment shut-off/disconnect, etc.
• After a fuel runout
• If a leak is suspected
• If service has been suspended due to an unpaid account balance

If any of the above applies, then a leak/pressure test – performed by a licensed, qualified professional – is required before a propane delivery can be attempted.

Two ways to avoid unnecessary propane leak tests

The most common reason customers why customers need a leak test is because they run out of gas – usually when they need heat most. For this reason, we recommend taking the following steps to reduce the likelihood of a propane run-out:

• If you are a will-call customer, keep a vigilant eye on fuel levels; call for a propane delivery when the tank is still at least one-quarter full
• Strongly consider enrolling in automatic propane delivery from Pemi River Fuels, which places the responsibility of managing your propane levels on us! WE monitor your levels and schedule deliveries to make sure you never run out of propane. And if happen to run out at any time, in addition to coming out to refill your tank, we will also perform the required leak testing for free.

Need a propane leak test? We can help. Contact Pemi River Fuels today for licensed propane service and propane deliveries in Grafton, Belknap, and Carroll Counties, NH!