Why do I Need a Propane System Leak Test?
According to the National Fire Protection Association, a Propane System Leak Test must be performed “Immediately after the gas is turned on into a new system or into 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.” (NFPA 54 (2006) 8.2.3.
While home owners may think it’s unnecessary for a leak test on their propane system; not only is it required by law, it is necessary to ensure your propane system is safe for you, your family and your home.
What is a Leak Test?
A Leak test is a procedure performed to detect any leaks in your propane system due to new set-up, new service, interruption of service, or out of gas situations. It is done from a safety standpoint and is required by law.
Out of Gas = Required Leak Test
Learn more about the specifics behind leak testing: Propane Leak Test Explained.
When is a Leak Test Required?
Leak tests are required when:
- New service / Occupancy change
- New system
- After the tanks runs empty – ‘Out of Gas’ Situations
- Interruption of service (repairs, shut offs, new equipment, etc.)
- Suspected Leaks
- Disconnects and lock outs due to unpaid account balances
In addition, industry standard best practice calls for a thorough inspection of all system components, from the storage tank, to piping, to appliances at least once every 5 years.
What Happens when I have an “Out of Gas” Situation?
No matter the reason, when an “Out of Gas” situation occurs, the gas company must come and perform a leak test before the gas system can be turned back on. If any leaks are found during the test, the system is legally not allowed to be turned back on until the leaks have been repaired.
“Out of Gas” situations usually occur during the winter months when the weather is at its worst. Customers are responsible for checking their propane levels. Running out of gas can be avoided by signing up for automatic deliveries.
Don’t know how to check your gauge levels? Learn by clicking in this link.
Is the Leak Test an Additional Charge?
There is never a charge for a leak test when switching to CES as your gas supplier or when establishing a new service. If you’ve discontinued the usage of your gas system such as closing a summer residence or a swimming pool heater; or if you run out of propane due to a past due balance, there is a charge.
Leak test are required by law when there is a new service, “out of gas” situations, interruption of services, and can be costly and time consuming to the company and customer. As always, proper maintenance on your system is recommended. But the leak test can be avoided by checking your gas levels regularly or signing up for automatic delivery.
Contact us today at 800-874-1975 or use this handy form below to request automatic delivery.
If you have questions about your service or products we offer, please email info@combinedenergyservices.com Do not leave a service or product question in the comments.
It makes a lot of sense to get a leak test done when there is some suspicion of a leak in the system. My brother uses a lot of propane at his job and he needs to make sure it’s not leaking anywhere. I’ll try to share your article with him soon so that he knows how to work with his propane lines.