Actions to Take For a Propane Tank Valve Leak

Bleeder Valve

• The bleeder valve is typically only used by the person who fills the tank with propane. To vent the air out of the tank and allow the propane to fill the tank, the bleeder valve must be open. After the tank is filled, the bleeder valve should be closed. However, when it is not, it can create a leak in your tank. You will likely hear a faint hissing sound if this happens. If your bleeder valve is leaking, turn the valve clockwise until you no longer hear the hissing. Always use your hands, never a tool to close the valve. If it continues, seek help from the company that filled your tank.

Relief Valve

• The purpose of the relief valve is to let out any excess pressure that may build up in your tank, especially on a hot day. Leakage from this valve can be normal. You will know if the relief valve is leaking because you may hear hissing from the tank and the cover for the valve may pop off due to the pressure. Do not try to manually close this valve. Doing so risks an explosion from too much pressure in your tank. Instead, you can hose down the tank to cool it off. When the tank is cool, the valve should close on its own if it is operating properly.

Usage Valve

• If you cannot determine which valve is leaking, you can try the remedies for the leaking of a bleeder or relief valve. If the leak continues, the valve at the top of your tank that opens when you use the tank may be leaking. Make sure the valve has been closed completely and check if the leaking stops with a propane leak detector solution. If the valve still leaks, you must get it replaced.

Valve Replacement

• When you cannot remedy the valve leak by closing each of the valves properly, you must either replace the tank or the problem valve. If you cannot stop the leak, transport the tank to an open area if it is a smaller tank. If the tank is larger, stay away from the tank until a professional comes to look at it. Evacuate your home if the tank is located indoors. Never try to replace a propane tank valve on your own because the contents are under a lot of pressure. A valve replacements requires the expertise of a professional.