Taunton Homeowners: Propane Safety Tips for Gas Appliances

February 17, 2023

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Especially this time of year, many homeowners ask a lot of questions about propane safety tips and look for new ways to get reliable fuel delivery in Taunton. Propane gas delivery takes the guesswork out of making sure that you have enough fuel on hand to run all of your propane gas appliances in the winter months and all year long. Automatic propane gas delivery makes it even easier to be certain that you always have propane in the tank when you need it most.

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What is Propane?

Contents

1 What is Propane?
- 1.1 Propane Gas Delivery
- 1.2 More Propane Safety Tips
2 Safe Propane Gas Delivery Services

One of the best propane safety tips is to take a little time to learn about and understand what propane is and how it works. Some people just switch on appliances and use them, never thinking about how it is powered or how it works. But when it comes to home safety, it is important to know as much as you can about your propane gas appliances and the fuel that makes them run as you can in case you ever experience a problem.

The formal name for propane is “liquefied petroleum gas” or LP gas, as it is sometimes known. Propane is used widely around the world because it is a very clean and efficient fuel. Propane is stored and transported as an extremely cold liquid – so cold, in fact, that it can cause an instant freeze-burn if it were to come in contact with your skin. The liquid is then turned into a gas form inside a tank. Propane is naturally colorless and odorless. However, a special chemical is added to it to make it easier to detect in the event of a spill or leak.

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Propane Gas Delivery

For homeowners who rely on fuel delivery in Taunton, propane gas delivery is brought to your home just like any other type of home fuel. It gets delivered to your home as a liquid and is then pumped into a special storage tank where it changes to gas before leaving the tank to be used. Most propane tanks are silver or white in color to reflect heat and prevent the inner tank pressure from rising too high. Some areas use underground tanks. In this situation, only the top cover will be visible above the ground level. The cover also has special safety components that are used to protect it from damage.

Shut Off Valve – This can be closed to stop the flow of propane into your home if there is an emergency situation or a leak.
Safety Relieve Valve – Automatically pops open if the pressure inside the tank gets too high and closes again automatically when the pressure returns to normal levels.
Regulator – Controls the pressure of the propane gas that is coming out of the tank for use with your propane appliances.
Tank Gauge – Reveals how much propane is still remaining inside the tank for easy monitoring of fuel levels for propane gas delivery.

Pipes then carry the propane from the tank underground and into your home. Some residences have a secondary regulator on the outside wall of the structure for additional gas pressure adjustments. Additional shut-off valves are added in each pipe to stop the flow of gas to certain propane gas appliances. Finally, an appliance connector is used to carry gas from the pipe to your propane gas appliances using a 2-3 foot long flexible tube.

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More Propane Safety Tips

Once you know what propane is and understand how propane gas delivery works to deliver fuel to your propane gas appliances, the next step is to learn more propane safety tips that will help you know how to react in case of an emergency.

Flammable Vapors – Many fuels and chemical solvents can accidentally be ignited by the pilot light of a propane appliance. To reduce associated risks, store any flammable liquids outdoors in a well-sealed container and do not use flammable liquids inside of a building where propane appliances are located. If you think you smell gas put out all smoking materials and other flames. Do not operate a cell phone, telephone, appliance or lights, all of which can trigger a fire or an explosion. Leave the area immediately and get everyone out where you suspect a gas leak. Shut off the gas and report the leak from a neighbor’s home or nearby building. Call your propane gas delivery service first and then call 911 or the local fire department if you are unable to reach anyone immediately. Do not wait for a callback.
The Smell of Propane – The chemical added to propane prior to fuel delivery in Taunton makes it very distinct and difficult to miss. It has a very strong smell that is somewhere between a skunk’s spray, rotten eggs, and a dead animal. If you smell anything like that, make sure to take the precautions outlined above and contact someone for help right away. Teach everyone who lives in your home about how to identify the smell of propane and what to do if it is detected. Some people cannot smell propane due to allergies, tobacco use or medical conditions. It is important to know whether or not you can smell propane to prevent safety hazards in the future.
Odor Loss – Another thing that you do need to be aware of is a phenomenon known as “odor loss,” which can occur in propane gas. Propane can lose its safety odor due to air, rust or water being present inside the propane tank or if there is a leak underground, which can reduce the smell of propane greatly. So even if you detect a faint smell of gas, make sure to respond immediately. You can also purchase a propane gas detector for your home if you are concerned about not being able to smell the propane properly or are worried about odor loss.

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Safe Propane Gas Delivery Services

Columbus Energies provides propane fuel delivery in Taunton and many areas throughout Southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Safety is a top priority for our customers and our staff, which is why we are heavily involved in many different safety programs both locally and nationally. We work hard to always increase the knowledge of our workers to provide propane safety tips and assistance to our customers.

For more propane safety tips or to find out about Columbus Energies propane gas delivery and fuel delivery in Taunton and the surrounding area, give us a call. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff can help you sign up for delivery service, purchase and install propane gas appliances or schedule maintenance and other annual services. You can trust Columbus Energies to provide quality, professional propane gas delivery to your home.

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HVAC expert checking home central AC unit

Seven HVAC Tips For A Smooth Transition From Winter To Spring

April 15, 2024

$HVAC units play a pivotal role in ensuring the comfort and safety of modern building environments. Yet, these indispensable systems are not immune to the challenges of power surges. Such surges, frequently resulting from events like lightning strikes, power outages, or fluctuations in the electrical grid, can unleash a rapid influx of electrical current. This sudden surge can inflict severe damage on vital components of the HVAC system, including the compressor, fan motor, and control board. The repercussions of such damage can range from expensive repairs to the necessity of replacing the entire HVAC unit. Given these risks, implementing surge protectors and adhering to electrical safety best practices to safeguard HVAC systems effectively is paramount. Is Your HVAC System Secured Against Power Surges? Pondering over protecting your HVAC system against power surges often indicates a need for proactive measures. Seek the expertise of a seasoned HVAC technician who is ready to evaluate and enhance your system's resilience against power surges. Their guidance and recommendations will ensure that your HVAC system is well-prepared to withstand the challenges posed by unexpected power surges and outages. Understanding Power Surges: What Are They? A power surge represents an abrupt spike in electrical voltage, surpassing the standard levels within a power supply system. These surges can manifest for various reasons, including sudden disruptions in the electrical current flow. Common triggers for these surges include events like lightning strikes, power outages, or the switching on and off of large electrical appliances, including air conditioners, refrigerators, and elevators. Power surges, often lasting merely a fraction of a second, can nonetheless wreak significant havoc on electrical devices and appliances. The surge's excessive electrical energy overburdens and damages the sensitive electronic components within these devices, potentially leading to malfunctions or total failures. Differentiating Power Surge, Power Outage, and Brownout While power surges, power outages, and brownouts all stem from electrical power supply disturbances, they each describe distinct phenomena: Power Surge: This is a brief, intense increase in electrical voltage, due to lightning strikes, outages, or high-powered equipment. A power surge can potentially damage electronic devices and appliances hence surge protectors are essential to safeguard them from potential damage. Power Outage: This event happens when there's an interruption in the electrical power supply to a location, leading to a total loss of power. Numerous factors, such as severe weather conditions and electrical equipment failure, can trigger power outages or even planned maintenance activities. Brownout: Characterized by a reduction in voltage within the electrical power supply, a brownout manifests as dimming or flickering lights and reduced power to appliances. Causes range from high demand on the power grid to equipment malfunctions or issues within the electrical system of a specific building or area. Don't let power surges damage your HVAC system. Contact Columbus Energies now for professional surge protection solutions and ensure your system's longevity and performance! HVAC Components Vulnerable to Power Surges Here are several parts affected by power surges: HVAC Control Board Often referred to as the system's "brain," the HVAC control board is critical for communication with the thermostat. A power surge can damage this component, disrupting its function. Such damage impairs the HVAC system's ability to regulate temperature effectively, leading to insufficient heating or cooling. This can result in discomfort, especially during periods of extreme temperatures. HVAC Compressor Motor This crucial part of your HVAC system, recognizable as a box with wires protruding, plays a pivotal role in refrigerant compression. It converts low-pressure, cool refrigerant into a high-pressure, heated state. The motor, integral to the compressor, is prone to power surge damage. It consists of numerous wires that transform electrical energy into kinetic energy. A surge can cause these wires to overheat, potentially leading to combustion. Furthermore, a compromised motor affects the compressor's performance, hindering its ability to function efficiently. HVAC Capacitor This essential component, typically oval-shaped, serves as a storage unit for electrical charge, crucial for powering the electrical components in your HVAC system. Vulnerable to power surges, the capacitor can sustain damage when exposed to such events. This damage may result in operational difficulties for your HVAC system. HVAC Relay Switch This switch plays a crucial role in your HVAC system, acting to turn on or off components that require high-voltage power. A key feature of most relay switches is an electrical contactor surrounded by a coil. In the event of a voltage exceeding a specific threshold, as in a power surge, the coil is likely to burn out. This can lead to a broken circuit, causing the relay switch to malfunction. Keep your HVAC system safe from power surges with Columbus Energies' comprehensive surge protection services. Reach out to us today for peace of mind and reliable protection! Preventing Power Surge Damage to Your HVAC System Power surges pose a severe risk to HVAC systems, potentially leading to expensive repairs or replacements. Listed below are several tips to protect your HVAC system from power surge damage: Install Surge Protectors: Placing surge protectors on your HVAC unit and electrical panels offers crucial defense against unexpected power surges. These devices act as a barrier, safeguarding your system. Unplug Appliances During Storms: As a precaution, disconnect your HVAC system and other appliances during thunderstorms or severe weather. This simple action can prevent potential damage from lightning-induced surges. Utilize High-Quality Wiring: Implementing top-tier wiring and components is crucial in safeguarding your HVAC system against power surge damage. For optimal safety and efficiency, it's advisable to have these elements installed by a skilled electrician. Regular HVAC Maintenance: Consistently maintaining your HVAC system is a proactive way to prevent surge-related damage. Key practices include cleaning and replacing air filters, ensuring proper refrigerant levels, and inspecting electrical connections. Install a Whole-House Surge Protector: Consider a whole-house surge protector for comprehensive protection. Installed at your main electrical panel, it shields your entire home, HVAC system included, from power surges, thus securing all your appliances. Ensure your HVAC system's safety and longevity with Columbus Energies' top-notch surge protection services. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and protect your investment! HVAC Power Surge Damage & Warranty Limitations Warranties from HVAC manufacturers typically exclude coverage for power surge damage. Relying on homeowners' insurance can be complex, as proving surge-related damage is often difficult, especially when it accumulates over time. Consequently, homeowners might find themselves responsible for expensive HVAC repairs arising from incidents like lightning strikes, overloaded electrical circuits, or appliance-related issues. Conclusion HVAC systems represent a significant investment crucial for home comfort. Proactive prevention is vital to avoid incurring high costs from power surge damages. Investing in protective measures is a wise choice compared to facing the expense of repairs or replacements. Consult trusted HVAC professionals to ensure your system is well-protected and maintained. Contact Columbus Energies for All Your HVAC Needs Columbus Energies is a premier heating and cooling service provider in Southeastern Massachusetts and the Rhode Island region. Our professionally certified technicians are highly skilled in various HVAC services, including tune-ups, repairs, installations, and replacements. Rely on our expertise for accurate and efficient servicing of your system. As a highly sought-after service provider in the region, we are always prepared to meet your HVAC needs. We pride ourselves on offering the area's most affordable heating and cooling solutions. Columbus Energies is synonymous with quality service and cost-effectiveness. lightening storm and hvac surge protection$