What is a common symptom of a propane leak?

A common symptom of a propane leak is the odor of rotten eggs. This distinct smell is intentionally added to propane, which is otherwise odorless, to help detect leaks quickly and effectively. This safety measure is crucial because propane is highly flammable, and identifying a leak promptly can prevent dangerous situations, including fires or explosions.

While increased pressure readings can indicate various issues in a propane system, they do not specifically signal a propane leak. A hissing noise might suggest gas is escaping, but it’s not as definitive or easily detectable as the odor. Cold surfaces on equipment may indicate insufficient heat transfer or refrigerant issues but do not directly correlate with propane leaks. The rotten egg odor serves as the most reliable and immediate warning signal for anyone using propane appliances.