looking for a LPG leak detector, any recommendatio

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Russianwolf

Russianwolf

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Joined
Jul 13, 2007
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5,690
Location
Martinsburg, WV, USA.
In November of 2006 we had a 100 gal LPG tank installed at the same time that we installed a LPG ventfree fireplace. We also use LPG for cooking. I had to cranck the heater up in October to empty the tank so we wouldn't have to pay a rental fee on the tank (had to use a full tank withon one year). So they refilled it in November 2007. Well, we had to have it filled AGAIN in February (the 13th). I looked at the guage on the tank a day or so after they filled it (but before turning the firplace back on) and it read 80%, which I understand is as full as you are supposed to fill a tank. Went out this past Friday and it read 65%. Today it reads 60%. I had asked them to check for leaks before refilling the tank, but the guy didn't enter our house at all and didn't speak with either me or my wife when he made the delivery.

I am concerned that there is a leak somewhere, but the only place I can get any whiff of propane is at the tank itself. It smells similar to the exhaust of a propane powered forklift which I used to drive. I'm sick of asking them to check and them to tell me that they'll charge $100+ if they come and there's no leak. So I'm looking for a sniffer to buy. Are any of the $30 ones any good?

So to recap:
Nov06-Nov07 = 100gal
Nov07-Feb08 = 100gal
13Feb08-22Feb08 = ~25gal

What says you? Do you think there's a leak?
 
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I use LPG-- we have a 500 gal tank in the back yard.
This might sound to easy-----spary bottle with soapy water--if there's a leak it will blow bubbles.
 
Before I spent money on a sniffer, I'd mix up some liquid dish detergent and water (I'm guessing here, but make it 'thick' - about 5 parts water to one part detergent). Take a paint brush and 'paint' this solution on any joint you can see. If there is a leak you'll see foam in just a few seconds.

If you do this, you might want to wash the solution off with plain water when you're done. I never have, but then everything I've done is inside out of the weather.
 
I have always used an acid brush with soap and water. I have a small plastic bottle with a screw on cap add a few drops dish soap and fill with water, the container may hold 1/2 cup total. I keep this in my plumbing tool box. Just mix it up and brush it on. Watch for bubbles to form.
 
GUYS, I DON'T WANT TO BLOW UP MY HOUSE!!!!

I'll try the soap and water when I get home tonight. The gas has to be going somewhere, that little 30000 BTU heater can be burning it that fast, we never turn it up passed 2 on a scale of 1-8. It might be on for 10 minutes each hour.

On a side note. My Dad, may he rest in peace, once used his lighter to see what was leaking under our car. Anyone want to buy a slightly singed Volkwagon Beetle?
 
Originally posted by Jarheaded

I would probably try using a match first, just for dramatic effect[}:)].
Click to expand...


<said with tongue firmly planted in cheek>

Johnny;

That's why you were accepted into the corps, The Army requires intelligent recruits. :D;)
 
Ugly, mean and nasty. Besides, you have to remember, it was me and my brother joining at the same time. One of us is too much for most. [}:)][}:)] The happiest ones to see us go were the local police....:D
 
And you thought that I had problems Muddy, check out what Andrew wants to do to it. I like this guy, he has potential.[}:)][}:)]:) And yes, in our own minds and many others, the legend was set a long time ago and we strive hard to live up to it.:)
 
Yes Johnnie I still stand by my statement. You see, Andrew will be out of harms way standing off with his .45, you on the other hand want to stand there with a lit match. You do give credence to the old saying,"If you're gonna be dumb, then you better be tuff" ;)
 
Once again, I will refer back to my training and experience. I have seen the devil and am still here. It's not that I want to stand there with a lit match, I would just be compelled to do it and see what happens. Someday you will understand, or not.:)
 
Mike, I just purchased a 30,000 BTU heater for my shop. The manual that came with it says that a 20 lb. cylinder of propane will give 14 hours of burning time at full throttle. Maybe this guide will help you determine whether you really do have a leak or are just using the gas.
 
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