Propane Heater Dangers

A common propane heater.

Although not nearly as common as natural gas heaters, a propane burner is an efficient and cheap way to a heat home. Like other fossil fuel gases, propane poses several dangers if not properly installed and maintained. Most risks of a propane heater come from the flammable nature of propane and the byproducts of combustion.

Identification

Propane deposits do not usually occur in nature but are found mixed in with natural gas, according to the Energy Information Administration. When a company finds natural gas, they pipe it to a plant which then isolates propane and butane from natural gas. Propane is transported as a liquid because it condenses many times when pressurized. In 1912, Dr. Walter Snelling discovered propane mixed in with liquefied petroleum.

Types

The types of propane heater dangers usually come in two varieties: explosive danger and asphyxiation. These are usually caused by a propane leak. Propane is a fossil fuel and can ignite just like any other gaseous fuel such as natural gas and butane. In order to ignite, a propane and air mixture must be between 2.2 and 9.6 percent propane, according to Propane101.com. A heater can ignite nearby flammable chemicals due radiant heat. Faulty installations are a common source of leaks.

Effects

The effects of propane heater dangers can be lethal in the right conditions. Propane intoxication will cause unconsciousness fast enough to prevent remediation and self-help measures, according to International Industrial Gases Limited. The explosive power of propane needs little examination. Flames can cause severe burns and damage property. Explosion of nearby chemicals depends highly on the material near the flame.

Considerations

The size and scope of effects from a faulty propane heater can vary drastically depending on the size of your home. The smaller a room, the quicker the danger of a propane leak becomes apparent. When oxygen levels fall below 8 to 10 percent, the danger of a propane leak increases exponentially and can cause immediate unconsciousness, according to International Industrial Gases Limited.

Prevention/Solution

Because propane does not possess an odor, companies include an odoriferous compound such as sulfur to alert people to leaks, reports Blueflamegas.net. A few preventative measures can ensure your safety and those around you in case you suspect a propane heater malfunction. If you smell gas, get everyone out of the house and use a cellphone to call for help, electric devices such as a land-line phone can cause sparks which ignite propane. Also, learn how to turn off your propane tank valve and where it is located.

Misconceptions

Propane101 reports that despite the common image of an orange fire, this actually an indication of propane heater damage. A propane heater flame should burn blue; orange and yellow flames are indication of the propane heater not burning enough propane and you should notify your propane technician or gas company. Carbon monoxide has no odor, even though natural gas does. The best way to prevent CO poisoning is to frequently have your propane heater inspected.

References

• Carbon Monoxide
• Asphyxiation Danger
• Blueflamegas.net

Resources

• Propane