Propane is a common source of energy that has many uses. Propane tanks are environmentally friendly, require little maintenance, and can last for a long period.
But the most common complaint among propane tank users is the noise. It’s not normal for your to make weird noises. The noise could an indication of a leak(hissing), the propane tank being overfilled(humming), and a loose or broken valve(clicking). It may even include other issues apart from these.
While propane is more or less a safe gas you need to take precautionary measures in case of unsafe conditions.
Some of the easiest ways to get rid of the weird noise from your propane tank are to; check out the bleeder valve, inspect the hose, replace the regulator, and cut back the flow of propane.
In this article, we will discuss this in detail and a few other methods to help you fix the clicking, hissing, and humming noise from your propane tank.
Is Your Propane Tank Making Weird Noises?
Humming, hissing, and clicking each of these noise has its solution and problems. However, hearing a hissing noise from your propane tank the first time the line is turned on is no possible cause for alarm. In most instances, strange noises from your propane tank are not always normal.
And the best line of action is to consult a professional when you begin to hear these weird noises. Except that you are a pro yourself, the treacherous nature of any inflammable gas can present a lot of risks. If not fixed properly.
The smell of gas is usually the first indication of a problem.
Propane Tank Making a Hissing Noise
If the hissing noise from your propane tank persists a few seconds after opening it, then there may be a leak. To remedy this problem, turn off the valve along with any appliance that your propane tank powers.
If you still smell the propane gas once you have shut the valve then it is possible the exterior is damaged or the valves are faulty.
Another possible cause of the hissing noise in your propane tank is an open valve.
Solutions
Inspect the Valve Relief Cover
Inspect the valve relief cover, if realize the safety covers pop off then it is a sign that the valve is open. However, if there is a leak you should immediately turn off the gas.
Check Out the Bleeder Valve
Sometimes the delivery technicians may not close the bleeder valve properly after refilling your propane tank. So the bleeder valve can cause a hissing noise in your propane tank. This usually occurs when the bleeder isn’t properly closed.
An easy fix is to turn off the bleeder valve in a clockwise direction. This will help close the bleeder properly. You should remove any debris from the bleed valve. If it is the cause of the hissing noise.
In case your filled propane tank is in the hot sun, spray with water from your garden hose onto the entire surface of your propane tank. Sometimes the build-up of pressure in your inside propane tank can cause the safety valve relief to open.
The water will cool off the tank, lower the pressure and allow the relief valve to close normally. You can call up your propane supplier or the emergency services for assistance if the leak persists regardless of all attempts to fix it.
Inspect the Hose
To identify whether the hose is the cause of the hissing noise or not, take out the hose and submerse it into a bucket of soapy water. If you notice the formatting of bubbles, then is plausible there is a hole in the line. You can patch the hole, but it would be better if you consider replacing the hose.
Similar Read:
How to fix a propane tank making a hissing noise
Propane Tank Making Humming or Gurgling Noise
If you hear low gurgling rumble noise or humming noise anytime you turn on the gas, then is likely your tank has been overfilled .your propane tank is overfilled it will exert a lot of pressure on the regulator and decrease outflow from your tank.
If you don’t get enough propane at your destination; low heat, weak flames, and discolored pilot lights then it’s likely your propane tank was overfilled.
However, we do not advise you to try to drain out your propane tank yourself. You can return your propane tank to the retailer if it is a portable unit. However, if the problem is in a permanent tank you need to contact your propane supplier. Discharging the propane can be very dangerous, do not attempt it yourself unless you’re a pro.
In most cases, the regulator might be the sole cause of the humming noise in your propane tank. Nearly all propane appliance regulators have a diaphragm rubber which controls the amount of fuel to be allowed into the control valves.
If your propane tank gets overfilled or it is a hot day outside, is likely the rubber diaphragm will vibrate. The vibrations will resonate and induce a humming noise when it gets to a certain level. Even though this noise is irritating, it is completely safe and will stop after some time.
Another cause of the humming noise in your propane tank is trapped air. Sometimes a pocket of air can get trapped within the hose. As a result humming noise is created as the propane rushes around the air bubble.
Although the air bubbles are not dangerous, the humming noise can be extremely loud and irritating. However, you may get into the peril of becoming accustomed to that particular noise and ignoring other problems when they arise.
Solutions
Cut Back the Flow
Limiting the flow of propane through the regulator a little bit will help remedy the problem.
A simple line purge found in the owner’s manual of your propane tank will remedy this problem.
Replace the Regulator
If you have tried all these procedures and the noise persists you can replace the regulator with a new one.
Propane Tank Making a Clicking Noise
If you hear low but continuous clicking noise from your propane tank, it means the valve is working perfectly. But if the clicking noise gets louder and faster then you need to fix it or replace your propane tank valve completely.
Loud clicking noise from your propane tank is an indication of a problem, So you need to figure out the issue with the valve straight away before you start using your propane tank again.
Occasionally the valve may not be working properly due to improper fastening of screws onto the tank.
Another reason why your propane tank may make loud and fast clicking noise is a broken valve. If you suspect the valve is broken. You need to look out and confirm the valve is broken and not the area the valve is fitted in.
Another reason for the clicking noise in your propane tank is temperature. If your propane tank is outside on a hot day, the heat can cause the tank to expand. The metal begins to contract when the temperature of the metal drops.
The temperature variations within the different components of the tank are not uniform. The different rates of contraction of the various metal components of your tank cause stress and clicking of metal parts. This is normal and will away after some time.
Usually, the parts of propane cylinders are welded together and do not contract or expand. However, it may be caused by how the tank is mounted or attached. It can also occur as a result of the gas lines expanding or contracting with their brackets.
Solutions
If the valve is not properly screwed in the best cause of action is to take out the valve and re-screw it properly onto the tank. In case you can’t do it, you can consult a professional to help you out.
If you are certain the valve is broken and not your tank, the need to replace the valve. Ensure you buy the right valve size for your propane tank.
The ball bearing inside the outlet of your propane tank can also be the cause of the clicking noise. When you hear this noise, you need to inspect for leakages to help prevent any runaway leaks.
Conclusion
Hearing strange noises from your propane tank can be worrisome as it can cause a lot of harm if overlooked. With the above procedures at hand, you can easily get rid of the strange noise from your propane tank. Becoming conversant with these potential issues will help keep you informed about your propane tank.
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