5
Both LP and natural gas have an odorant added to aid in detecting a gas leak. Some
people may not physically be able to smell or recognize this odorant. If you are unsure or
unfamiliar with the smell of LP or natural gas, ask the gas supplier. Other conditions, such
as “odorant fade”, which causes the odorant to diminish in intensity, can also hide or
camouflage a gas leak.
DANGER!
NATURAL GAS AND LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM MODELS
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Water heaters utilizing LP gas are
different from natural gas models. A
natural gas water heater will not function
safely on LP gas and vice versa.
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No attempt should ever be made to
convert the water heater from natural
gas to LP gas. To avoid possible
equipment damage, personal injury or
fire, do not connect the water heater to a
fuel type not in accordance with the unit
data plate; propane for propane units
and natural gas for natural gas units.
These units are not certified for any
other fuel type.
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LP appliances should not be installed
below grade (for example, in a basement)
if such installation is prohibited by
federal, state and/or local laws, rules,
regulations or customs.
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Propane or LP gas must be used with
great caution. It is heavier than air and
will collect first in lower areas making it
hard to detect at nose level.
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Before attempting to light the water
heater, make sure to look and smell for
gas leaks. Use a soapy solution to check
all gas fittings and connections. Bubbling
at a connection indicates a leak that must
be corrected. When smelling to detect a
gas leak, be sure to sniff near the floor
also.
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Gas detectors are recommended in LP
and natural gas applications and their
installation should be in accordance with
the detector manufacturer’s
recommendations and/or local laws,
rules, regulations or customs.
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It is recommended that more than one
method, such as soapy solution, gas
detectors, etc., be used to detect leaks in
gas applications.
Notice: If a gas leak is present or suspected:
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Do not
attempt to find the cause yourself.
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Do not
try to light any appliance.
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Do not
touch any electrical switch.
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Do not
use any phone in your building.
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Leave the building immediately and
make sure your family and pets leave
also.
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Leave the doors open for ventilation and
contact the gas supplier, a qualified
service agency or the fire department.
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Stay away from the building until the
service call has been made, the leak is
corrected and a qualified agency has
determined the area to be safe.
