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.
