Whether it is the start of the year, the middle of summer, or during the chilly months, cooking is a perennial affair. It stands to reason that for many gas burner users, ensuring that their LPG supply is safe and secure is of paramount concern.
Be wary of where you buy your LPG tanks — there are plenty of illegal refillers out there selling cheaper, counterfeit options that don’t go through the right process to ensure a tank’s safety. While that in itself may not sound like a big deal, dysfunctional LPG cylinders can easily cause house fires and other dangerous kitchen accidents, and the safety of your household should not be something that you risk. Source your LPG only from trusted brands like Solane or other authorized sellers.
Proper storage is also needed to ensure the safety of both the house and the residents living inside. Never hide your LPG tank inside a kitchen cabinet. These cylinders need to be placed in well-ventilated areas to avoid trapping gas particles that can accumulate in the kitchen and pose a risk for fires or explosions. Keep it away from open flame and other heat sources, too, like electric outlets to avoid accidental ignitions. Lastly, avoid placing your tank near flammable materials like cloth or solvents, and from areas that are prone to natural disasters.
Make it a habit to regularly check for leaks. Even a small gas leak, when left untended to, can fill an entire room and the smallest flame can easily ignite that.
To check for leaks, apply soapy water on your LPG cylinder using sponge or spray bottle. Any leak on your tank, even a tiny one, will be able to make the soapy water bubble.
Also check if your hose is still in good condition. Hoses perform best when replaced every two years. Make sure that the regulator is securely attached to the cylinder valve, too. Ask yourself when you last replaced your regulator — it’s recommended to do so 5 years after the manufacturing date.
With proper use and storage, LPGs will continue to fuel home-cooked meals that families can enjoy any day of the week.