Community Forums

gator67 · 12-30-2008, 07:39 AM

We have an LP gas odor around the stove. We have used a portable LP gas detector, and soapsuds to look for a leak, but there does not appear to be one. I know that ethyl mercaptan is added to LP Gas so the odor would be detectable. I also understand that the amount of ethyl mercaptan varies. Does the ethyl mercaptan accumulate to the point where it can be detected even when there is no gas leak? Could there be another explanation for the odor?

gator67 · 12-30-2008, 07:39 AM

We have an LP gas odor around the stove. We have used a portable LP gas detector, and soapsuds to look for a leak, but there does not appear to be one. I know that ethyl mercaptan is added to LP Gas so the odor would be detectable. I also understand that the amount of ethyl mercaptan varies. Does the ethyl mercaptan accumulate to the point where it can be detected even when there is no gas leak? Could there be another explanation for the odor?

UFO Pilot · 12-30-2008, 09:05 AM

I wouldn't rule out sewer gases, they sometimes smell like propane leaks.

RV Wizard · 12-31-2008, 12:22 AM

I would recommend you do an LP drop down leak test on the entire system. This will verify if you do or do not have a leak.
I am sure you checked the pilot to be sure it is off or lit.
Yes, the ethyl mercaptan if accumulated in raw amounts will leave an odor for a period of time. For this to happen, there must have been a leak at one time.
There are other possibilities that can cause similar odors; batteries off gassing badly is another one.

LD · 12-31-2008, 04:33 AM

There was a slight, elusive odor of propane around my stove, too; the problem turned out to be a defective oven thermostat that was leaking just enough "gas" to be detected. Any propane leak is dangerous; I suggest checking the oven thermostat. Have a pressure test done after any propane repair.

Groveite · 01-05-2009, 05:04 PM

The propane line going into our oven had worked loose on our Cougar(or was always somewhat loose according to the boss who is always right) and after a month of hearing about the odor I happened to see the burner flame where it was not supposed to be....AT the FITTING! . Tightened, soap tested and 30,000 miles later still works fine with no odor.....Worth a careful look-see at least.
Ian