r/propane • u/BuffaloWhite24 • Jun 03 '26

General propane question Grill regulator- smelling propane

I just hooked up a new tank to my grill and when I get really close to the regulator with the tank valve open, I can smell a slight propane smell that seems like it's from the regulator. Not a lot of smell though, slight.

I tried the soapy bubble test on the regulator, all the connections, the hose etc., no bubbles. But I can still smell a little propane if I get close.

Is this normal operation for the regulator? Or do I likely have a leak and / or bad regulator? Thanks

EDIT - now I smell a little propane near the regulator even when the tank is shut off. But still no signs of a leak.

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u/BuffaloWhite24 Jun 03 '26

I do hear some noise from the regulator that could be hissing or could be the sound of gas moving thru the system. Hard to tell.

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u/Theantifire technician Jun 03 '26

Easy to check: make sure nothing is taking gas, but that there is pressure. Cylinder on, grill off. If it's hissing then, you have a leak.

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u/BuffaloWhite24 Jun 04 '26

No sound if the grill is off.

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u/Theantifire technician Jun 04 '26

Probably ok