Why Do Propane and Natural Gas Smell So Strong? (Video)

“Hi, my name is Greg Batista here to answer another question from the internet.

GasGuy123 asks: Why does propane or natural gas have that rotten egg smell?

The smell is added on purpose. Natural gas and propane are odorless by themselves, which makes leaks dangerous. To fix that, suppliers add a chemical called mercaptan, which smells like rotten eggs. The odor is strong enough that people can detect it at concentrations as low as one part per billion. This safety measure has prevented countless accidents by giving people an early warning of leaks. In Florida, gas utilities are required by law to odorize fuel before distribution. That stink may be unpleasant, but it’s one of the most important safety features in your home.

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Authoritative references: U.S. Department of Transportation – Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA); American Gas Association safety publications.

The author, Greg Batista, PE, CGC, SI is owner of G. Batista Engineering & Construction and is a nationally-recognized engineer and contractor with more than 35 years of experience and offices in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.