Why Gas Smells Stronger When Your Tank Is Low

What’s That Smell?

Have you ever noticed that your gas stove or heater starts to smell funny when your propane tank is almost empty? That smell is called mercaptan. It’s a special chemical that gas companies add to help keep you safe.

Why It Smells Stronger When Tank Is Low

Natural gas and propane have no smell on their own! That would be dangerous because you couldn’t tell if there was a leak. The mercaptan is added to give gas that “rotten egg” smell.

When your tank gets low:
- The lighter gas gets used up first
- The heavier smelly stuff (mercaptan) gets left behind
- This makes the smell stronger even though there’s less gas

Is It a Leak?

No! A stronger smell when your tank is low is normal.

A real leak would:
- Smell strong all the time, not just when your tank is low
- Come from a specific spot
- Not change when you add more gas to your tank

What To Do

If you notice the smell getting stronger:
1. Check your tank gauge
2. Get a refill before it gets too low
3. Enjoy less stinky gas!

Remember: The smell is there to keep you safe, but a stronger smell when your tank is low is completely normal.