The nature of gas is that when it leaks, it does not cause explosions. However, when leaking gas comes into contact with high temperatures or sparks from devices such as light bulbs or lighters, it significantly increases the risk of fire and explosion.
The incidents of gas explosions are becoming more frequent, which seriously affects consumers and raises concerns. So, what causes household gas cylinders to explode? The article below will explain the reasons for gas cylinder explosions in your home. Please refer to it.
When Can a Gas Cylinder Explode?
There are many causes of gas cylinder explosions, with a notable reason being gas leaks during cooking.
According to Pompiers.fr, gas cylinders can explode anywhere when they come into contact with flames or when the ambient temperature is high and the pressure inside the cylinder reaches 50 bar.
Gas cylinders indoors typically have a pressure of 7.5 bar at an ambient temperature of 15 degrees Celsius, increasing to 10 bar when the outdoor temperature is between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius. Notably, when gas cylinders are exposed to sunlight outdoors, the pressure inside can quickly rise from 10 to 50 bar, posing a risk of explosion.
Additionally, another cause of gas cylinder explosions is due to gas leaks accumulating in the kitchen, which can explode if ignited, especially when the user is cooking.
Causes of Gas Cylinder Explosions
Using Old or Poor-Quality Gas Cylinders and Stoves
Using gas cylinders that are illegally refilled, of poor quality, past their expiration date, or using old gas stoves with incorrectly installed burner heads can lead to explosions. Although this is rare, to ensure safety, always choose genuine, high-quality gas cylinders and maintain a clean stove for optimal usage.
Poor-quality gas cylinders are one of the reasons for explosions.
Leaking Hoses Connecting the Gas Cylinder to the Stove
After prolonged use, gas hoses can become bent, twisted, chewed by rodents, or may have aged and cracked, causing gas to leak outside and increasing the risk of fire and explosion. Therefore, you should regularly check the gas hoses during use to ensure safety.
Not Turning Off the Gas After Use or Incorrectly Closing the Valve
Many people have the habit of not turning off the gas valve immediately after use or closing the valve incorrectly, which can leave gas trapped in the hose, leading to gas leaks without their knowledge.
Therefore, always turn off the gas after use. To do this correctly, first close the cylinder valve, then wait for the flame to burn off the remaining gas in the hose before turning off the stove to its original position.
Not Paying Attention to the Stove During Use
Due to a lack of attention during cooking, the wind may blow, or water may spill onto the stove, causing the flame to go out. Forgetting to turn off the stove can also lead to overheating and continuous gas release without combustion, posing a danger.
Additionally, placing items such as paper, rags, or plastic bottles near the stove can cause the wind to blow directly onto the stove, igniting these items and increasing the risk of fire and explosion.
Therefore, keep items away from the stove, placing the gas cylinder at least 1 to 1.5 meters away from it. Always pay attention to the stove to avoid sudden extinguishing of the flame or fire spreading to other items.
Shaking the Gas Cylinder
Most people shake the gas cylinder to check the remaining gas level. However, this is dangerous; excessive shaking can cause an explosion. Instead, families should invest in a gas level measuring device to know the remaining gas in the cylinder.
Worn Rubber Hoses
Users should regularly check the gas hoses from the cylinder to the kitchen appliances, especially the rubber seals at the connection points of the hoses.
This elastic material can oxidize over time, leading to possible gas leaks.
Additionally, ensure that the hose is not blocked, as this could create pressure and lead to leaks.
Not Knowing How to Handle Unexpected Situations
If you smell gas in the kitchen, you need to immediately turn off the gas valve, open all doors to allow gas to escape, and lower the room temperature. Then, call your gas supplier or emergency services for assistance and advice.
Always ensure that no sparks are generated, such as from electrical devices, matches, or phones, in this situation.
Note: Regularly check the connection hoses between the gas cylinder and the stove, always choose high-quality gas cylinders, and keep the stove clean during use. Always turn off the gas cylinder immediately after use.
Important Tips for Using Gas
Choose high-quality gas stoves with clear origins, and opt for stoves with safety features such as flame failure devices and overheat protection relays.
Install gas stoves in well-ventilated areas, avoiding direct drafts, and do not place them in damp or corrosive environments. The stove should be at least 15 cm away from walls and at least 1.5 meters away from any overhead items.
Gas cylinders must be placed upright when in use. The storage area should be well-ventilated and easily visible. Gas cylinders should be kept away from heat sources and areas prone to sparks (outlets, switches, electrical devices) by at least 1.5 meters.
The gas hose between the cylinder and the stove must be airtight; after installation, it’s best to check for leaks with soapy water. The hose should not exceed 2 meters in length and should be chosen with a steel core for protection.
Avoid using pots with excessively large bases on mini gas stoves as flames may engulf the gas cylinder, which is very dangerous.
Do not use very old stoves because rust and food residue can block the gas hose, valves, and burners.
Avoid using refillable or repurposed gas cylinders as these often lack proper regulation, and illegally produced cylinders of poor quality are sold to consumers.
Place the gas cylinder lower than the stove, and do not lay it on its side or upside down. Replace hoses and gas lines every 3 to 5 years of use.
Avoid keeping gas cylinders in basements, hidden, or poorly ventilated areas. Be cautious of marketing for unregulated gas devices and regularly check and maintain your gas stove, gas cylinder, valves, and hoses. Remember to turn off the gas valve after cooking.
