I called the local company. They said that likely was normal and some sort of neoprene seal was wearing out but when fully tightly open or tightly closed it should be fine. In fact I should just always leave it open unless I smelled gas in the house and that turning it on and off is what causes that part to wear. They said they could come out ($39) and do a soak test to see if there was a leak. I asked 'what if there was a leak' and they said likely I'd need to use up the gas then replace a part. I guess if it was bad enough the part would need to be replaced right away.....he was not too concerned about that thought and did not elaborate on what that would cost, how to get the gas out and what it would all cost. He did not seam too concerned there was a problem but said they could check it.

I have no idea whats normal or not or what to do. I do not want to over react nor under react. Should I just crank it open hard like he said and watch the gauage for a few days. He said the leak could be so minscule (if at all) that I may not ever notice the gauage going down plus it fluctuates with the weather. Is there a way I can if its leaking when fully open myself. What is this soak test? This is all relatively new to us?

the shhh sound is the line refilling with gas. did you smell the LP at the tank or in the house? if in the house it could be just because the pilot was not lit yet. if at the tank, it could well be it is leaking around the valve. get some warm soapy water and pour it liberally over the valve and all fittins. it will bubble up if there is a leak.

as to them saying to wait until it is empty, that is par for the course. they don't want to have to change the tank out unless it is a dangerous leak. our relief valve was leaking a couple years ago and the gas company siad i could either wait until i was empty so they could replace it, or they could haul the tank in to teh shop to pump it down for repair. come to find out it was just a little loose due to an aged o ring, i tightened the screw and it has never leaked again. next time it does, i will have them swap out the tank.

I'll try the soapy method. I do not mind waiting until the tank is empty if a part needs replacement so long as it is safe. He said I must open the value and then turn it on HARD....ie an extra half turn.