Hello everyone. I have a problem in the closet where my water heater is, It has to do with the smell of what my wife thinks is propane. I don't think so. It smells like the *exhaust* gases to me. Either way, I can't find the problem. Can anyone tell me how to tell the difference between the smell of propane and the smell of exhaust gases? Thing is, this problem has been going on for over a month. At first notice, thinking this smell was propane, I sprayed soapy water around all the connections in the propane line at the water heater, but found nothing leaking. It's not a real strong smell, but easily detectable. I really don't think it's propane, but I need some way of actually determining if it is or not. Frankly, in the closet itself, it's very strong, and would probably have exploded by now if it's propane:D But given it's been going on a month.. well..that's why I'm here. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

I have a 5 year old 50 gallon whirlpool gas water heater installed by Lowes. It makes loud banging noises when heating. I drained the tank and flushed the sediment out last year. Prior to that it had never been flushed. I can try flushing it again but have doubts it would help. Should I call a plumber? Is there anything else I can do to save this thing? Think I paid $1300 for this new. Thanks.