Understanding Your Propane Tank Gauge: A Simple Guide
Your propane tank gauge is how you keep an eye on your fuel level and know when it’s time to order. Reading the level is simple, but you may need some help if you just moved into a home that uses propane, and you’re not used to it. Here’s how to read your gauge and know when to schedule your next delivery with TJ Propane in Northwest Ohio.
How to Read Your Propane Tank Gauge
Reading the gauge is simple once you know what you’re looking at. Here’s how to do it:
- Lift the dome lid. Open the cover on top of the tank to reveal the gauge.
- Find the needle. The needle points to a number on the dial, usually ranging from 0 to 100.
- Read the percentage. That number is the percentage of propane currently in your tank, not the gallons.
If the needle points to 50, your tank is half full. If it points to 30, you have about 30% of your propane left.
Why Your Tank Is Never Filled to 100%
You might notice that your tank is filled to around 80%. That’s on purpose. Propane expands and contracts as temperatures change, so tanks are filled to about 80% to leave room for that expansion. It’s a built-in safety feature, and it’s completely normal.
Related Post: 4 Signs Your Propane Tank Needs a Refill in Northwest Ohio
When Should You Order Propane?
We recommend placing an order when your tank gauge reads 30%. Ordering at this point gives you a comfortable cushion, so you aren’t scrambling if the weather turns cold or your delivery gets delayed. Waiting until you’re nearly empty puts you at risk of a runout.
After a runout, we can’t just refill the tank. For safety, the system needs a leak check and the pilot lights relit before service is restored, so it can take longer to get your home back up and running. Emergency deliveries may also come with extra fees.
Tips for Checking Your Gauge
- Check your gauge regularly, especially in colder weather.
- Build the habit of checking more often in fall, before the cold months arrive.
- Keep the area around your tank clear of snow, leaves, and debris.
- Sign up for automatic delivery and let us do the work for you.
Related Post: How to Avoid a Propane Run Out in Northwest Ohio
Let TJ Propane Take Care of the Rest
Checking your gauge is easy, but we know you have plenty of other things on your plate. If you’d rather not worry about it at all, ask our team about options that can help keep your tank from running low. We offer automatic delivery and tank monitoring to make your life easier.
We’re proud to serve homeowners across Northwest Ohio, and we’re always happy to answer your questions. Reach out to TJ Propane today to place an order or learn more about our delivery options.