Propane is an excellent energy source for heating homes and cooking. If you own one of the many homes that rely on this environmentally friendly and affordable fuel, it's essential to maintain an adequate supply at all times. Here are some signs to help you know when your tank is running low on fuel.

When to Refill Your Propane Tank

1. Gauge Points to Low

Most propane tanks come with a gauge showing the approximate level of remaining gas inside. If yours doesn’t have one—which is common for smaller-sized tanks— you can have one installed by your propane provider to make it easier to monitor your tank's fuel levels. 

Look at the gauge face to see if the needle is below the halfway mark or toward the full indicator. Typically, the sooner you plan a delivery to refill or replace your tank, the better. While it may seem that 20% is plenty for your home's needs, if it drops much lower, some appliances can start to perform less reliably.

2. Cold Weather

If it's been several months since your home's last propane refill, the tank may not be prepared for the colder temperatures ahead. For this reason, it's recommended to have your tank refilled before the temperatures dip too low to help you avoid emergency outages that can leave your family in the cold. For example, low propane levels can decrease the pressure in your tank until it is insufficient to operate your appliances. Keeping your tank filled appropriately will help you avoid this problem and make sure your home stays warm all winter long.

3. Flames Sputter

When you turn on a propane gas-powered appliance, such as the stove, you may notice sputtering or flickering flames. This issue may be caused by a blocked or misaligned burner cap. To fix the problem, remove the burner cover and clean or realign it as necessary once the stove surface has cooled. If the sputtering continues, there is likely insufficient fuel in the tank to start and run the equipment smoothly. Rather than taking the risk of running the tank dry, seek a replacement immediately.

When it’s time to get a propane refill, turn to Tri-County Propane in Loveland, OH. They are a trusted source of reliable propane gas services, such as gas tank repairs, sales, and rentals, for homes and businesses in and around Clermont County. For prompt propane delivery to make sure your tank never runs out, call (513) 583-1868 or get in touch online.