Propane is one of the most affordable and convenient alternatives for people who do not have access to a municipal natural gas utility. It is a safe, clean-burning fuel, and it’s easy to lease a propane tank to provide furnace heat, hot water, and cooking gas. However, it is vital to have the tank filled regularly. Below are some of the consequences of letting your propane supply reach empty. 

4 Consequences of Letting Your Propane Tank Reach Empty

1. Your Furnace and Appliances Stop Working

If your tank runs out of propane, your appliances that run on gas may stop working. Your furnace will stop keeping the house warm, and the water heater will shut down and limit hot water for bathing and dishes. Your stove and oven won't ignite, so you're left using a microwave for cooking dinner. You'll also likely have problems with your dishwasher, washing machine, and clothes dryer.

2. Your Pipes May Freeze

If the house gets cold enough, any uninsulated pipes could freeze. Not only will you not have hot water, but you might not have any water at all. Worse, if the ice expands enough to cause pipes to burst, you could have issues with flooding, water damage, and mold growth in your home.

3. Your Pilot Lights Extinguish

When the propane runs out, the pilot lights on your furnace and water heater extinguish. This could create a dangerous situation once you have the tank refilled. Relighting the pilot flame can be dangerous if you are not familiar with the process. You must be very careful to follow correct ignition procedures to avoid fires or potential explosions.

4. You Must Pay for a Leak Test

After an interruption in service—even for just an out-of-gas call—the homeowner is required to have a qualified service technician run a leak test to ensure that the system is safe and meets all National Fuel Gas Code requirements. This can often be an added cost onto your monthly utility bill, and it requires you to schedule time to be at home for the technician to address the issue.

To avoid any hassle, make sure you don't run out of gas. For reliable propane gas delivery, contact Brotherton Propane in West Plains, MO. They are locally owned and have served clients in and around Howell County for more than 40 years. They lease propane tanks of numerous sizes, and they also sell propane fireplaces, space heaters, and water heaters. Visit their website to reach out to the on the Web or call (417) 256-5067 to schedule service.