Propane tanks can be used to power water heaters, dryers, pool heaters, fireplaces, grills, and more, making them a versatile yet necessary part of daily life. However, most tanks are solid colors and tend to be heavy regardless of their contents. Therefore, it may be difficult to determine when you need to refill a tank in advance. To help, consider some of the following tips. 

4 Signs You Need to Refill Your Propane Tank

1. Sputtering Flames

When you have a strong supply of propane, the appliance will light with ease. However, if you notice that the flames are sputtering when you try to turn on your appliance or light a grill, it's likely due to a low supply of propane. Always check the pilot light first to make sure it's not another issue, but if you can hear the sputtering noise you're probably due for a refill.

2. Low Gauge Readings

Some propane tanks come with gauges to indicate how much propane is left inside the tank. While these are mostly fitted on residential tanks, some newer models of barbeque propane tanks do have them. 

You can also install a gauge yourself to make it easier to know when you'll need a refill. There are even options out today that are compatible with your smartphone. 

3. Lighter Tank

Propane tanks are heavy by nature, but they're even heavier when they're full. If you start to notice the tank getting increasingly lighter, the propane is getting lower. Full tanks are pretty hard to carry, so if you pick up yours with ease you might want to consider getting them refilled. If the tank still feels a bit heavy, you might have some time left before you need more. 

4. Lack of Ignition

Although there may be several reasons that your grill won't light, one of the most common is empty propane tanks. Make sure that there's nothing else preventing the ignition and listen for the gentle hiss of the tank. If you can hear the sounds emitting from the fuel line, but nothing else happens, the culprit is your tank.

When you need your propane tanks refilled, turn to the professionals at Martindale Guadalupe Gas Company in  Martindale, TX. This locally owned and operated gas supplier has been proudly serving Caldwell County since 1947. In addition to refilling smaller tanks, they also offer tank installation and plumbing services. They even offer gas delivery for added convenience. To learn more about their products, visit them online, or call (512) 357-6497 to schedule a refill today.