A home propane tank can have many uses, including cooking and heating. Accordingly, knowing how to read the tank’s gauge and determine whether it needs a refill is essential. Below is more information about how to read the indicator and why it is necessary for your convenience and safety.

Tips on Reading a Propane Tank’s Gauge

Most gas gauges on propane tanks resemble the fuel gauge in a vehicle. They use a device called a float, which sits inside the container. Propane is a liquid, and the float sits on top of it within the tank, which then sends a reading to the gauge. As you use more gas, the arrow on the indicator will decrease until you refill the tank, or it is empty. 

The reading on the gauge is the percentage of the propane that remains in the tank. As an example, if you have a 500-gallon tank and the gauge reads 80%, you have 400 gallons of propane inside. Even when your tank is full, the indicator will remain under 100%. This is because you must leave space inside the container so that the liquid can expand and contract without issue. 

What Happens if the Tank Runs Out of Gas

If you rely on propane for home heating, running out of gas is a significant inconvenience. It can also pose a health risk if the air makes its way into the tank. In this case, the pilot light for your equipment may go out, or the tank may experience damage because of the air intrusion. In both cases, you’ll need professional assistance to fix the problem and get your equipment working again. 

A quality propane supplier will answer your questions on tank maintenance and other issues. Dousman LP Gas holds such a reputation with local customers. This family-owned and -operated business has an A+ rating with Better Business Bureau®, as well as more than 37 years of industry experience. They assist individuals and companies throughout Waukesha County, WI, and the surrounding area. Call (262) 965-2679 to schedule an appointment. Visit the website for more information on services.