Propane offers and safe and affordable way to heat your home and power your appliances. This makes it the preferred fuel for many homeowners. Knowing how to read the gauge on your propane tank is crucial to keeping it filled and ready to provide power. This guide explains a few key basics. 

Tips for Reading the Propane Tank Gauge

Dial gauges are common on propane tanks. These show a range of numbers that indicate what percentage of your tank is filled. For example, if it reads 35, that means your tank is at 35% capacity. Remember that the gauge will never go above 80% for safety reasons. Propane in the tank is in a liquid form, and this liquid must have room to expand and contract as the temperature around it fluctuates. 

If you want to know the number of gallons left in the tank, you can multiply the tank size by the reading on the gauge. Using the above example, if you have a 500-gallon tank and it's 35% full, you have 175 gallons of gas left. 

When to Have Your Tank Refilled

Don't let your tank dip below 20% capacity. The lower your tank gets, the more air will get into the system. Air inside the tank affects function while also damaging tank components. Because of this, your propane supplier will need to run tests on the tank if the gauge reads 5% or less. 

One of propane's best qualities is that it doesn't have an expiration date. As a result, you can keep your tank filled to 80% without worries about wasted fuel. Consider talking to your supplier about regular delivery so that you don't have to worry about monitoring the gauge as closely. With the right maintenance and repairs, tanks can last as long as 30 years in some cases. 

Scheduling regular propane deliveries with Low Price Gas in Bulverde, TX, ensures your tank never runs dry. Their delivery personnel are known for their promptness and professionalism and will always arrive on time at your home. If you need a new tank, they can help you find the perfect replacement. They also offer repairs and maintenance to keep your system running smoothly for as long as possible. Set up a delivery today by calling (830) 980-2600. You can also visit the website to learn more about their services.