Do You Know How to Read Your Propane Tank Gauge or Shut it Off?

December 12, 2022

Knowing how to read your propane gauge is important for monitoring your fuel level and scheduling timely propane deliveries. Even if you are an automatic delivery customer, it is a good idea to keep an eye on your fuel levels. During periods of especially cold temperatures or if you have more guests than usual, your home’s fuel usage will increase, and monitoring your supply can help ensure you don’t run out of fuel. Stafford Oil & Propane is a reliable provider of propane and heating oil deliveries, as well as repairs, maintenance, and installations for heating equipment. We are the go-to provider of heating and cooling services for the homeowners and businesses of Belknap County and the surrounding areas.

How to Read the Gauge on Your Propane Tank

To read your propane gauge, you should first open the lid of your propane tank to reveal the gauge. The numbers on the gauge display how full the tank is as a percentage. When reading your gauge, keep in mind that propane expands and contracts as temperatures change, so propane tanks are typically filled to about 80% capacity. When the gauge reads 80, it is considered full, and when the gauge is between 40 and 50%, it is considered half-full. If your tank is half full, you should notify Stafford Oil & Propane to schedule a propane delivery. You can conveniently order fuel online through the Stafford Oil & Propane customer portal.

How to Shut Off Your Propane Tank

In the event of an emergency, knowing how to shut off your propane tank can be very important. If you smell propane gas and suspect a gas leak, it is recommended that you shut off your propane tank, but only if it can be safely accessed. The most important thing to do if you suspect a gas leak is to evacuate the area and dial 911 or the phone number of your local fire department to alert them of the situation and send help right away. If you cannot safely access your propane tank, you should allow the fire department to address the situation. If your propane tank can be safely accessed, shutting it off is simple. First, open the tank lid to reveal the shut-off valve. Then, turn the valve to the right or clockwise to stop the flow of propane. If your property has multiple propane tanks, these should be shut off in the same way. If your gas system has been shut off, national safety code requires a qualified professional to test your propane system before it is turned back on.

Knowing how to monitor your propane levels is important to scheduling your fuel deliveries and preventing your heating system from shutting down due to running out of fuel. Additionally, knowing how to shut off your propane tank can be very important in the event of an emergency. Stafford Oil & Propane is the go-to provider of home comfort services in the Belknap County area and strives to keep you safe and comfortable all year long. If you have any questions about propane safety or would like to become a customer, contact us by giving us a call at (603) 524-1480.