How Do I Check Propane Levels in My Tank?

If you are a Hocon “will-call” propane customer (that is, if you schedule your own propane deliveries rather than letting us do it using automatic delivery), one of the most important tasks you have is to monitor how much propane is in your tank throughout the winter.

The question is, do you know how to do it?

Reading a propane tank gauge is actually very easy: simply look for a round dial that looks like a speedometer marked with the numbers 0 to 95 somewhere on or near the top of the tank (see photo).

One thing to keep in mind, though, is that a propane tank is never filled to 100 of its maximum capacity; about 20 percent of the tank must remain empty to allow the gas to expand as temperatures change (this number drops to 15 percent for underground propane tanks, since the ground insulates the tank to keep temperatures relatively consistent). A “full” 320-gallon tank, therefore, only contains about 256 gallons of propane (for a complete list of capacity conversions for common tank sizes, see the chart below).

The most important thing about reading your propane gas gauge, though, is to remember to schedule your propane delivery when the tank is no less than one-quarter full – especially when temperatures are low or dropping. That will give us enough time to get to you before you run out of gas – a hassle and expense you definitely want to avoid.

If you do experience a propane run-out, don’t panic – call Hocon for emergency propane service. We will inspect your propane equipment and perform your mandatory leak and pressure test, then get your tank refilled and ready to go.

How many gallons of propane do you have left?

For reliable propane gas delivery in Hocon’s Connecticut service area, trust the pros at Hocon Gas. Contact us today to learn more, or to schedule your propane delivery.