How to Tell If Your Propane Tank Is Empty

Propane is a versatile, clean, safe fuel used in many Central CA homes, but it’s important to learn basic propane safety and appropriate tank usage to ensure you don’t face an emergency runout. Keep reading to learn how to tell if your propane tank is empty or full from the experts at Red Triangle.

How Long Does a Tank of Propane Last?

Unfortunately, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all method of determining how long a tank of propane will last. There are several factors that will influence this answer, including the size of your residential propane tank, what you use propane to fuel, the size of your home, your climate, and how often you use propane appliances in your day-to-day life.

The best way to determine how long a propane tank lasts as it relates to your home is to look back at your usage history to calculate the time between refills.

Check the Propane Tank Gauge

Many tanks come with gauges installed to make figuring out your propane levels simple. Typically, gauges look similar across different types of propane tanks and are described as circular dials. The numbers on the gauge represent the percentage of propane in your tank, with an 80% reading meaning that your tank is full to leave room for expansion. If your gauge reads 30% or below, it’s time to schedule a refill as soon as possible.

• Above ground tanks: The gauge in these tanks is typically found under a lid at the top of the tank.
• Underground tanks: These gauges are located near the fill pipe.
• Portable cylinders: Cylinders used for grills and similarly sized propane-powered appliances often don’t include gauges. If they do include a gauge, it’s usually located next to the valve at the top of the cylinder.

How to Check Your Levels Without a Gauge

For 100-lb. propane tanks and smaller sizes, there is a chance the tank will come without a gauge. Here are two ways you can check the propane level without one:

1. Weigh it on a scale: Identify the weight of your tank without fuel in it, also known as the tare weight. The tare weight is typically written in the upper right-hand corner of the tank collar or on the side of the tank. Subtract the weight of the tank from the tare weight to determine how much propane remains.
2. Pour warm water down the side: If there is propane in your tank, it will absorb the heat from the water. Pour warm water down the side and touch the areas with water with your hands. The tank will feel cool where propane still exists and will give you a better sense of how much is left.

What to Do If You’ve Run Out of Propane

Depending on the type in question, here’s what you should do.

• Portable cylinders: Consider a cylinder refill or exchange from a local business that provides them.
• Permanent tanks: If you find your in-home propane system has run out of fuel, please take these steps immediately:
  1. Turn off all propane appliances and the main gas supply.
  2. Contact Red Triangle at 559-485-4320.
  3. Do not attempt to restart or refill your tank without a professional.
  4. One of our certified technicians will come out to inspect your system for leaks or damage before refilling and restarting your system.

We must complete a leak test to ensure everything is working correctly after a run-out!

Related Post: Why Having a Local Propane Company Matters

Avoid Runouts with Automatic Delivery

Never fear running out of propane in the future when you sign up for automatic residential propane delivery with Red Triangle Oil. We’ll keep track of your propane levels for you and will schedule a delivery when you need it, not when you’re out of fuel. We’re here for all of your propane safety related questions. Whether you’re wondering how to tell if your home propane tank is empty or you simply need a refill, our team is here to help. Contact us today!