If you recently purchased a propane-powered home or are new to propane equipment, you may wonder how often you can expect to refill your tank. Knowing when to schedule propane delivery can save you from an unexpected fuel shortage. Here are tips to help you determine how often to call your propane supplier for a refill:
Learn the Size of Your Tank
The size of your propane tank versus how much gas your combined appliances use determines how often you need a gas refill. Depending on the size of your house and propane appliances, your propane tank could be between 200 to 1000 gallons or more.
Ask your propane tank provider how many gallons of gas your propane tank can hold. Then approximate how much propane each of your appliances consumes. You can have your propane supplier check your tank and appliances to give you an estimate of when you can expect to run out of fuel.
Know Your Area’s Heating Degree Days
Heating degree days measure how hot or cold an area is and give a number based on the extremity of the temperatures. The lower the temperatures, the higher the number of heating degree days. Once a certain temperature is reached, most homeowners will turn on their heaters. A high number of heating degree days indicates increased energy use. If someone lives in an area with a higher number of heating degree days, they may be more likely to need a faster propane refill.
Understand K-factor
The K-factor is a number that measures your rate of propane gas consumption. The lower the K-factor, the faster your gas consumption, and vice versa. Combined with your degree days, K-factor tells you how many gallons of propane you consume. If your K-factor is 7, you get 7 degree days per gallon.
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If you know your K-factor and degree days, you can estimate your gas usage for a particular day. The more accurate your estimation, the easier it is to determine how often to refill your propane tank. Your K-factor depends on your home’s size, insulation levels, and energy efficiency.
Read Your Tank Gauge Periodically
Most propane tanks have a gauge that displays the amount of propane remaining in the tank. If your propane tank does not have a gauge, you can buy one from a propane supplier. Check the propane gauge regularly to verify you are not running low on fuel.
Local propane suppliers often have plans where they will monitor and refill your propane supply when you are low. If this is an option where you live, you can leave the refueling to the professionals. If you do not have this option, make sure you schedule a delivery with your gas provider once your propane gauge needle points to red.
Find a Propane Supplier for Scheduled Refills
You need a constant gas supply when you use propane for your daily needs. If you are new to propane use, it may be challenging to calculate your gas usage. Find a reliable supplier to determine your propane usage and set you up with a propane delivery plan.
