Below are a few questions we’ve received that we have answers to. Have a different question? Feel free to contact us!
Propane
Some appliances are specifically manufactured to use propane. Some may be converted from natural gas to propane. Mobile or manufactured homes and recreational vehicles must use appliances, such as water heaters and heating equipment, which are approved by the American National Standards Institute for propane use (each appliance should have a manufacturer’s label for its intended use). Also, air intakes are necessary when using propane appliances in these homes, but are not required for standard housing equipment. You can always contact us for more details.
An important note: Do not change the air supply to the appliances in your home. Always follow the manufacturers’ guidelines.
There are a few reasons you may need to turn off your propane tank – you smell gas and you suspect a leak or you’ve run out of propane. Here’s a quick video on how to turn your tank off.
Normally the propane gas company owns all equipment, including the tanks and regulators. Therefore, the price of propane gas to the customer may include a charge for use and maintenance of the equipment. For other fuels, the customer owns the equipment and the price covers only the fuel.
The propane business is competitive and each company sets its own pricing policy. Most companies price propane so that the more you buy per year, the less you pay per unit.
Propane prices are usually based on the customer’s estimated annual use. When a customer uses additional propane appliances, total consumption and cost increase but the unit cost may be reduced. By the same token, if propane use decreases, the customer will likely pay a higher price per unit.
Another factor that can determine the price of propane, as with any other fuel, is the cost of acquiring the product from wholesalers. Price fluctuation may vary depending on a number of factors. Advance planning by a consumer can help control these costs (e.g., budget plans, fixed-price programs).
Yes, when used properly. Although propane gas is naturally colorless and odorless, an odor is added to alert users in the event of a leak. To be familiar with the odor of propane gas, ask us for a sniff test. It’s a pungent aroma similar to that of a skunk or rotten eggs. Storage, use, and handling of propane fall under the standards adopted by the National Fire Protection Association, Title 49 USC, and approved by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
In the past there have been no significant disruptions in supplying propane. Approximately 90% of the propane consumed in the United States is produced domestically. Of the remaining 10%, which is imported via pipeline, tanker, boat, or other means of transport, most comes from Canada.
Close all propane tank or cylinder supply valves. Call us for a fill and system restart.
Take immediate action! If you smell gas in your house, camper, RV, workplace or around any gas equipment:
- Put out smoking materials and other open flames.
- Do not turn light switches, appliances or thermostats on or off, and do not use the telephone. An electric spark could ignite the gas.
- Promptly get everyone out of the building, vehicle, RV, trailer or area.
- Close all gas tanks or cylinder supply valves.
- Call us from a neighbor’s telephone.
- Stay outside until the problem has been corrected.
Propane dealers operate in a competitive marketplace and prices may vary among companies. Transportation costs contribute to geographic variations in price. Companies like Tri Gas & Oil that provide complete 24-hour-a-day, 7-day-a-week service may be slightly more expensive than companies that offer limited service hours. Also, a few companies only sell propane and offer no other services.
