How to Read your Propane Tank Gauge

Running out of propane is most likely an experience you never want to have. On a cold winter day, if your propane tank is empty you’ll find that your furnace stops working and the temperature inside your home drops drastically. In addition to being cold and inconvenienced, letting your propane tank run completely out of fuel can actually cost you extra fees to get it refilled. To avoid running out, it’s a good idea to check your gauge occasionally. Not sure how to read your gauge or what percentage means you need a refill? This guide will help you to determine when it’s time to call your Eden propane supplier for a delivery.  

How Does the Gauge Work? 

The tank float gauge measures the level of liquid propane in the tank. The float, just as it sounds, floats on the top of the liquid propane. It is connected to the gauge which gives an approximate percentage of the liquid in the tank. The float gauge is not 100% accurate, but it gives a pretty close estimate, close enough that you can determine when a refill is necessary.  

What Do the Numbers on the Gauge Mean? 

The needle points to a number on the dial, which translates to a percentage. That percentage is the amount of propane in the tank in relation to how much the tank will hold. The following chart lists the percentages and how they translate to different tank capacities. 

Gauge Reading	150 Gallon Tank	250 Gallon Tank	500 Gallon Tank
80%	120	200	400
70%	105	175	350
60%	90	150	300
50%	75	125	250
40%	60	100	200
30%	45	75	150
20%	30	50	100
10%	15	25	50

 

Simply read the percentage on your gauge and compare it to the size of your tank in gallons. You should easily be able to see how much propane you have left in your tank. Notice that the bottom two lines on the chart are in red. When your tank gets below 20% you should schedule a refill soon. If your tank has 10% or less, you are in danger of running out completely. Err on the side of caution, because the float gauge is not always perfectly accurate. You could actually have less propane than your gauge suggests.  

Avoid Running Out of Propane with Regular Deliveries from Carolina Fuels 

Would you prefer not to worry about reading your gauge and trying to determine when you need to order a refill? Ease your mind and sign up for regular Eden propane deliveries from Carolina Fuels. The experts at Carolina Fuels can time your refills based on your typical household usage and the weather. You’ll only pay for the amount of propane that goes into your tank, so you won’t overpay for an early refill if your tank wasn’t low. But you’ll never have to worry about running out. Combine propane deliveries with regular furnace maintenance and save on the combination of services. Regular maintenance will keep your furnace running smoothly and efficiently all winter and scheduled fuel deliveries will keep your tank full. You get worry-free home heating for a cozy winter. Call Carolina Fuels to schedule your Eden propane deliveries and maintenance: (336) 623-9741.