Propane is a high-energy alternative to traditional fossil fuels that is known for its low emissions due to minimal carbon levels.It can be used to power everything from portable stove and barbeques to home heating appliances.Knowing how to choose the right path will give you the best fuel for your money, regardless of what you're using it for.
Step 1: What is the purpose of your propane tank?
The best way to narrow down your choices is to ask yourself what you need propane for.It can be used for many things.To determine the range of propane usage you need, make a list of all the things you do that use propane.
Step 2: The barbeque grills need a 18 L tank.
If you're barbecuing, the smaller portable tanks that you can purchase or exchange at local hardware, big-box, and grocery stores are best.A bigger tank is something you should consider.Small propane tanks are typically supplied by gas stations.
Step 3: Families can choose between a 500 gallon or 1,500 gallon tank.
The average family uses around 1,200 gallons of propane each year to heat their home.A 500 gallon (1,900 L) tank will need to be refilled about 3 times a year.Families that want to use propane appliances such as dryers, hot water heaters, and stove use around 1,500 gallons each year, so similar tank sizes are suitable.
Step 4: Determine your tank size based on where you live.
Most residential tanks are above ground and can hold up to 1000 gallons.500 gallons or 1,000 gallons are typically the underground tanks.If you want to have enough space for your propane, you need to compare the amount of space in your yard with the available tank sizes.250 gallons (950 L) tanks are 7.5 inches (19 cm) in length and 30 inches (76) in diameter.
Step 5: You can choose a price range that suits your budget.
The cost of a propane tank can range from $500 to over $2000.That's a pretty big price range, so decide on your limit and look for tanks that are going to offer you the size you need and nothing more to avoid spending too much money.The cost of a 1,000 gallon tank is around $2,699 new and $1,899 used.The 500 gallon tanks are new and used.500 gallons will be 1,900 L or less if it's less than $1,000.500 gallon (1,900 L) tanks are used for $799, 320 gallon (1,320 L), 250 gallon (100L), and 120 gallon (500L) vertical tanks cost between $599 and $549, respectively.
Step 6: Look for potential locations for your tank.
Delivery truck hoses can reach propane tanks in bad weather if they are close to all-weather roads.If you have the motivation, you can dig your own hole.The typical hole size for a 500 gallon tank is around 5 feet in depth and width with a length of around 12 feet.Take notes and take pictures of the installation if you invest in a professional installation.This information can be used when changing tanks or providers.There are certain requirements that determine where propane installation can take place.You will probably have to go to a local fire department to get a permit.You can get a plumbing permit from the local planning departments.All permits are $25 to $50 and don't have to be renewed.
Step 7: Buy a used propane tank on a classified site.
You can find used 500 gallon (1,900 L) propane tanks for between $375 to $625 on sites likecraigslist.The prices can be different in your area.Ask the propane dealers about the requirements for testing and certifying used tanks.Don't buy a tank with a missing manufacturer's plate.Make sure it has the "U" stamp and that the cylinders are in good condition.Trinity Industries and American Welding and Tank are two popular manufacturers of tanks.Suburban Propane and AmeriGas both sell and lease tanks.Provide the National Propane Gas Association with your zip code in order to get referrals.
Step 8: Purchase a new propane tank from a manufacturer.
Give the National Propane Gas Association your zip code so they can refer you to propane retailers.You don't get this kind of freedom when you lease, so take advantage of it by shopping and comparing prices from different suppliers.Do you want to paint the tank yourself?Liability is on you if you own a tank.Problems that result from undetected repairs include propane leaks.Investing in repairs from local hardware stores is a good way to maintain your tank.Refer to your service manual for recommended maintenance.
Step 9: Buy, exchange or refill a propane tank.
If you need a smaller propane tank for a barbeque, go to a big-box store.Purchase a tank, exchange an existing tank for a new one, or pay to refill it.You're paying about $18.47 for a 20 pound tank of propane at a price of $3.93 per gallon in an exchange.Since the price is the same even if a bit of propane is left in it, avoid places that charge by the tank.If the store is filling your tank all the way, you can save money.Hours are sometimes limited at hardware stores.When no one can service you, call around first and make sure that a trained employee is on site so you don't have to wait or waste time.
Step 10: You can purchase propane from legal suppliers.
Refer to the contract before buying propane.Most homeowners have to buy propane from the company that owns the tank.You should check your contract to be sure that this requirement lasts for 3 to 5 years.Extra charges that can add up to about $120 per year or $1,200 over a period of 10 years are tacked on by many of these suppliers.Most states don't allow propane companies to fill tanks that are leased from other companies.Many states will fine propane dealers if they fill tanks belonging to other companies.You are responsible for paying the fine if you lie about owning a leased tank.All repair and maintenance expenses are covered by the company with leased tanks.You can switch to another supplier at the end of the contract.If you choose to go this route, you'll need to remove your old tank to make room for a new one.
Step 11: You can call a local propane supplier.
There are local propane suppliers in your area.Residential, industrial, and commercial propane services are offered by these companies.Ask about the available options if you want to use a different method of payment.If you want your propane costs to be consistent, try and use a company that has fixed prices.Ask about minimum monthly purchasing requirements.Depending on the volume of propane fuel, these fees vary.You can buy propane at gas stations and other places.
Step 12: After you decide on the product, arrange for propane delivery to your home.
Automatic and as needed delivery are offered by most companies.Automatic means scheduled deliveries that are based on your propane usage to make sure your tank is always full.You can call for a delivery when you need one and monitor your propane usage on your own.Automatic delivery works best for high-volume users and people who don't have time to monitor their propane usage on their own.