Running out of propane can be a big inconvenience, especially in the winter. Every year, our Will-Call customers often ask why we must perform—and charge them for—a safety check when they’ve let their propane tank hit empty. It doesn’t seem like it should be a such big deal, after all, just fill up the tank like you always would, right? Not quite. Here’s why:
All propane piping and fittings are coated with a pipe-joint compound to seal connections and prevent leaks. But if the pressure changes in the lines—as happens when you run out of fuel—there is the possibility that the joint compound could contract and create a leak. While propane is completely safe under most conditions, it can be highly flammable, so leaking propane lines can be dangerous.
As a result, whenever we install a new tank, or if you have a run-out, we perform a pressure test to make sure everything is operating safely when we refill your tank.
These pressure tests are also required by state and federal law, as well as insurance rules. According to the National Fuel Gas code, “Immediately after the gas is turned on into a new system or into a system that has been initially restored after an interruption of service, the piping system shall be tested for leakage. If leakage is indicated, the gas supply shall be shut off until the necessary repairs have been made.”
In other words, a licensed professional must perform a leak test:
If you’re on will-call for propane deliveries, you’re responsible for monitoring your tank levels, and if you run out of fuel, we will have to perform and charge you for a test. Keep an eye on your tank, particularly in colder weather, and call when you have no less than 30% left in your tank. That ensures we can get you on the schedule and make a delivery in plenty of time.
Or you can avoid all the hassle altogether with our Automatic Delivery service. Our customers who use propane to heat their homes overwhelmingly choose Automatic Delivery because it’s no work, no worries. Our sophisticated computerized system monitors the weather and keeps track of your fuel use so we know when to schedule your deliveries, and you always have propane.
There’s a reason homeowners and businesses in Lamoille, Franklin, and Northern Chittenden Counties in Vermont trust Corse Fuels for top-notch service and fair prices. Contact us for more information today!