When to Refill Your Propane Tank
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An empty tank isn’t cooking anything! Avoid those stressful, last-minute refills before your next backyard event by using these helpful tactics and tools to check your propane level ahead of time.
How to Tell If Your Propane Tank is Empty
There are some tell-tale signs that your propane tank is empty or nearing empty. You’re probably running low on propane if…
- Your propane tank is significantly lighter than you’d expect.
- The flame from your propane appliance (ex. grill, torchiere, etc.) is low or sputtering.
There are also several ways to check the exact fuel level in your propane tank, from analog and Bluetooth fuel gauges to home remedies like weighing your tank.
Standard Fuel Gauge
U-Haul offers a propane gas level indicator that easily attaches to the top of a propane tank. When the arrow on the gauge points to the yellow, that means your propane is low. When the arrow points to red, you should look to refill your tank soon to not risk running out.
Magnetic Propane Indicator
U-Haul also offers a magnetic propane gas level indicator that sticks to the side of a propane tank. Unlike the Bluetooth magnetic gauges, this indicator displays the fuel level directly on the tank, but it does require the gas to be on and takes around 10 minutes to deliver an accurate reading on your propane.
Bluetooth Propane Fuel Gauge
There are a number of Bluetooth propane gauges on the market that allow you to track your tank’s propane level through an app on your phone. Some models affix to the top of the tank while others are attached to the tank magnetically, but most of them provide accurate readings in seconds through a clean mobile display. Just make sure that you remove your gauge first if you choose to exchange your tank!
Weigh Your Propane Tank
If you have a scale handy, then you can identify how much propane is left in your tank with some simple math. Weigh your tank on the scale, then subtract the tank’s tare weight (TW) from this measurement. The difference is the estimated weight of your remaining propane. The tare weight of your propane tank will be stamped into the collar of the tank. Be sure to only conduct this test outdoors since a propane tank should never be brought indoors.
Save Money by Refilling Your Tank Instead of Exchanging
The average cost to exchange a propane tank is 20% higher than simply refilling your tank! Plus, by keeping your same tank, you ensure that you aren’t wasting money by forfeiting any remaining fuel left in your tank. Our comprehensive Propane Refill vs. Exchange article explores more of the reasons why it makes the most sense to refill and reuse.
Transport Your Tank Safely
Close your tank valve – Make sure that the valve on your propane tank is closed tightly to prevent any propane from leaking out during transportation. Place your dust cap over the tank valve for safe transit. If you don’t have one, request a complimentary dust cap from a U-Haul attendant during your next refill.
Secure your tank – Use a Tankfoot, EZGO® tank holder, or milk crate to secure the bottom of your tank and keep it upright. This ensures that the OPD valve and pressure relief valve can function properly.
Ensure proper ventilation – It is not recommended that you transport your tank inside of a vehicle (like the back seat of a car). If you must, then roll down the rear windows to ensure that there is sufficient ventilation in case your tank valve comes loose.
If you need to refill your propane tank, download the U-Haul App or use the propane location finder on our website to discover a U-Haul refill station near you. With 1,100+ locations open 7 days a week and thousands of propane-certified team members, U-Haul can get your tank refilled today!