What Happens If You Run Out of Propane? (+ How to Avoid It)
Running out of propane is more than just an inconvenience. It can shut down your appliances, leave you without heat or hot water, and even create a safety issue that requires a professional inspection before your system can be turned back on.
If you’re in the Acton and Concord, MA area, here’s what you need to know about propane runouts and how to prevent them at your home.
What Happens When Your Propane Tank Runs Empty
When your propane tank runs dry, every appliance connected to it stops working immediately. That means no heat, no hot water, and no working stove or dryer if those run on propane too. Beyond the obvious disruption, an empty tank also introduces a bigger concern: air and moisture can get into the lines, which increase the risk of a leak once the system is refilled and restarted.
Why a Safety Inspection Is Required after a Runout
Because of that risk, propane providers, including our team at Bursaw Gas & Oil, are required to perform a full safety inspection and leak check before turning your system back on after a runout. A technician will need to inspect your gas lines, fittings, and appliances to confirm everything is safe before your tank can be refilled and your equipment is relit.
This process protects your home, but it also takes time, meaning you could be without propane for longer than you’d like while waiting for an inspection to be scheduled and completed.
Related Post: Propane Delivery 101: Tank Sizes, Refill Schedules & More
How to Avoid Running Out of Propane
The best way to deal with a propane outage is to avoid one altogether. We offer a couple of delivery options designed to help our customers stay ahead of their fuel supply.
- Automatic delivery: We track your fuel usage with degree-day calculations and schedule your propane deliveries for you, so you don’t have to watch your tank gauge or remember to place an order.
- Will-call delivery: If you’d rather keep an eye on your own levels, our will-call option lets you order when you’re ready. We recommend reaching out once your tank reaches about 30% full to give us enough time to schedule your delivery.
Whichever option fits your household best, staying proactive about your propane levels is the simplest way to avoid an unexpected outage and the inspection process that comes with it.
Related Post: Understanding Propane Delivery Frequency for Your Home in MA
We’re Here to Help Keep Your Propane Flowing
Nobody wants to deal with a propane runout, and at Bursaw Gas & Oil, we’re committed to helping our Acton and Concord area customers avoid one. Whether you’re interested in automatic delivery or will-call, our team is ready to help. Reach out to Bursaw Gas & Oil or become a customer today to get started.