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Frequently Asked Questions

How To Read Your Tank Gauge

The gauge that is mounted on your propane tank measures the volume of fuel remaining as a percentage of the total capacity of the tank. The most common error made by consumers is to believe the gauge reads in gallons of fuel remaining. IT DOES NOT.
To establish how much fuel is left in your tank, simply multiply the water capacity of your propane tank by the percentage shown on the gauge. The gauge pictured below is for generalization only. The gauge on your tank may appear different but will read/operate in the same fashion.
The gauge on the left is reading roughly 55% as indicated by the needle. This means that the propane tank has approximately 55% of the total water capacity left. For example, if this gauge was attached to a 125 gallon propane tank, the tank will have approximately 68.75 gallons of propane remaining (125 x .55). If the needle was pointing at 80%, the tank will have 100 gallons remaining (125 x .80).

Things To Remember About Your Propane Gauge:

  • It is important to check your propane gauge often, typically once every two weeks or at least once every month. Over time the float attached to the gauge may malfunction producing a non-functioning gauge that may “stick” at a certain percentage.
  • The gauge gives an approximation of fuel remaining in your tank. The actual level of propane in your tank may vary depending upon many factors including the ambient outdoor temperature. As temperatures increase, the vapor pressure inside the tank will increase and vice versa.
  • WHEN THE GAUGE READS 20% OR BELOW, CALL SHAWLEY’S IMMEDIATELY TO RECEIVE A PROPANE DELIVERY BEFORE YOUR TANK RUNS OUT!!
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