Question: What is propane?

Answer: Propane is a hydrocarbon molecule that is produced as a byproduct of petroleum refining and the processing of natural gas. Propane is an affordable, clean fuel that is non-toxic, colorless, and virtually odorless. An identifying odor is added so it can be detected.

Question: Is propane safe?

Answer: Propane has a narrow range of flammability when compared to other petroleum products. In order to ignite, the propane-air mix must contain from 2.2% to 9.6% propane vapor. If the mixture contains less than 2.2% gas, it is too lean to burn. If the mixture contains more that 9.6%, it is too rich to burn. Propane won’t ignite unless the source of ignition is at least 940 degrees Fahrenheit.

Question: What do I do if I smell gas?

Answer: Extinguish any open flames or sources of ignition and vacate the building without using any electrical switches, appliances, thermostats or telephones. Once outside the building, close the gas valve under the lid of your propane tank. Call Thurston Energy or your local fire department from a cellular phone or neighbor’s house. Even if you do not continue to smell gas, do not turn the gas valve back on. Wait for a propane technician to arrive.

Question: Why isn’t my tank filled to 100 percent capacity?

Answer: Propane liquid will expand nearly 17 times more than water over the same temperature increase. As a result, tanks are filled to 80% of their capacity in order to allow the propane liquid room to expand when there is an increase in temperature.

Question: How do I read the gauge on my propane tank?

Answer: The tank gauge is located on the top of the tank under the hood. It reads in 10% increments from 0% to 80%. 80% is considered to be full.