How to Choose the Best Propane Company Near You

You’re probably reading this because you’re not satisfied with your current propane provider. If you’re getting hit with high propane prices, hidden fees, or just bad service…

It’s time to switch propane suppliers.

It’s understandable if you begin to worry about being stuck between service contracts. What if there is a service interruption and a hassle when you switch?

It would be a major nuisance if you had a time gap without propane since you use propane to heat your whole home and appliances.

Save yourself the trouble by planning your propane company switch so the change in service is easy and fast.

10 Questions You Should Ask When Shopping for a New Propane Supplier

1. Do you offer automatic delivery? Automatic propane delivery keeps your home fueled without you needing to worry about checking your tank – ever! A propane company should have the ability to keep track of your usage – through a monitor or other device so you don’t have to.
2. Do you offer online or automatic payment options? The convenience of online payments and account management can’t be ignored. It simplifies the payment process on both ends!
3. Do you lease tanks or do I have to purchase my own? Leasing vs. Buying propane tanks is a very important question, especially when it comes to switching propane companies. Leasing tanks offer the convenience of lower initial costs and maintenance covered by the propane company. You usually must purchase propane from the supplier that leases your tank. Switching suppliers will result in termination of the lease, and can incur fees. (Propane companies cannot fill another companies tank and can’t transport it with more than 20% fuel in the tank).
4. How can I transfer ownership of the leased tank if I change propane companies? After you break it off with your old propane company, make sure you’ve lined up your new supplier, so they’re ready to come in and take their place.
   • Evaluate a few propane companies before breaking up with your old one.
   • Sign on with a new provider immediately after you terminate your old contract.
   • Ask your old propane provider which day they will remove your propane tank. Notifying the new company that you’ll need a new tank is an essential point to bring up when you’re signing the new service contract.
   • We suggest you keep your new propane supplier in the loop of what you will need. That way they can schedule your installation at a convenient time for you.
5. Do you offer free tank installation? Propane tank installation can cost $500-$1,000. Ask your propane supplier if they have any special offers that include free tank installation for new customers – it is an investment for them!
6. What are the fees and incentives for new customers? Sometimes, the most common factor that stops customers from switching propane suppliers is the cost. Contract termination fees can stack up, especially if you’re bound to a contract with a national propane gas titan. Big-name propane companies will practically pick your wallet with fees after giving you a shiny new customer price. If that wasn’t enough, they usually provide worse service and charging higher prices than local providers.
7. Do you offer maintenance for my other propane appliances, such as my hot water heater, stove, or furnace? A one-stop-shop is always convenient! If that is important to you, ask your propane company if they are able to handle simple repairs on other appliances around your home or if they can refer a local HVAC Company.
8. Can you hook my propane tank up to my propane generator? When the power goes out – you want to keep your home warm. Ask if the company you chose offers options to fuel your propane generator. Crystal Flash has a network of businesses to ensure timely and reliable delivery of emergency generator fuels. We offer 24/7/365 fuel supply when and where you need it with nationwide coverage capabilities through our supplier network.
9. Do you offer a pre-buy propane program at a fixed rate? Pre-buying propane at a fixed rate can potentially save you hundreds when winter prices spike to their seasonal peak. Have you ever heard the saying, “The early bird catches the worm?” When referring to  Pre-Buy programs, the saying goes, “The early bird scores the best deal!” Save yourself time and money by purchasing your annual propane gallons in advance at a fixed price.
10. What is your safety record? Finally and most importantly, you should ask the company about its commitment to propane safety. Propane is a safe fuel, but mishandling it has drastic consequences. They should be able to provide their safety record as well as any regulatory programs in which they take. Your propane supplier should also be able to educate you about propane gas safety, signs of propane leak, and what to do in the event of an emergency.

Bonus Advice!

• Testimonials – Check Facebook, Yelp, Google Listings, Angie’s List, and other sites to see what actual customers had to say. Look for the good AND the bad, how did they engage with the bad reviews? They both tell a story about the propane company!
• Social Activity – Does it look like people like engaging with the company?  When customers are engaged, it shows the company is valued by its customers.
• Better Business Bureau – If there have been formal complaints filed with the BBB, this should be a huge red flag.