Tips for First-Time Propane Users

Using propane for the first time can feel unfamiliar, but once you learn the basics, it becomes a dependable way to heat your home throughout the winter. Our helpful guide covers safety reminders, gauge reading, tank ownership, ordering fuel, and what to expect during your first heating season.

Who Owns the Propane Tank?

Your tank will be either company-owned or customer-owned. Most homeowners use a provider-owned tank. If the tank is owned by the provider, only that provider can legally fill it. When buying a home or renting a property with an existing company-owned tank, please contact the propane provider as soon as possible to transfer the account into your name.

If you own your tank, you must have documented proof of ownership, such as a bill of sale. Without it, Michigan law does not allow a supplier to fill the tank. Learn more in the Crystal Flash guide to Propane Tank Ownership.

Many new propane users prefer a provider-owned tank because the propane company handles inspections, maintenance, and replacement.

Your First Walk-Through: What to Check Right Away

Start with a quick tank check so you feel comfortable with your system.

1. Lift the dome lid on top of the tank to find the gauge, fill valve, and shutoff valve.
2. Locate the tank gauge and confirm the percentage of fuel in the tank.
3. Look for the provider’s service sticker.
4. Make sure the area around the tank is clear of brush and debris.
5. Identify your propane appliances such as your furnace, water heater, cooktop, or fireplace.

Reading Your Tank Gauge

Rounded to the nearest gallon. Keep in mind that readings can shift a bit with temperature.

Gauge %	120-gal	124-gal	250-gal	330-gal	500-gal	1,000-gal
10%	12	12	25	33	50	100
20%	24	25	50	66	100	200
30%	36	37	75	99	150	300
40%	48	50	100	132	200	400
50%	60	62	125	165	250	500
60%	72	74	150	198	300	600
70%	84	87	175	231	350	700
80% (full)	96	99–100	200	264–265	400	800

How to Read Your Propane Gauge

Your tank has a round gauge under the lid that displays the percentage of propane inside. A full tank will read around 80 percent. Temperature changes can cause slight gauge shifts. Watch our full guide for more information.

Determining How Much Propane You’ll Use

Usage varies by home size, insulation, appliance efficiency, and weather. In Michigan, common ranges include:

• Smaller or partially heated homes: 300 to 500 gallons
• Average propane-heated homes: 500 to 900 gallons
• Large homes or multiple appliances: 900 gallons or more

Your first winter gives you the clearest picture of your home’s typical usage.

When to Order Propane

Customers can choose between Auto-Fill delivery and Will Call delivery, which determines when (or if) they need to request a propane delivery.

Auto-Fill Customers

If you are enrolled in Auto-Fill without a Crystal Flash Tank Monitoring System, please check in with us if your tank gauge reaches 20%. While we use proven methods to estimate your fuel level, contacting us at 20% allows us to confirm a delivery is scheduled and adjust your usage rate if needed.

If you are enrolled in Auto-Fill with the Crystal Flash Tank Monitoring System installed, no action is needed. We actively monitor your tank level and schedule deliveries for you.

Will Call Customers

If you use Will Call Delivery, you are responsible for watching your tank gauge and placing a delivery order when it reaches 30%.

At Crystal Flash, orders can be placed anytime through the customer portal at my.crystalflash.com or through the Crystal Flash mobile app.

What to Do If You Smell Propane

Propane has a strong odor similar to rotten eggs. If you notice this smell inside your home or near your tank, leave the area, avoid using switches, and call for help from a safe distance. Learn more about what to do if you suspect a propane leak.

Our phone number, (800) 875-4851, is monitored 24/7 for emergencies.

Additional safety reminders

• Keep the tank’s lid closed
• Install carbon monoxide detectors on every floor of your residence
• Clear snow away from the regulator and vent
• Do not store materials on or near the tank
• Do not paint, decorate, or modify the tank

Seasonal Tips for Michigan Propane Users

• Clear snow and ice from your driveway and clear a path to the tank before delivery  so drivers can access the tank
• Use a tall flag or marker if your tank becomes buried in snow
• Remove snow from around the regulator and vent area
• Schedule annual maintenance for your furnace or water heater

Common Mistakes First-Time Users Can Avoid

• Waiting until the gauge drops below 10 percent
• Confusing 80 percent with a full 100 percent
• Allowing snow to pile against the tank
• Ignoring unusual odors
• Forgetting to check levels during long cold periods
• Skipping annual furnace maintenance

Quick Reference Checklist for New Propane Users

• Check your gauge weekly during your first heating season.
• Order at 30 percent if you use Will Call Delivery.
• Keep the tank area accessible.
• Maintain indoor carbon monoxide detectors.
• Consider Auto-Fill or wireless monitoring.

Glossary for First-Time Propane Users

• Gauge: Shows the percentage of propane in your tank.
• Regulator: Controls pressure between the tank and your appliances.
• Auto-Fill: Crystal Flash schedules deliveries for you.
• Will Call: You monitor the tank and place your own orders.
• BTU: A measure of heat output.
• LP Gas: Another term for propane used in home heating.

Ready to Feel Confident With Propane?

If you are setting up propane for the first time or switching from another provider, Crystal Flash is here to help. Our team takes pride in friendly guidance, safe installation, and dependable delivery. 

Frequently Asked Questions for New Propane Users

How often will I need a propane delivery?

Most Michigan homeowners receive 1 to 4 deliveries per year, depending on home size and appliance usage.

Why is my tank only filled to 80 percent?

Propane expands as it warms. Tanks are filled to about 80 percent to leave room for expansion.

Can I install or move my propane tank myself?

Tank installation must be completed by trained professionals. Learn what to expect in the Propane Tank Installation Guide.

What should I do if my gauge reading changes throughout the day?

Small fluctuations are normal because propane expands and contracts with temperature.

Is it safe to clear snow off the tank?

Yes. Use a soft broom or your hands to remove snow from the tank and regulator area.

Do I need to be home during delivery?

Not usually, as long as the tank is accessible and the path is safe for the driver.

Why does my neighbor receive more frequent deliveries than I do?

Usage varies based on insulation, appliance efficiency, and daily routines. Trucks carry fuel based on a pre-routed schedule, which factors in delivery type and tank levels on the day’s route.

How do I know if my tank is customer-owned?

Look for documentation such as a bill of sale. You can read more in the Propane Tank Ownership Guide.