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Do I Have to Worry About My Propane Freezing?
Homeowners are sometimes worried about using propane, particularly during the colder seasons, over concerns that it may freeze at low temperatures. But are their concerns justified? Does propane freeze? Fortunately, there’s plenty that you can do to avoid such a situation. Storing propane at home for heating purposes is ideal since it is a cleaner fuel that releases less carbon monoxide when burned compared to many other energy alternatives. It is due to this reason that propane is a strong option for those with homes in the sticks or those that live in areas where energy supplies are not readily accessible. Here, we will address any concerns over propane freezing in cold weather, what you should be aware of, as well as the right steps to take.
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">Call To Learn More About Our Propane Delivery ServicesShould I Worry About My Propane Freezing?
The reality is that propane rarely freezes. That’s why we hardly ever hear from our customers about an issue of this kind. Still, that doesn’t automatically mean that their supply of propane is not affected by tough winter seasons or cold spells.
It is actually cold weather as opposed to freezing propane that’s more the issue. It can create a type of knock-on effect that’s mostly unexpected by homeowners.
At What Point Does Propane Actually Freeze?
People often focus on propane’s freezing point since they hear more about this than they do anything else. Propane has a freezing point of minus 187.7°C or minus 306.4°F. It remains constant at this level no matter how or where it is stored too.
Propane usually converts to a solid fuel state at its freezing point, and it is this reason why people are so concerned about it. If it freezes, propane will not flow from a propane tank through to your home, backup generator, or propane grill. Then you are stuck.
Still, this is not a problem for homeowners. However, propane’s boiling point might be, and this is where people sometimes lose the plot slightly.
Propane’s Boiling Point is What Matters and Not Its Freezing Point
The boiling point of propane is measured at minus 42°C or minus 43.6°F. Again, it does not vary from either of these two measurements based on storage conditions or location. You don’t want your propane storage tank, along with the propane within it to fall to these low temperatures.
(978) 717-0490">Call Today: (978) 717-0490What Is the Relevance of Propane’s Boiling Point?
The propane boiling point is where propane cannot vaporize. Propane users require the vaporization process since it allows the fuel to burn and provides a heat source. This ensures that the supply of propane reaches the heating system and the generator is able to fire up if needed, and the swimming pool is not chilly when taking a morning dip.
The Propane Tank Pressure Is Also Important
To allow them to function properly, propane storage tanks maintain internal pressure. As the outside temperatures drop, so does the temperature of the propane within the tank. It also makes it contract, and it now takes up less space. When this happens, a vacuum of space is created inside the tank, and the pressure (PSI) drops.
A PSI of 100 to 200 is okay, but anything above this is a bit high. If the PSI is below 100, the propane will start having difficulties staying in liquid form. The risk here is that it will start solidifying as the propane tank pressure and temperature both drop. In solid form, propane cannot travel down the lines to the stove, heater, or other connected equipment and appliances to keep them operational.
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Steps to Protect Your Supply of Propane
The steps below discuss some of the steps you should take to protect your outdoor home propane tanks.
Step 1: Keep the Propane Tank Topped Up
If your home propane tank is 70 percent empty, it will struggle to maintain a sufficiently high PSI to keep the propane in liquid form.
A sudden drop in temperature that can easily happen when your supply of propane is already low can quickly lead to a PSI drop. This can result in a disrupted propane supply to the connected heating systems, generators, cooking appliances, etc.
If you get regular or automatic propane deliveries from a reliable propane supplier, your propane storage tank will never run too low.
Step 2: Remove Water & Snow from the Exterior of the Tank
Storage tanks can suffer from precipitation, moisture in the air, or freezing temperatures that lead to the formation of ice. Tanks can then experience a temperature drop, especially if the snow on their surface melts but later reforms as ice sheets or sleet. Any valves and regulators are also at risk in cold temperatures.
So, make it a daily habit, especially during the cold seasons, to remove any layers of snow and water from or near your propane tank. The justification for doing so is that if water and snow are not present, the tank and propane within it cannot freeze over.
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Step 3: Cover the Propane Tank
To keep your propane tank warmer, you should consider using a non-electric storage tank cover. You may also use an insulated blanket, but this will depend on the size of your tank. Either of these options can prevent ice from forming. However, avoid using a heated cover or blanket since it would be unsafe.
Step 4: Close the Propane Tank Valve When Not in Use
If you leave the propane tank valve in the open position, it can easily freeze up. It can also allow the freezing lines to lower the internal temperature of the tank. Closing the valve when the propane is not in use helps prevent numerous cold weather-related issues. However, most homes tend to use their propane fuel and tank year-round.
Final Thoughts
The vast majority of propane tanks will likely never suffer from freezing, but stored propane could be adversely affected in extreme weather.
To ensure that this doesn’t happen, preventative measures such as not letting the tank run low, maintaining adequate pressure inside the tank, covering it as a form of insulation, and clearing any ice, water, or snow from the surface of the tank are your best options.
Lastly, when the propane tank is not in use, it is always advisable to close the valve. This ensures that lower temperatures don’t reach the tank, and it helps maintain adequate pressure so that the propane doesn’t solidify.
(978) 717-0490">Get Started - Call Townsend Energy TodayGet Superior Propane Delivery Services by Calling Townsend Energy
When you want first-rate propane delivery services in New England, get in touch with Townsend Energy. Our fuel delivery services are friendly, affordable, and fast. You can trust us to give you unbeatable service every time. Call us now to find out more about our financing options and available propane delivery plans.
We also have a complete line of HVAC services for enhancing home comfort, improving indoor air quality (IAQ), and boosting energy efficiency. Among some of our available services are HVAC tune-ups, installation, maintenance, and repairs. Contact Townsend Energy now! Click the link to view our service area.
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Does Propane Freeze?
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Is It Possible To Fill The Heating Oil Tank With Diesel?
Frigid winters are normal for New England. Everyone expects it, but experience does not guarantee flawless preparation. Problems may still occur in the middle of the season, such as letting your heating oil tank run dry. It is a big headache for homeowners. Fortunately, they can always pick up the phone and call for heating oil delivery. The standard turnaround time is three business days, but local oil suppliers, like Townsend Energy, can do it much faster with same-day emergency oil delivery. Just remember that factors such as the weather and road conditions can affect availability. In case you need to wait a little longer, consider using heating oil alternatives.
If your family is feeling the winter chill and suffering from the cold, you may not have the patience to hang around for conditions to improve. When you want a fast fuel alternative, consider using diesel in your oil-fired furnace or boiler for home heating. Note that diesel is not something that you can fill in your tank and forget. Read on to learn more about this fuel and how you should utilize it for your oil tank.
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">Call To Schedule An Oil Delivery: (978) 717-0490Is It Possible to Fill the Heating Oil Tank with Diesel?
No one wants to run out of fuel in the middle of winter, but it can happen when you least expect it. Use this guide to make the ordeal more bearable.
Examine the Fuel Oil Tank
Diesel and heating oil are similar substances. However, they are taxed in different ways, which affects their prices. Diesel ends up costing a lot more than heating oil, so you probably want to hold off on buying some until you are sure that you need it. Visit your tank and examine the contents prior to making a purchase.
Heating oil tanks typically have a floating gauge. This handy mechanism will tell you the current oil level while you stand outside. It makes it easy to see whether the inside is full, empty, or somewhere in between. Do not just take a cursory glance. Remove the plastic cover and push down the float with your hand. It should float back up if there is still liquid inside. Once it settles, you will get a more accurate reading. If it does not come up, you have an empty tank.
If your tank does not have a float, try manual measurement. You can also do this if you are not certain about the accuracy of your float gauge. Look for a stick that is a little longer than the depth of the tank. It should also be thin enough to enter through the fill tube. Dip it in and pull it out to see the current oil level. If it is lower than the critical level, call for oil delivery. Heating oil suppliers usually advise home oil tank owners to schedule a fuel delivery when contents fall to one-third or one-quarter of the tank volume.
Once you verify that the tank is out of oil, you can proceed with the temporary shift to diesel. However, if you find out that there is still plenty of fuel left, allow the sediment to rest at the bottom and reset the burner. Bleed the lines to release air, if necessary. Restart the system and see if it works. If you don’t want to take any chances, call a technician for assistance.
Related Article: What You Should Know About Condensation In Home Oil Tanks
(978) 717-0490">Call Today: (978) 717-0490Why You Should Avoid Low Oil Levels
If your oil tank runs low, you may experience a sudden system shutdown. This is a built-in protective mechanism for heating systems. A sensor will always check whether the fuel is at a critical level and trigger cessation of operations before the oil is fully used up.
Keep in mind that this is only one of the possible reasons for a system shutdown. Another culprit is sediment build-up in the fuel oil tank, which is common for containers that have not undergone regular cleaning.
Homeowners should also look at the feed lines. These originate at the top of the tank and hang down to get oil. If the pipes do not reach the bottom, it is possible that you will run out of fuel for the heating system even if the tank is not fully empty.
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Diesel as Alternative Heating Fuel: Safety & Uses
You have done your part in isolating the problem. You have confirmed that the oil in the tank is at a critical level, making it necessary to use a temporary alternative. Diesel is a viable option. Use it while you wait for the next heating oil delivery, but not as a permanent replacement.
Diesel is not economical. The higher tax imposed on this type of fuel means that you will have to shell out more money to heat up your home. Heating oil will always be the more budget-friendly option. In terms of performance, you should also remember that diesel burns hotter than fuel oil. The heating system can take the elevated temperature for short periods, but you may see lasting damage if you let this go on for more than a few days.
How much you will need is dependent on the length of the waiting period. Call for local delivery service for an estimate. Most homes should be fine with 5 to 10 gallons of diesel per day.
It is a good idea to keep things organized. You don’t want to get confused about these potentially hazardous substances in your home. Yellow containers are typically used to store diesel, so consider following the color convention. Label this container for clarity. Use up all the diesel within six months. After this period, the liquid will begin to degrade. It will not be safe to use in your heating system. You may rely on additives to extend shelf life, but these have their limitations.
If the heating oil truck arrives before you have exhausted your diesel supply, use it for your vehicles, lawnmowers, and other machines. If you do not have any further use for it, dispose of it properly using the guidelines set by your local government. Call them to check if they have collection centers or recycling facilities.
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How to Use Diesel in Heating Oil Tanks
You now have your gallons of diesel with neat labels in separate containers. Take them to your tank.
- Turn Your Oil-Fired System Off: Begin by shutting off the system using the thermostat control.
- Pour the Fuel: Put the diesel into the tank bit by bit. If you expect the delivery truck to come within 24 hours, you may only need 10 gallons of fuel right now. If it is longer, add as much as necessary. Do not worry about mixing diesel with the leftover heating oil. It will not be a problem for the system. If the tank is dry, you may need to remove air in the lines and sludge in the nozzle. You do not have to get your hands dirty. Call a technician for help. Better yet, avoid drying out the tank by refilling quickly with diesel.
- Let It Sit: Do not turn the tank on right away. Give it around 10 minutes to let the sediments settle back down to the bottom before proceeding.
- Turn Your Home Heating System On: After a sufficient period, you can restart your system and enjoy the warmth inside your home. Everything should normally run until the next oil delivery.
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Get Emergency Fuel Delivery
Dropping to a critical oil level is not a problem when you have Townsend Energy on your side. If you are in the area, call Townsend Energy for emergency oil delivery and get your much-needed supply fast. We will be at your doorstep in 24 hours or less. Our speedy crew will prevent your tank from drying out by replenishing the fuel just in time. With our help, you will not have to depend on expensive diesel for too long.
For Superior Heating Oil Deliveries, Call Townsend Energy
Townsend Energy is proud to be a trusted, affordable heating oil supplier in the area. We offer different delivery plans and financing options. This way, you can customize your oil deliveries by choosing which option works best for you. By working with us, you can expect affordable oil prices and fast and reliable fuel deliveries. Click the link to view our service area.
Also, when you need maintenance service or repair for your heating system, our professionally certified technicians can help you. Our home heating services aim to improve efficiency, comfort while reducing your energy costs. Call Townsend Energy today to schedule your appointment.
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Use These Heating Oil Alternatives When You Run Out
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Preventative Maintenance Tips To Keep Your Standby Generator In Excellent Condition
Even though your home is connected to the grid, you might need to rely on a standby generator at times. You never know when power outages and other emergencies will occur, so it’s important to keep a functional generator on your property. This unit will have the ability to keep your appliances, lights, and security system powered up during power outages and other events. However, you can’t simply store your backup generator in some remote location. You have to regularly check on this unit and maintain it. If you don’t practice diligent standby generator maintenance and keep it in good shape, it may not be able to offer the performance you need when using this appliance becomes essential. Keep reading to discover a few helpful standby generator maintenance tips for keeping your standby generator in excellent condition.
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(978) 717-0490
">Call To Schedule An AppointmentPreventative Maintenance Schedules for Generators
Homeowners should understand the basics of maintaining whole-house generators through various monthly and weekly tasks. Diligence in these areas can extend a generator’s service life and keep it reliable during times of crisis.
Qualified technicians should handle all advanced maintenance tasks. Their services should be scheduled twice annually so that the tasks below can be performed at the proper times.
(978) 717-0490">Call Today: (978) 717-04901. Weekly Maintenance for Standby Generators
- Place your standby generator in AUTO mode. Run your generator to check for errors.
- Make sure that the unit is using the right type of fuel. Look for leaks around the generator. Verify that the circuit breaker is securely closed.
2. Monthly Maintenance Tasks for Your Generator
- Clear the perimeter of the unit of all trash and debris.
- Verify that there aren’t any animals nesting inside the generator.
- Keep the unit’s oil levels near full for superior performance.
- Find out how much coolant there is in the unit’s overflow tank.
- Make sure that the battery is free of corrosion and working properly.
- Look for terminal corrosion and loose wires.
- Check for damage to the gas pipes.
Explore Our Backup Generator Services (978) 717-0490">Call To Schedule A Generator Tune-Up3. Biannual Maintenance Tasks for Whole-House Generators
- Licensed technicians should perform a full diagnostic on the battery.
- Professionals should check the coolant heater, drive belts, enclosure, induction pipes, and exhaust.
- The AC wiring should be examined along with the fuel system, electrical system, coolant lines, and lubrication.
4. Annual Maintenance Tasks for Whole-House Generators
- The oil filter, fuel filter, air filter, spark plugs, and generator oil should be replaced.
- Check the alternator for moisture, dirt, and direct heat.
- Take a look at the unit’s transfer switch and perform load bank testing.
- The cooling system should be flushed as needed, and the crankcase breather should be cleaned.
- Fuel in diesel generators should be tested and reconditioned. Excess water should be extracted from the tank.
Tips for Maintaining Standby Generators
1. Think about the Environment
Proper standby generator maintenance includes a lengthy list of tasks that vary significantly in ideal frequency and over complexity. Before attempting to complete any recommended maintenance tasks, you have to account for several factors that affect your generator’s condition. The environment is the very first of these factors, and this refers to where your generator has been placed. For instance, did you put yours outdoors where it is exposed to the natural elements? Does your generator have sufficient sun protection, and is it protected from debris, rain, and wind? What is the local climate like? Is it arid and dusty? Do you live in a windy and excessively cold region? The harsher the local environment is, the more important it becomes to stay on top of regular generator maintenance.
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2. Consider the Workload of Your Whole-House Generator
Another important thing to consider is the number of times that your generator was called into use during the past year, as well as the length of its use. Some locations rarely have power outages, while others have them multiple times each year due to storms or other recurring problems. An outage might last for several minutes, or it can span for several days depending upon the nature of the event that has caused it. Units that are forced to run often and for long stretches of time will wear down their components at a more rapid rate. Thus, they require more maintenance and attention than units that are rarely used.
3. Account for the Weather
Local weather has a significant impact on whole-house generators. Some areas have frequent storms that include strong, infrastructure-damaging winds. Trees and telephone poles can get blown down, and these things may damage or bring down nearby electrical wires. Be cognizant of the months when events like these happen most often. Schedule professional maintenance services ahead of time so that there are no worries when you enter into storm season. This is also true for residents of northern areas where weather and outside temperatures are often unpredictable. Take care of all important maintenance tasks about one month ahead of harsh winter weather.
4. Check Your Generator’s History
If you just purchased a home that already has a standby generator installed, then you definitely want to find out more about this unit’s history. Speak with the home’s previous owner, and if you can, ask them about the unit’s overall condition and age. Find out if they have signed maintenance records. Ask about the last professional service that the generator received. Ideally, your generator will have a solid maintenance history and be completely operational. If it doesn’t or if it isn’t performing as it should, have a professional come by to inspect the unit and bring it up to speed.
(978) 717-0490">Get Started - Call Townsend Energy Today5. Have a Professional Handle All Advanced Generator Maintenance Tasks
Although homeowners can capably handle many standby generator maintenance tasks, there are quite a few that are always best handled by professionals. Advanced maintenance tasks are both time-consuming and complex. They require the training and expertise of professionals who know how to do them correctly. Professional technicians are able to identify developing problems right away, whereas these same issues can easily be overlooked by homeowners. Professionals can thoroughly test and inspect standby generators. They can also take care of many technical tasks and bring special tools for completing them quickly. Many bring along a number of common spare parts for expediting replacements. They clean these units thoroughly. For these and other reasons, generators often perform like new when their work is done.
Contact Professionals for All Your Other Concerns
Technicians can also help with the operational safety of your generator so that everyone in your home stays safe. Problems can occur with no warning at all. If something appears to be wrong with your unit, you should call for help right away. You should also contact professionals if the efficiency of your generator steeply declines. They’ll find out why this has occurred and made the necessary corrections. Finally, you can also sign up for an ongoing preventative maintenance agreement to cut your maintenance costs and get regular service visits.
Conclusion
Modern consumers are highly dependent upon machines, and machinery needs the power to perform. Homes are filled with gadgets and appliances for chores, entertainment, work, security, comfort, and more. When a power outage occurs, every one of these things will come to a stop unless there’s a backup power supply in place. Prudent homeowners are able to maintain normalcy with standby generators. However, standby generators must be properly maintained, and homeowners must hire professionals to help them get ready and stay ready for power emergencies.
Call Townsend Energy For All Of Your Standby Generator Requirements
Townsend Energy is a leading provider of generator installation services throughout New England. Not only do we offer backup generator installation, but also maintenance, replacement, and repair services. We only employ top-quality service contractors who are well-trained in the most modern methods of HVAC and generator techniques. Therefore, call or contact Townsend Energy online today for more information on a whole-house generator installation today. We offer free, in-home estimates. Click the link to view our service area.
Contact us today to have all of your generator questions answered by experts in the industry.
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