How do I check how much propane is left in my tank?

Big tanks: read the dial, remember it's a percentage

Home and cabin tanks — the 250- or 500-gallon ones — have a float gauge showing percent full under the dome lid. A 'full' fill only goes to about 80%, leaving room for the liquid to expand, so 80% is topped off, not shortchanged. Multiply the percentage by the tank's capacity for a rough gallon count: a 500-gallon tank reading 30% holds around 150 gallons. Schedule a refill before it drops too low rather than waiting for empty.

20 lb cylinders: no gauge, three tricks

Weigh it — the tare weight ('TW') is stamped on the collar; a full cylinder is the tare plus about 20 lb, so subtract to see what's left. Or clip on an inexpensive external gauge that reads the level.

Or the old warm-water trick: pour a cup of warm water down one side, then run your hand down the metal. The liquid propane inside keeps the tank cool, so you'll feel a distinct line where warm turns to cool — that's your fuel level.

For cabins and second homes

Up our mountain roads, a remote tank monitor earns its keep — it reads the level from your phone so you're not driving out to check a dial, and you'll never open the cabin to a cold, empty tank in January. We'll advise on setup alongside your propane supplier. Call (828) 545-0525.