Whether you are replacing an old tank or switching over to propane and installing a new one, there are two key questions you should ask yourself: What size tank should I install and should I buy or lease?
While these might not seem like critical questions to consider, they are in fact very important, because changing your mind after the fact could be very costly.
Choosing the right size tank
When referring to matching an appliance to the job it needs to perform, we call it rightsizing – a concept that definitely applies to propane tanks, which range in size from small and portable to stationary above ground units to 1000+ gallon underground models. You might think bigger is always better but installing a tank that’s too large can result in a fuel bill that’s higher than needed when it comes time to fill it, and at the opposite end of the spectrum, choosing a tank that’s too small means constantly having to fill your tank.
You might be inclined to just replace your old tank with a new one that’s the same size, and for some, that’s recommended. But if you think you have the wrong size tank, now’s the time to make a change.
If you have already or are planning to make any changes to your home of lifestyle, you may want to adjust your tank size. This could include adding square footage to your home which means more space to heat, installing propane powered appliances like ranges, dryers, pool heaters, fireplaces, or generators or if your family size has or will increase because more people equals more energy use. Each of these changes affects the energy load of your home, which influences tank sizing.
If not much has changed in your home, and you feel the time between deliveries is appropriate, then making a direct swap of your current tank may make the most sense.
If you aren’t sure if you should adjust your tank size based on some of the changes mentioned above, you can always talk to one of our propane experts who can help you make the right decision.
Buying vs. Leasing
When it comes to leasing anything, it comes down to two main factors: cost and responsibility. Let’s look at both in detail to help you make the right decision.
When you purchase a propane tank, you now own the tank for its entire lifespan and you can choose any propane provider that services your area to fill it. However, the cost of purchasing a tank isn’t cheap and price will depend of course on the size. You’ll also need to factor in other equipment like regulators, blocks, etc. You’ll also need to have the tank properly installed especially if you bury the tank. When you lease, installation and additional equipment is typically absorbed by the company renting it to you. You won’t be responsible for maintenance or repairs, just the agreed upon leasing fee.
Even though a propane tank is a pretty simple piece of equipment, there is some maintenance responsibility that goes along with it. Because the tank holds pressurized gas, it’s important that it’s properly maintained and any issues are fixed immediately. When you purchase the tank, the responsibility of upkeep, regulators, valves, lines, etc. fall on you as the owner. When you lease, the responsibility falls on the leasing company to make sure the tank stays in compliance and is safe and functioning properly.
For many propane users, leasing a tank makes more sense both financially and responsibly. Have questions about replacing or installing a new propane tank, our expert customer service and service technicians are here to help.
