What to Do If You Run Out of Gas

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MS Propane is committed to providing propane that is safe for both our customers and our employees. There are times when a customer may run extremely low on propane or even run out. This could create an unsafe situation that needs to be addressed immediately.

If you run out of propane, follow three easy steps.

1. Close the Service Valve on the Propane Tank

The service valve on your propane tank is at the top, usually under the domed lid you see on top. Remove the lid that protects the valves from the elements and damage. You should see a Y-shaped valve with two nozzles sticking out of the top of the tank. One you cannot turn, and the other you can. Turn the service valve on the tank to the right (clockwise), meaning you’re tightening it until you can’t turn it anymore. If you have more than one tank and they are all out of propane, do this for multiple tanks. 

Once you turn off the gas at the valve, safety codes require that a qualified professional (that’s us!) test your propane system before turning the valve back on. Someone on our team will perform a leak check through the entire piping system for the safety of you and your family.

The pressure loss inside the propane piping can cause connections and fittings to expand and contract. Expanding and contracting parts of your propane system could cause leaks, and we don’t want that!

2. Shut Off All Appliance Valves

Similar to your propane tank, all propane appliances have shut-off valves. Go around to all of the appliances in your home and turn the valves clockwise (to the right) until you can’t turn them anymore. 

Make sure to check these items:

  • Furnace
  • Clothes dryer
  • Water heater
  • Stove/range
  • Gas fireplace
  • Grill
  • Firepit
  • Pool and hot tub heater

3. Call MS Propane Immediately

The sooner you call us, the sooner your propane comes back on. Our numbers vary depending on the location where you receive service.

When we come out to your property, someone must be present at home for the leak check and to make sure the appliances work properly. If we’re delivering propane normally, we can do that without anyone at home because we can just pull the hose up to the tank. If you’re not home, you’ll have to reschedule the appointment (and your fee will go up).

How to Prevent Extra Charges on Your Propane Bill Due to Running Out of Gas

Our Autofill program is the easiest way to prevent this. Enrollment in our Autofill program requires customers to have autopay. Our tank monitors use the same technology found in cell phones to alert us when your propane tank reaches 25% capacity. At that point, our team will schedule a route that swings by your property to fill up the tank to 80%. 

Without autofill, someone at your house will need to look at the gauge under the dome of your propane tank to see how much is left. Call us for regular service if the gauge is 25% or lower. On a 250-gallon tank, 20% left means you have 50 gallons of propane. For a 1,000-gallon tank, that means you have 200 gallons left. 

You definitely want enough propane when the weather turns cold! We’ll call to remind you that our truck is headed your way during a regularly scheduled route as our tank gets lower.

Charges Stemming From an Out-of-Gas Call

We want you to have the most cost-effective experience when ordering gas from MS Propane. Our staff will make every effort to get to your house before you’re completely out of propane. 

If you do run out of propane, expect these charges on your bill:

  • Off-route charge of $150
  • Misrepresentation fee of $150
  • After-hours service charge: $250
    • This is for after 4 p.m. on weekdays or anytime on weekends
  • Holiday charge: $400
    • If we come to your property on a holiday, like Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, etc.
  • Emergency & Required Leak Check: $75 plus repairs, parts and labor
    • This is for repairing any systems at standard service rates.

Contact MS Propane With Any Questions

If you have any questions about our emergency service or out-of-gas policy, contact us or call (417) 512-5041. We want you to stay warm and cozy in the winter, so we’re happy to help in any way we can!