Is propane safe?

Yes. Propane is a very safe source of energy. Tanks, delivery systems, and appliances are all built and installed to meet National Safety Codes. These standards are designed and adhered to in order to maintain the utmost in safety and reliability. To date, over 14 million households take advantage of the benefits of using propane.

Where does propane come from?

Propane comes from two sources: natural gas processing and the refining of crude oil. North America produces 97% of our propane supply, and 90% of that is produced in the United States. Propane is a hydrocarbon known as a gas liquid. It is stored, transported, and metered by our trucks in a liquid state. This liquid vaporizes inside your propane tank as it is being used and is then fed into the gas lines that service your propane appliances.

Why does propane smell like rotten eggs?

In its natural state, propane is odorless. However, during the refining process, an odorant called ethyl mercaptan is added to provide a strong, unpleasant odor that aids in the detection of leaks.

What influences the price of propane?

By far the biggest influence on propane cost is the price of its raw materials: crude oil and natural gas. However, the price of propane also responds to the situations that affect its supply or demand such as unexpectedly cold or warm weather, supply interruptions, or excess production. Despite market fluctuations, it is our objective to provide our customers with a stable, consistent price.

Who uses propane?

Propane is a trusted and reliable energy source that is used by millions of Americans each day. It fulfills energy needs by burning cleanly and efficiently, giving consumers more value for their energy dollar. People use propane in and outside their homes for furnaces, water heaters, air conditioners, outdoor grills and appliances; on farms; for industrial uses such as forklifts and fleet vehicles; and in millions of commercial establishments, including restaurants and hotels that depend on propane for heating, cooking and other uses.

What are the uses of propane?

Propane is a single-source energy supply for limitless applications. Propane heats the home to a consistent warmth, warms water quickly and efficiently, dries laundry faster, cooks food quickly to exact temperatures, puts a cozy fire in the fireplace, fuels the outdoor lights and backyard grill, and heats the pool. For a complete listing of uses, please visit www.usepropane.com

Why would I choose propane over electricity for my appliances and for heating my home?

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, it could cost up to twice as much to operate your range, water heater, dryer or furnace with electricity than with propane gas. Propane gas furnaces and heaters provide more consistent warm air throughout your home at a lower cost than electric heat pumps and have a longer average life span of 20 years, compared with electric heat pumps’ 12-year average life span.

Do I have to call for delivery?

No. Your home is supplied by a propane tank system that we monitor regularly and fill automatically.

How am I billed for my propane usage?

Penn Valley will read your meter on a monthly schedule. You will receive an invoice in the mail that will include your billing cycle, units consumed, and balance information.

What unit of measure is used?

CCF (hundred cubic feet) is the standard unit of measure for propane vapor: 1 CCF = 2.75 gallons

How do I read my tank gauge?

The gauge on your tank has an arrow that rotates around the gauge dial to show how full your tank is. Whichever number the gauge arrow is pointing to, that is the percent full reading for your tank. So if the arrow is pointing to 50, this means your tank is 50% full.

Am I billed according to the gauge reading?

No. You are billed for the amount that we pump through the meter on our delivery trucks, which are regularly inspected by the state.

Do I have to call for delivery?

No. Your propane deliveries will be made automatically based on your usage. For unpredictable usage (i.e. pools, space heaters and generators) we recommend you monitor your usage.

How am I billed?

Upon delivery you will receive a white slip stating gallons delivered and amount due. Please pay from this invoice.

What happens if I run out of gas and need delivery?

If you are currently on Auto Delivery and run out, we provide 24-hour emergency service. If you are not on Auto Delivery then services vary and additional fees may apply.

Who should I call if I smell gas?

Call Penn Valley immediately at (215) 723-7429.

Do I need to call if I am planning to dig or plant around my tank or gas lines?

Yes. We will be glad to mark your gas lines or provide a map with line and tank location.

Can I hook up other propane appliances?

Propane appliances should be installed by qualified technicians to ensure safe and proper installation. Please call our service department to schedule your installation.