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Post by HeavyDuty on Apr 6, 2023 8:06:46 GMT -5
For the first time in my life I’m on LP. It’s for stovetop cooking and instant hot water, plus a fireplace and outside piped in grill. The builder said we probably will only need a tank once a year, but possibly more because we have five people using hot water. The tank is 250 gallons, and they fill in to 200.
I have a reminder to read the gauge on the first of every month, but I’m wondering about remote sensors. The LP company offers one for sale and they will monitor and fill automatically, but that locks me in to that LP company. I’d rather own the equipment and call when I need a fill.
I’m not seeing much out there for remote sensors. There’s a Bluetooth one that is magnetic, it fastens to the bottom of the tank. Based on the tank location I’d probably also need their Wi-Fi converter, for a total of $225 or so.
Does anyone use these? I’m not sure it’s worth it.
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Post by rdr on Apr 6, 2023 9:26:21 GMT -5
I would think that if you feel you need to check the level frequently, it's time to refill.
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Post by Peegoo 🏁 on Apr 6, 2023 9:51:09 GMT -5
If you want convenience, go with the company-monitored sensor.
If you want independence, check the gauge on the tank once per month. I've never trusted the remote sensors on these because it adds layers to the process that can break down.
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argo
Wholenote
Posts: 401
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Post by argo on Apr 6, 2023 10:07:01 GMT -5
I have Propane, after awhile you get to sense and know when its time to check and keep a closer eye on the gauge. Plus we are outside quite alot.
I'm curious to know more about the instant hot water, is that just at the kitchen sink or a whole house system?
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argo
Wholenote
Posts: 401
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Post by argo on Apr 6, 2023 10:12:57 GMT -5
OK, I just been schooled (again) Years ago when I was thinking about a tankless water heater I believe they were only available in electric, IIRC or versa visa. Now they are availble either way. Hmmmm Thanks Heavy Duty!!
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Post by RufusTeleStrat on Apr 6, 2023 11:05:51 GMT -5
I had a gas one in 2009, but it required a larger feed line.
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Post by HeavyDuty on Apr 6, 2023 12:05:57 GMT -5
I have Propane, after awhile you get to sense and know when its time to check and keep a closer eye on the gauge. Plus we are outside quite alot. I'm curious to know more about the instant hot water, is that just at the kitchen sink or a whole house system? Whole house. |
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Post by HeavyDuty on Apr 6, 2023 12:06:26 GMT -5
If you want convenience, go with the company-monitored sensor. If you want independence, check the gauge on the tank once per month. I've never trusted the remote sensors on these because it adds layers to the process that can break down. Good point - eyeballs are less likely to fail (for now, anyway.) |
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Post by NoSoapRadio on Apr 6, 2023 12:32:42 GMT -5
I didn't have a choice -- my propane company owns the tanks. That arrangement came with the house when we bought it 30 years ago. Back then they would set us up on a schedule based on historical usage which generally worked fine. When they replaced old tanks with new ones they installed the device on one of the tanks. They didn't ask me, just did it. It didn't cost me anything so I had nothing to complain about. We have three 150 gallon tanks and each has an analog gauge. Before they swapped the tanks they would self level -- if one tank read 50% they all did. Now the tanks all read differently -- the one with the sender always reads low, the tank in the middle reads about 20% higher, and the last tank reads higher than the middle tank. I asked the delivery guy why that is and he said he didn't know.
I have the option of automatic deliveries or going on will-call. Right now I'm on will-call -- I have enough gas to finish out the season so I don't want to pay for another delivery at winter prices. I'll probably call for a delivery in August and switch to automatic fill ups and see how it goes. When I call for a delivery they always show up within five business days.
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