If you’re looking to buy a new home, odds are one of the first questions you’re going to ask is how the building is heated. Propane heating is a major selling point, as it’s a more efficient alternative to electricity and gas products, but for those homes being heated with propane, there are a few essential questions that you need to be asking.
What is the propane being used for?
Propane is a versatile heating tool, and is often used to power things like stoves, water heaters, and various other appliances in addition to heating a home. However, if the home has recently been converted to propane, then not all appliances may be using it. To take full advantage of the propane service, you need to assess whether or not you’re willing to make the change in appliances.
Who owns the tank?
Propane tanks can come from any number of propane services, and knowing which one your propane comes from is important. Some homes buy propane tanks outright, while others rent from a fuel company. Owning generally gives you more freedom to make decisions about your homes fuel needs, but the main advantage of renting is lost. With a rental tank, you’ll need to pay monthly rental fees, but you don’t be responsible for any maintenance issues that occur.
How big is the tank?
The larger the tank, the longer you’ll be able to go without scheduling a delivery. The benefits for residential propane customers may be many, but when it’s gone, it’s gone. Tanks can range in size from 120 to over 1,000 gallons, which means you need to know the size of your tank to assess your needs.
Is the tank above or below ground?
Propane tanks can be either above or below ground, but most rental tanks are above ground because installation is much easier. Below ground tanks, on the other hand, give your yard a more aesthetically pleasing feel, as well as more room.
Any maintenance records?
The upkeep of any propane tank is crucial to its success in heating a home, and if a tank has poor maintenance records, you may have to consider investing in a new one. When looking at potential homes, this is a cost you’ll have to factor in, so attaining maintenance records could be the make or break in your decision.
Many households are switching to propane as a more efficient alternative to heating and fueling certain appliances. If you can find a recently converted home and find satisfying answers to this question, then you can safely put up the sold sign.
