Propane FAQ's

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Frequently asked questions about Propane:

1. Where Does Propane Come From?

Propane gas is a versatile energy product that can be used as heating and cooking fuel in homes and commercial locations. Propane (LP gas, bottled gas) is used primarily to provide the comforts of gas to users in regions not served by natural gas pipelines. Approximately 80% of the propane consumed in the United States is produced domestically as the result of the refining process of crude oil and natural gas. Of the remaining 20% imported by pipeline, ship, railcar or transport truck, a large percentage comes from western Canada.

2. Is Propane Gas Safe?

Absolutely, when used properly. Propane gas is colorless and odorless and environmentally benign. An odor is added to propane to alert users of it's presence in the rare event of a leak. (To be familiar with the odor of propane gas please ask us to send you a "Scratch andSniff" pamphlet from the National Propane Gas Association). Storage, use and transportation of propane fall under the strictest standards of the National Fire Protection Association, The US Department of Transportation, and your local Fire authorities.

3. How Do I Recieve Propane?

By contacting our Sales Department at 1-800-600-4728, option "4", or contacting us at sales@whitemountainoil.com we can help establish your account with our company. A sales representative will then work with you to choose the correct size and location for the propane tank which would service your home.(Propane tanks, meters and pressure regulators are loaned to the consumer and remain the property, and liabilty, of White Mountain Oil & Propane.)

4. How should I store small propane cylinders?

Never store or place a propane cylinder indoors or in an enclosed area such as a basement, garage, shed or tent.

Never store near excessive heat (120 degrees or higher) or near a stove, fireplace or other heat source. The heat will cause the pressure to build up inside the cylinder and may cause the pressure relief valve to release propane. The heat inside a closed car in the summer can also produce enough heat to trigger this relief.

Never store or place a spare cylinder under or near a barbecue grill.

Never smoke around propane cylinders.

5. I need to have my 20-pound Barbecue cylinder refilled, what should I do?

You can have your cylinder refilled at our Main office in North Conway or you can swap it out for a full one at any number of locations in the Mount Washington Valley.  When transporting the cylinder, it should be in a secure and upright position so that it will not fall or shift or roll.

Never leave the cylinder in a hot vehicle or transport in a closed trunk of a vehicle. Always proceed directly to the location you plan to have the cylinder filled/swapped at, and remove it from your vehicle immediately. The law places limits on the number of cylinders you can transport in a closed-bodied vehicle such as a passenger car or van.

6. What is an overfill prevention device (OPD)?

Make sure your cylinder is equipped with an overfill prevention device (OPD). An OPD is a safety feature that helps prevent small propane cylinders from being overfilled. An overfilled cylinder doesn't have enough space left if the liquid expands when exposed to warmer temperatures. This can cause an increas in cylinder pressure and create potentially hazardous conditions. Most cylinders with OPD's have special triangular handwheels with the letters "OPD" stamped on them. In many states, cylinders without OPD's can not be refilled. White Mountain Oil & Propane will check this feature when refilling your cylinder at our main office.

7. What should I do with my old or damaged cylinders?

Never use a damaged cylinder or a cylinder that has been in a fire. All cylinders must be inspected before they are refilled. In order to dispose of a damaged cylinder, check with your municpality to see if they will collect them.