In its natural state, propane is an odorless gas. As a safety precaution, a chemical called ethyl mercaptan is added so that any presence of propane may be easily detected. The concentration level of ethyl mercaptan that is added to propane is not harmful.

Yes. Propane is an approved, clean fuel listed in the 1990 Clean Air Act and the Energy Policy Act of 1992. Propane is one of the cleanest burning of all fossil fuels. Tests conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency show that propane-fueled vehicles produce 30% to 90% less carbon monoxide and about 50% fewer toxins and other smog-producing emissions than gasoline engines. Propane also is non-toxic, so it's not harmful to soil or water. In the unlikely event of a leak, propane will dissipate into a vapor, leaving no lasting effect on the surrounding environment.

Propane tanks are most commonly referred to by their water capacity volume, and propane tanks are normally filled to 80% of its water capacity. For example, a 120-gallon tank will hold approximately 100 gallons of propane when completely full. Since propane is stored in a liquid state under pressure, it needs room to expand into a vapor. This extra "room" that is in the tank allows for that expansion. Depending on the ambient temperature outside, propane may expand more or less.

Propane Tank Capacities (assuming 80% of tank water capacity)

• 20lb Propane Tank - 3.5 Propane Gallons
• 100lb Propane Tank - 24 Propane Gallons
• 420lb Propane Tank (120 Gallon WC) - 100 Propane Gallons
• 500 Gallon Propane Tank (500 Gallon WC) - 400 Propane Gallons
• 1,000 Gallon Propane Tank (1000 Gallon WC) - 800 Propane Gallons

Propane heat is more economical and more efficient than electric heat. Virtually anything in your house, restaurant or building that can run on electricity can run on propane. However, the cost of a propane-fueled home is actually less than the cost of a home with electric heat.

While some homeowners own their propane tank outright, others rent it from a fuel provider like United Cooperative. If the previous owner of the home rented the tank from us, we would be happy to transfer the tank rental agreement and establish service when the home is sold. 

If you’re a new propane customer, homeowner, or you would like to switch to propane heat, you can rely on United Cooperative. We will work with you to establish service with pricing and delivery options to meet your needs.

According to the Wisconsin Container Law, for a leased propane tank, only the company that owns it can fill it. If you are a new homeowner and you have questions regarding who owns the tank on your property, please contact us to review service and rental agreements.

Like other fuels, such as oil or natural gas, propane is perfectly safe for use as a home heating fuel. Propane itself is non-toxic, so it will not cause health issues. Like any heating system, following manufacturer guidelines for proper use makes using this heating system safe and effective. Propane heating systems are extremely safe, like any other system to heat your home.