What You’ll Learn
What should I consider before choosing or switching a propane company?
The propane company you choose affects more than just fuel prices—it impacts reliability, service quality, safety, and long-term costs.
Understanding tank ownership, contract terms, fees, and service options can help you avoid surprises and choose a propane provider that truly fits your needs.
5 Questions to Ask:
It should not be hard to switch propane suppliers!
There are several reasons you might choose to switch propane companies. Maybe the company is charging too much for propane.
Maybe you were left without a propane delivery on a cold winter’s day. Maybe you are just fed up with poor customer service.
But the bottom line is, it shouldn’t be a big hassle for you. T
The right company will be flexible and help you make the change. Being an educated consumer can help make sure you make the right choice and don’t have to make it again!
Here are a few things to know as you weigh the decision of switching propane providers.
1. Do you own or lease your propane gas tank?
If you own the propane tank, switching propane companies will be easy. If you lease your tank from the propane company, it’s going to be more difficult.
If you lease your propane tank and want to switch companies, you have a few options. When you lease your tank, you can only have the company that owns it service your propane.
So, depending on how the propane companies deal with it, here is what you might encounter.
Uninstall and reinstall
Company 1 may want its propane tank back. In this case, they will have to come to your house and unhook the propane tank. You will want to schedule your new propane company to install the new propane tank the same day to avoid any interruptions.
While switching above-ground propane tanks is fairly simple, switching propane companies when you have an underground propane tank can be a nightmare!
Purchase and resell a propane tank
It is most common for companies to require you to purchase your existing propane tank from them if you want to switch propane companies. You can choose to own your propane tank going forward, which shifts the liability to you. Alternatively, you can resell the propane tank to the new company, Company B, and lease it from them.
When you lease your tank, the liability and service fall on the company.
Purchasing and reselling your tank to the new company is more convenient than a reinstallation, but it may cost a few thousand dollars for a short period.
After you purchase the tank from Company 1, you will have to present the new company with proof of ownership. They will then purchase it from you.
Sell the propane tank directly to the new propane company
Propane companies that are more flexible will often offer to sell the propane tank directly to the new company of your choosing. If this is the case, good for you! You don’t have to be the middleman in the process.
Unfortunately, this is not a common situation when switching propane companies.
2. What are the early termination costs for switching propane companies?
If you want to end your contract early, you will probably have to shell out a little extra. If you lease your propane tank, termination fees are usually around $100
This may include a propane tank pump-out fee (tanks can’t be moved if they’re above 5% capacity), tank pick-up fees, and maybe a close-out fee.
3. What are the startup and delivery fees for the new company?
Like we said, you want switching propane companies to be easy! However, this transaction usually incurs a few additional fees. Companies may charge a delivery, installation, or tank rental fee.
If you need to install a new propane tank, ask your new supplier whether they offer a free installation and hookup for new customers. The investment is worth it to them!
4. What does your new propane gas company offer in addition to propane?
Ask if your new propane supplier also offers maintenance services for propane gas appliances. If you’re switching companies, switch to a higher-quality and more comprehensive company!
5. Low propane prices don’t always equal a high-quality propane company!
In the propane industry, you often get what you pay for. If Company A is advertising rock-bottom propane prices, there is likely a catch. It’s common for companies to reel you in with low prices, but make up the cost with hidden fees on the bill.
Tank rental fees, reconnect fees, fuel surcharges, and off-route delivery fees. You don’t want to see these add-ons on your monthly bill!
Companies that charge a little more for propane may partially pass these fees along to customers. Their prices are often steadier as a result.
Switch & Get Gallon-for-Gallon Credit.
When you switch to Kauffman Gas, you’ll get credit for the fuel you’ve already paid your current provider for.
Become a Kauffman Gas customer today and claim your credit.
FAQs
How hard is it to switch propane companies?
Switching propane companies should not be difficult, but the process depends on tank ownership and company policies.
If you own your tank, the transition is typically straightforward.
If you lease, the current company may require tank removal, pump-out fees, or the purchase of the tank before switching providers.
What fees should I expect when switching propane suppliers?
When switching propane companies, you may encounter early termination fees, tank pump-out charges, delivery fees, installation costs, or tank rental fees.
These costs vary by provider, so asking for a full breakdown upfront helps you avoid surprises and accurately compare propane companies.
Are low propane prices always a good deal?
Low advertised propane prices can be misleading. Some companies offset low per-gallon costs with hidden fees like tank rentals, reconnect charges, fuel surcharges, or off-route delivery fees.
A slightly higher propane price often includes more stable billing and fewer unexpected charges over time.
What services should a full-service propane company offer?
A quality propane company should offer more than fuel delivery.
Look for providers that include automatic delivery options, propane appliance installation and maintenance, emergency service, and responsive customer support.
Choosing a full-service propane supplier can save time, reduce stress, and improve overall home comfort.