Propane is one of the most common ways to heat homes and power appliances. In fact, more than 50 million American households use propane every day in some form.
This means homeowners have dozens of options to choose from when getting their propane takes refilled on a regular basis.
While many homeowners manage to find a propane company they’re happy working with for years, others end up with providers that fail to meet their needs. If you’re one of them, you’re likely wondering if switching propane companies is a good idea.
The answer depends on your situation, but there are a few tell-tale signs you should watch for. Here’s what you need to know.
1. You’re Not Getting Deliveries on Time
You rely on your propane company to keep your tank full throughout the colder months. This means they need to stick to their delivery schedule as closely as possible. Otherwise, you risk running out of propane right when you need it most.
If your propane supplier consistently delivers fuel on time, you’re in good shape. However, if they’re always late or keep missing deliveries altogether, it’s time to start looking at switching propane companies.
This is a sure-fire sign that your propane supplier doesn’t prioritize your comfort and safety. The sooner you can switch companies, the better off you’ll be.
When you switch, you’ll be able to choose a company that has a delivery schedule that meets your needs. They’ll be able to refill your tank on time and keep your home supplied with the fuel it needs year-round.
2. The Company’s Customers Service Is Lacking
It’s normal to have to contact your propane supplier throughout the year. Whether it’s to schedule deliveries, handle questions about your bill, or even to schedule maintenance for your lines, the company should always be kind and responsive.
Think about how your company treats you when you contact them.
Are they responsive? Do they take the time to answer your questions in detail? Do they listen to your concerns?
If not, switching companies is a great option. Great customer service shows that the company cares about you and your family. This often means they’ll do what they can to make sure you have enough fuel at all times and, if you have problems with maintenance, they’ll address those problems quickly.
When you make the decision to switch propane suppliers, get quotes from several companies. Pay attention to how each representative treats you when you call about their services. As a general rule, it’s best to choose the supplier that you’re most comfortable with.
Remember, great customer service means you’re less likely to deal with resistance when you need an emergency refill or have problems with your tank.
3. The Fees Keep Going Up
When you signed up for service with your current provider, you likely locked in a set rate for deliveries, tank rentals, maintenance, and other associated fees. That doesn’t mean those fees will stay the same indefinitely.
In fact, some companies can end up increasing their fees without warning. Worse, they may end up overcharging you for the propane itself.
If you’re noticing that the company is nickel and diming you with every delivery you schedule, it’s time to switch providers. If your tank rental fees keep going up each year, it’s time to start looking for a new company.
When you switch companies, you may be able to take advantage of certain discounts as a new customer. Even better, you’ll be able to shop around and choose the provider that offers you the lowest fees possible.
Depending on the rates your old company was charging, you could end up saving hundreds of dollars over the course of the winter.
4. They’re Not Maintaining Your Tank
There’s more to propane delivery than just making sure your tank stays full. You also need to keep the tank and propane lines in good condition. Remember, even small leaks and problems can be a major safety hazard for you and your family.
Unfortunately, not all companies offer ongoing maintenance to their customers. This means it’s up to you to find a reputable and trustworthy repair technician to make sure your tank is in good shape. Though it’s possible to maintain your own tank, it’s always easier if your delivery company can handle the task for you.
They know the common warning signs to watch for and can do a cursory inspection of your tank every time they come to your property.
If your current provider doesn’t offer maintenance, start looking for a new company. This way, you’ll only have to work with a single propane service rather than hiring a separate contractor to keep your tank in good working order.
5. Your Contract Is Up
Most propane suppliers ask you to commit to a contract when you sign up for service. This guarantees that you work with them for a set period of time. If you choose to break the contract, you could face high cancellation fees. However, at the end of your contract, you’re free to shop around.
Remember, different companies charge different fees and rates for fuel and deliveries. The more you can shop around, the easier it will be to find a great deal.
If your contract is up, consider switching propane companies. Get quotes, compare the quality of other companies’ customer service, and see how they compare to your current provider.
If you’re happy with the service you’ve received, you can always renew your contract. However, if you’re ready to try something new, switching at the end of your contract is always a good idea.
Are You Ready to Switch to a New Propane Company?
Making the decision to switch to a new propane supplier isn’t always simple. Keep these signs in mind and think about how your current propane company is doing.
If you’re happy with their service and the rates they’re charging, you can always stay with them. However, if you’re dissatisfied with their service or just want to explore your options, switching providers can be a great choice.
If you’re ready to make the switch to a propane company that cares about you and your family, don’t wait. Contact us today to speak with our team.