PepUp has been installing propane tanks on Delmarva since 1963. We hear lots of questions about where to put a new propane tank. When it comes to safety, the ideal location for your home propane tank depends on the size of the tank and a few key considerations regarding buildings and property lines.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) requirements state that propane tanks that hold more than 100 gallons be set at least 10 feet away from buildings, appliances (including generators), and property lines. That’s the minimum setback for 250- to 500-gallon tanks, which are the most common large tank sizes for residential propane service in Delaware and Maryland.

Sometimes, homeowners choose 1,000-gallon propane tanks. When those larger tanks are set above ground, they are often required to be 25 feet from any structures or property lines.

Underground tanks, regardless of size, require a 10-foot setback. They must be buried at minimum depths and with specific hole sizes, depending on the size of the tank. See all the State of Delaware Requirements for Underground Storage Tank Systems if you’re unsure about the regulations that apply to your underground propane tank.

You can locate your propane tank near your driveway to make it easier to fill and check levels. The tank needs to be at least 5 feet from your driveway, and no more than 80 feet from where the propane delivery truck will need to park for refills.

While concrete isn’t a requirement for residential propane tanks, it does provide the firm, level surface required for an above-ground installation. Underground tanks may have their feet encased in concrete footings to eliminate “tank floating,” so be sure you ask your propane installer how they’ll be securing your tank in its permanent location.

Many PepUp customers with larger propane tanks appreciate the curb appeal of underground installations. Tanks are buried with just a few inches of the top of the dome visible for easy access and filling.

Propane tanks require open space directly above them to allow for venting. For above-ground tanks, that safety rule is one that limits how much a tank can be hidden. They shouldn’t be enclosed in a structure, but decorative fencing and plantings that still allow 360-degree access to the tank for inspections can work nicely to improve a tank’s appearance in your yard and even help shelter your propane system from the effects of harsh winter weather and excessive summer heat.

PepUp Energy Specialists understand homeowner concerns and want to make sure your propane tank is set in just the right location for safety and accessibility. Contact us to talk through your concerns and questions. We’ll help you find just the right spot for your tank, then send out our expert installation team to get the job done right.

It’s important to keep an eye on your propane tank’s fuel level to prevent running out of gas, which would require ordering an emergency propane delivery. That’s why so many PepUp customers choose Automatic Delivery services to minimize the risk that their home’s propane will run out, especially during the winter months.

Home propane tanks are equipped with a gauge that indicates the current fuel level. The gauge features a needle pointing at a number that indicates the tank’s percentage fill level. If the needle is in the red zone or near empty, it’s an indication that your tank is running on empty and needs refilling.

We recommend calling to request a delivery when the tank is showing 30%. This allows us plenty of time to make a delivery before you run the risk of running empty. When your propane tank levels are lower than 30%, there are a few things you might notice that indicate it’s time for a delivery.

• Appliances quit working properly. When a propane tank is running low, appliances that use propane may exhibit reduced performance. They may produce a lower flame or struggle to maintain a consistent temperature. If you notice a decrease in the efficiency of your propane-powered appliances, it could be an indication that your tank is nearing empty.
• Sulfur smell or difficulty lighting. Propane has a distinct odor, often described as similar to rotten eggs, which is added to aid in detecting gas leaks. When a propane tank is almost empty, you may smell that additive around your tank. Also, if you experience difficulty lighting your propane appliance, it may be due to a lack of gas.
• Orange or yellow flames from your stove top burners. Propane flames typically burn with a blue color when the fuel supply is sufficient. When there isn’t enough propane reaching the burner, the flame may fail to burn efficiently, resulting in a change of color to yellow or even orange. Other factors like a dirty burner or insufficient air intake can also cause a change in flame color, so only consider flame color an indicator of low levels when accompanied by one of these other signs.

1. Check your tank gauge if you can do it safely to confirm low tank levels.
2. Keep calm, and call PepUp to schedule emergency home propane delivery. PepUp’s primary customer service number is answered 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and we always have drivers and technicians on call to help our customers with emergencies. Call 800-638-7802 right away if you suspect your tank is empty.
3. Make sure your propane tank is accessible for your driver.
4. While you wait, secure alternative heat sources if you’re without heat in the winter. This could involve using electric space heaters to keep warm and keep plumbing pipes from freezing. Avoid using potentially dangerous heating methods (like open flames or inappropriate heating devices), as they can pose a risk to your safety and property. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any alternative heat sources you’re using and ensure proper ventilation. Here are some helpful tips about safe space heater and fireplace use.
5. Insulate and conserve heat. Close doors, windows, and curtains to minimize heat loss. Use blankets, layer clothing, and focus on one or a few smaller rooms to stay warm until the propane is refilled.
6. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help. If you’re experiencing extremely cold temperatures and have elderly, very young, or special-needs family members, let us know when you call. Depending on your delivery timeline, you may need to visit someone with heat or request help getting fragile family members to a warm location.

PepUp’s Automatic Delivery service is insurance against getting caught without home propane. Our “No Run Out” Guarantee means never having to worry about running out of propane when it’s cold out and your home – and family – depend on propane-powered heat.

If you find yourself in need of an emergency tank refill, take the steps outlined above to get your tank refilled quickly. Then, consider signing up for The Promise Plan with Automatic Delivery. PepUp takes your home energy needs seriously, and will make sure your home stays fully fueled and warm when you need it most. Best of all, The Promise Plan makes it easier for you to budget for annual propane needs by spreading out your costs over the whole year.

Propane gas is a popular fuel for the primary heating of homes in Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, and all over the PepUp service area. Our local propane delivery and service customers rely on our experienced team to keep their propane tanks from running out using our Automatic Delivery Service and “No Run Out” Guarantee.

Even when we’re making sure your propane tank doesn’t run out, it’s helpful to understand how much propane your home will use in a year. If you’re considering adding propane heating to your existing home, building a home and using propane heat and appliances, or even just budgeting for a relentlessly wet and cold Mid-Atlantic winter, PepUp is here to help. We’ve put together a few tips, a formula, and even a handy calculator tool for figuring up your home’s propane gas needs.

You may see or hear propane referred to as propane gas or LPG: Liquefied Petroleum Gas. LPG is usually a mixture of propane gas and butane, two liquid natural gas products that are mixed to deliver clean-burning and efficient fuel to meet home heating, cooking, and comfort needs.

Propane gas is compressed and stored as a liquid in tanks outside the home. Tanks usually range in size from 100 gallons to 1000 gallons, and can be placed above ground or below ground. The colorless, non-toxic propane is piped into the home. Propane is naturally almost odorless, so for safety, an odor is added to alert people to propane leaks, which can present a fire hazard if not addressed quickly.

Anytime you suspect a propane leak, call PepUp 24/7 for emergency propane service.

The amount of propane gas your home will use in a year depends on six (6) primary factors:

1. What appliances use propane in your home
2. The efficiency of those appliances
3. The number of annual heating degree days (below 65 degrees) in your area
4. Your home’s size and efficiency factors like insulation R-value
5. The number of people living in your home
6. Where you like to set the thermostat in the winter

Let’s break these factors down even further so you can take inventory of your home propane needs.

Propane usage depends on the number of BTUs (British Thermal Units) you’ll need to power your home’s furnace and appliances. Propane gas provides 91,547 BTUs per gallon. Each of your propane appliances is labeled with an “input” BTUh (BTUs per hour) that can help you estimate propane usage for every hour that the appliance is running.

Did you know? Every new PepUp customer works with our Energy Specialists to determine their unique home propane needs. Hit the easy button and schedule a call to learn about your home’s propane needs.

Use the steps below for a more accurate calculation of your home’s energy needs, in gallons of propane, each year. Or, skip ahead to use our calculator that can provide you with a rough estimate of your home’s energy needs each month, based on standard appliance energy usage.

If you’d rather work with a professional to determine your home’s energy needs, speak with a PepUp Energy Specialist about the average home propane use we see in the local area, or the estimate you determined by using the calculator. The details can come later, but knowing what size tank you’ll need and how often you’ll need propane delivered will help you plan for your energy budget and get your home propane addition or conversion project underway. Any questions? Just ask PepUp!

PepUp, Delmarva’s leading provider of propane and fuel solutions, proudly celebrates the ongoing impact of the Lee & Audrey McMahan Endowed Scholarship at Chesapeake College.

Established in 1992 by Keith McMahan in honor of his parents, this scholarship reflects the McMahan family’s deep-rooted commitment to education, community, and opportunity for PepUp employees and their families.

The McMahan family’s connection to Chesapeake College is woven through decades of service and leadership. Nash McMahan, a third-generation family owner and current president of PepUp, served on the Chesapeake College Board of Trustees from 2010 to 2024, including a term as board chair.

During his tenure, Nash played a vital role in guiding the college’s strategic direction and supporting student success across the region.

The Lee & Audrey McMahan Endowed Scholarship is available to PepUp employees and their dependents, offering first access to funds for tuition, fees, and books at Chesapeake College.

The scholarship also supports workforce certification programs, empowering recipients to advance their skills and careers. Awards are granted on a first-come, first-qualified basis, ensuring that opportunities are accessible and impactful for those who need them most.

From Lee D. McMahan’s founding of McMahan Poultry Co. in 1946 to the growth of Tri Gas & Oil and the evolution into PepUp, the McMahan family’s legacy is built on service, ethics, and a genuine connection to the Delmarva community. Audrey McMahan’s leadership in local organizations and her instrumental role in starting Caroline County Hospice further exemplify the family’s dedication to giving back.

PepUp’s story is one of faith, family, and community. The Lee & Audrey McMahan Endowed Scholarship stands as a testament to these values, supporting the educational dreams of PepUp families and strengthening the region for generations to come.

For more information about the scholarship and Chesapeake College programs, contact Amber McGinnis, Director of Development & Executive Director of the Chesapeake College Foundation, at 410-827-5866 or amcginnis@chesapeake.edu.

What if your campus shuttle could run on renewable biodiesel fuel without replacing a single engine? American University did just that—and reached carbon neutrality in the process, a full two years ahead of schedule.

American University is nationally recognized for its commitment to sustainability, achieving carbon neutrality in 2018 and setting ambitious goals for zero waste by 2030. As part of the university’s sustainable action plan, researchers identified that 39% of all of the university’s greenhouse gas emissions were attributable to transportation.

Source: https://unhsimap.org/public/institution/157

A key part of achieving carbon neutrality was a project to transition a portion of the campus bus fleet to biodiesel, a renewable alternative to traditional diesel fuel. This move significantly reduced American University’s carbon footprint and set a model for sustainable campus operations. To tackle such a large initiative, the AU fleet management team chose PepUp as the university’s trusted fuel supplier.

American University’s journey toward a greener fleet began in 2000, when it started using biodiesel in its shuttle buses. As the university’s needs grew, it turned to PepUp for dependable fuel delivery, storage, and quality assurance.

Today, select university shuttle buses run on biodiesel blends, with the fuel blend adjusted seasonally: B5 (5% biodiesel) in winter and B20 (20% biodiesel) in summer. This fueling plan, developed by AU’s fleet manager and the university’s PepUp account manager, ensures optimal performance in all weather conditions.

PepUp’s infrastructure has been essential to the success of AU’s journey to lower-emissions transit. While American University has a 1,000-gallon on-site tank, PepUp’s large-scale storage in Baltimore and dedicated bulk fuel delivery fleet ensures a steady fuel supply even when demand spikes.

Fuel quality and reliable delivery are critical to the success of any biodiesel program. PepUp is committed to providing high-quality biodiesel that meets strict industry standards.

PepUp Account Manager Seth Powell has managed American University’s fleet fuel account for more than 15 years, and he understands the fleet’s needs and American University’s sustainability goals. Powell works closely with American University’s fleet manager to recommend the right biodiesel blends and advise on best practices for storage and use, especially during cold weather.

Powell says AU’s eco-friendly fleet transition project proves biofuels can make fleet operations more sustainable and environmentally friendly.

“It’s absolutely a viable option,” Powell explained, citing other education and municipal transportation fleets that made a similar transition when federal incentives made biodiesel more affordable. “It’s a renewable resource, but it is more expensive. The reality is that the push to move away from fossil fuels completely (and move to electric vehicles) isn’t a viable option, but biodiesel is the bridge fuel that can be used in existing fleets, sometimes without modification.”

Powell’s relationship with the AU fleet manager means American University continues to receive expert guidance from PepUp, from choosing the right blend to troubleshooting any operational questions. PepUp’s experience with other large institutional fleets ensures that AU benefits from proven solutions and lessons learned across the region.

• Reduced Emissions: Switching to biodiesel has cut greenhouse gas emissions from campus buses, supporting American University’s net-zero goals. See the results in this public reporting dashboard.
• Operational Efficiency: On-site fueling and scheduled bulk deliveries have streamlined operations and reduced costs.
• No Major Modifications: American University’s existing diesel buses required no significant changes to run on biodiesel blends, making the transition smooth and cost-effective.
• Education and Buy-In: Success depended on buy-in from all university stakeholders. Ongoing education and clear communication helped address early misconceptions about biodiesel and built strong support among staff and students.

American University’s experience shows that biodiesel is a practical, reliable bridge fuel as institutions work toward greener transportation. The partnership with PepUp demonstrates how the right supplier can make a big difference – not just by delivering fuel, but also by supporting every step of the journey to sustainability.

Want to make your fleet more sustainable—without overhauling your vehicles? See how PepUp can help you fuel smarter, cleaner, and more reliably. Speak with a PepUp Energy Specialist, who will connect you with a fleet fuels account manager to discuss your fleet needs.

Explore how PepUp supports fleets of all types and sizes with the knowledge and infrastructure to provide reliable fleet fuel delivery of up to 7,500 gallons of fuel, as often as twice weekly.

For over six decades, PepUp has been Delmarva’s trusted partner for commercial fleet fuel solutions, serving businesses in construction, transportation, agriculture, and fisheries. We help you overcome the high costs, delayed deliveries, and fleet downtime you may have experienced with other fuel companies. PepUp offers the tailored strategies and personal attention that keep your operations moving.

PepUp serves local and regional fleet customers with bulk fuel discounts and locked-in pricing to stabilize budgets. Our dedicated account managers ensure timely deliveries, with 24/7 emergency services and wireless tank monitoring. We help minimize downtime through onsite fuel delivery and a fuel account option with 24-hour gas stations to keep your fleet rolling.

A lack of immediate fuel help and support can cripple operations, but PepUp transforms this challenge through personalized relationships with dedicated account managers who serve as proactive allies for your business.

Unlike transactional suppliers, our account managers build trust by understanding your fleet’s unique demands. Whether you’re operating a construction site running low on diesel, or a fishing fleet needing emergency fuel delivery, your PepUp rep is a quick phone call away. We pair this hands-on partnership with customizable purchase options (locked-in pricing, bulk discounts) and delivery schedules tailored to your fuel use, ensuring fuel arrives precisely when and where it’s needed.

Backed by decades of local expertise, PepUp has a proven reputation for rapid problem-solving: from deploying automated tank monitoring to prevent outages to adjusting delivery routes during supply disruptions. With us, you’re not just a customer—you’re a priority, supported by a team that answers your calls personally and delivers solutions faster than competitors.

Across the PepUp fleet fuels service area, the demand for diverse and reliable fleet fuel solutions is driven by industries ranging from agriculture to transportation. PepUp specializes in meeting these needs with a variety of readily available fuel options:

• Biodiesel blends (B2-B99.9) and custom blends
• On- and off-road diesel
• Gasoline
• E89 or Ethanol-Free
• Propane

Biodiesel, a blend of petroleum diesel and soybean-based fuel, has emerged as a front-runner for meeting air quality emissions targets due to its seamless integration into existing fleets. Alternative fuels such as biodiesel blends help fleet owners address sustainability goals, reduce operational costs, and comply with evolving regulations.

Blends like B20 (20% biodiesel, 80% petroleum diesel) require no vehicle modifications, preserve engine warranties in most cases, and enhance performance with higher cetane numbers and improved lubricity—reducing after-treatment failures in diesel particulate filters. For maritime fleets, biodiesel blends like B20 offer an immediate carbon reduction (up to 15% per blend), meeting coastal air-quality and environmental emissions standards.

Propane also serves as a versatile alternative for auxiliary equipment and fleets seeking lower-carbon options, particularly in urban areas where emissions regulations are stringent. Regional initiatives, such as Virginia’s state-supported biodiesel and propane partnerships, incentivize adoption through infrastructure grants and fleet conversion programs
Cost remains a critical driver: biodiesel blends (B20) are often priced lower than petroleum diesel. Higher blends like B99-B100, while pricier, deliver deeper carbon cuts (up to 86% lifecycle reductions), appealing to fleets targeting net-zero goals. As Mid-Atlantic states expand alternative fuel corridors, biofuels are poised to bridge the gap between current operations and long-term electrification strategies.

Always consult your vehicle’s manufacturer specifications and warranty before using or converting diesel engines to run on soy biodiesel blends.

PepUp empowers commercial fleets with fully customizable fuel solutions, addressing operational and financial needs through custom fuels, deliveries based on your business needs, and price risk management tools.

Price Risk Management

• Locked-In Contracts: Stabilize budgets amid market volatility (e.g., diesel price swings).
• Pre-Buy Agreements: Secure lower rates during price dips.
• Swaps (OTC): Hedge against regional supply disruptions.

Each fleet is assigned a local account manager to manage blends, delivery schedules, or contracts as needs evolve. By combining local industry expertise with dynamic service and delivery models, PepUp ensures fleets never compromise efficiency, sustainability, or reliability.

The PepUp Fuel Account redefines fleet fueling convenience with 24/7 access to strategically located PepUp gas stations in Dagsboro, DE (open to the public) and Federalsburg, MD (exclusive to account holders).

This unique PepUp solution combines self-service flexibility with cost-control tools tailored to our Mid-Atlantic fleet customers:

• 24/7 Fueling: Access diesel, unleaded gasoline (87/89/93), and ethanol-free gasoline at any hour.
• Bulk Discounts: Account holders receive preferential pricing on high-volume orders, particularly for diesel and biodiesel blends used in heavy-duty applications.
• Exclusive Offerings: The PepUp Federalsburg District Office provides B100 soy biodiesel during business hours, supporting fleets transitioning to higher renewable blends.

PepUp integrates station access with custom delivery options (e.g., onsite jobsite fueling) and price-risk management tools (locked-in contracts, pre-buy agreements), so our fuel customers get the benefits of personalized delivery and readily available options when on the road.

In a market crowded with national suppliers and regional players, PepUp distinguishes itself through a dedication to community, customer-focused flexibility, and solutions built to serve local business needs.

While competitors prioritize scale, PepUp thrives on serving our neighbors and our community–all while maintaining 50 fuel delivery trailers and five rail stations to support our large-scale storage and delivery supply chain. We make sure we can deliver the fuel our customers need, but it’s our attention to service and relationships that has built our reputation as one of the Mid-Atlantic’s top regional fleet fuel providers.

Contact PepUp’s fleet fuel specialists today to:

1. Request a Custom Fuel Plan: Optimize blends, delivery schedules, and pricing for your fleet.
2. Explore the PepUp Fuel Account: Gain 24/7 station access and convenience.
3. Discuss Sustainability Goals: Transition to biodiesel or propane with the expert guidance of your dedicated account manager.

Call 800-638-7802 or visit pepupinc.com/propane-fuels-oil-delivery/ to schedule a consultation with a PepUp fleet fuels specialist. Let’s fuel your business efficiently, reliably, and with a partner you can trust.

Propane heat is a reliable, efficient, and worthwhile investment for homeowners in the Delmarva region. It’s also easy to add to your existing energy mix, since it can be added to existing homes – and new builds – with the addition of supply lines and a propane storage tank that’s appropriately sized for your home.

Without a doubt, the best time to schedule your propane heat conversion project in the Mid-Atlantic is during the summer months. Here are a few pros and cons you can consider when deciding when you’ll add propane to your home.

Summer Propane Installation Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Easier scheduling with propane companies.
• Favorable weather conditions for outdoor work.
• Ample time to test and adjust before the heating season.
• Propane cost per gallon is lowest when heating demand is low in the summer.

Cons:

• Won’t be able to enjoy the fireplace or outdoor patio heaters until cooler weather.
• Unable to test heating in winter conditions.

Winter Propane Installation Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Immediate testing of the heating system in real-world conditions.

Cons:

• Possible interruption of heat and other connected appliances during conversion.
• Potentially harder to schedule installations.
• Possibility of weather delays.

Adding propane heat to your home requires some planning and cost considerations, but our customers tell us they enjoy the comfort and convenience of propane all year round. Its efficiency and cost savings for winter heating aren’t the only benefits; propane tankless water heaters offer endless, on-demand hot water, and propane fireplace and cooking benefits are just two more ways propane can have a positive impact on your home.

Contact PepUp today to learn more about our current special offers, and speak with an Energy Specialist about your propane heat conversion project. Our team will assess your needs, provide a detailed quote, and guide you through every step of the process. Let’s talk!

If you’re considering propane for home heating or appliances, you may have questions about safety, sustainability, efficiency, and what’s involved when you add propane to your home. Whether you’re looking to switch from electric or oil heating, or simply want the ease and convenience of a propane tankless water heater, cooking appliances, or propane fireplace inserts, we’ve created this guide to walk you through the big questions around residential propane.

Let’s start with the basics.

Propane, also known as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), is a byproduct of natural gas processing and petroleum refining that is an inexpensive and efficient fuel option for many homeowners. It is most often used in our area to power home furnaces and appliances, and it also has quite a few commercial, fleet, and agricultural applications.

Propane has clean-burning properties and lower emissions compared to other fossil fuels. Here’s a detailed look at why propane is better for the environment:

1. Low Carbon Emissions: Propane produces fewer greenhouse gases than gasoline or diesel. For example, burning one gallon of propane emits 12.61 pounds of CO2, which is significantly lower than other conventional fuels. Propane-powered vehicles also emit up to 25% fewer greenhouse gases and 60% less carbon monoxide compared to gasoline-powered vehicles.
2. Clean Burning: Propane is listed as an approved clean energy source under the 1990 Clean Air Act. It does not emit harmful pollutants such as sulfur dioxide, methane, nitrogen oxides, or particulate matter, contributing to cleaner air and reduced acid rain.
3. Minimal Environmental Impact from Spills: Unlike oil spills, propane evaporates into the air quickly without contaminating soil or water sources. This makes it safer for sensitive habitats like waterways and marine ecosystems.
4. Lower Carbon Intensity: Propane has a lower carbon intensity compared to electricity generated from the U.S. grid or other fossil fuels, making it a more sustainable choice for residential heating and industrial applications.

While propane does emit carbon dioxide during combustion, its overall environmental impact is much smaller than other fossil fuels. Its clean-burning nature and versatility make it a practical and eco-friendly choice for households and businesses.

Propane is safe when stored, handled, and used properly, just like any energy source. When propane is used in a home, it’s also important to monitor for leaks and the production of carbon monoxide.

Safety considerations:

• Proper storage is crucial. Propane tanks should never be stored indoors or in enclosed areas like basements, garages, or sheds. Select the right size propane tank for your home, and make sure it’s placed in a location that meets all local regulations and provides easy access for service and deliveries.
• Only use propane appliances as intended. Outdoor appliances should never be used indoors due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Regular maintenance and proper installation of propane systems by qualified professionals is essential.
• Propane has a distinct “rotten egg” odor added to help detect leaks. If you smell it, clear the area and call for emergency propane service.

While propane requires safe handling and respect for its more volatile properties, following proper safety guidelines and regulations ensures that your family will be safe with a supply of propane on site.

Potential hazards:

• Propane is highly flammable and can ignite explosively if exposed to heat or ignition sources. That’s why you never want to allow flames or sparks near a leaking tank or supply line.
• Propane tanks can explode if exposed to extreme heat or pressure.

While propane requires safe handling and respect for its more volatile properties, following proper safety guidelines and regulations ensures that your family will be safe with a supply of propane on site.

Propane is generally more efficient for home heating compared to electricity and is competitive with heating oil. Here’s a breakdown of the efficiency and reliability comparisons, along with initial and ongoing cost considerations of each energy source:

*compared to electricity generated using fossil fuels

**depending on system requirements

Key Comparison Take-Aways:

Propane: Offers a balance of high efficiency and moderate costs per million BTUs while delivering warmer air for comfort. Here’s a breakdown of how to calculate your home’s propane needs, based on how you’ll be using it to power heating systems and appliances. Here’s a breakdown of what factors influence propane cost per gallon.

Electricity: Has the highest efficiency but tends to be more expensive due to higher costs per kWh and potential power plant inefficiencies.

Heating Oil: Delivers the most heat per gallon but has higher emissions and fluctuating costs depending on market conditions. Many homes in our area have older oil furnaces, and they’re much less efficient than modern propane furnaces. Instead of replacing those systems, many homeowners opt to replace their oil heat furnaces with more efficient, cleaner-burning propane heat systems. If you choose to keep your heating oil system, use this guide to residential heating oil to operate and maintain your system effectively.

Propane offers lots of advantages for homeowners, making it an attractive option for those looking to cut energy bills and improve their home’s efficiency.

1. Energy Efficiency: Propane appliances often operate more efficiently than their electric counterparts, potentially leading to lower energy bills.
2. Versatility: From heating and cooking to powering generators and fireplaces, propane can fuel a wide range of home appliances. If you’re on the fence about which appliances you’ll convert to propane, read about our techs’ top propane appliance picks.
3. Reliability: Propane systems can continue to operate during power outages, providing a reliable source of heat and energy.
4. Environmental Impact: As a clean-burning fuel, propane produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to many other fossil fuels.
5. Cost-Effectiveness: In many regions, propane can be more affordable than electricity for heating and cooking.

Propane can be used for various applications in your home, including:

1. Home Heating: Propane home furnaces and boilers can efficiently heat your entire home.
2. Water Heating: Tankless propane water heaters provide on-demand hot water, saving energy and space.
3. Cooking: Propane stoves and ovens offer precise temperature control for cooking enthusiasts.
4. Clothes Drying: Propane dryers can dry clothes faster and more efficiently than electric models.
5. Fireplaces and Fire Pits: Enjoy the ambiance of a fire without the hassle of wood with propane-powered fireplaces and outdoor fire pits and patio heaters.
6. Backup Generators: Ensure your home has power during outages with a propane-powered generator.
7. Propane Pool Heaters: An LPG pool heater can extend your swimming season without the high cost of an electric heater.

Choosing the right propane tank size is crucial for ensuring you have an adequate fuel supply for your needs. Tank sizes typically range from 100 to 1,000 gallons for residential use. Connect with a PepUp Energy Specialist to walk through your home’s unique needs, and we’ll help you choose the right sized tank and make sure it’s in a safe location that’s accessible for propane deliveries.

Factors to consider when choosing a tank size:

• Home size (when using propane for heat)
• Number of people living in the home
• Propane appliances: type, efficiency rating, and average hourly propane usage
• Climate and average number of heating days per year
• Frequency of desired refills
• Tank placement options (larger tanks require more distance from the home)

Tank Installation

Propane tank installation should always be performed by certified professionals to ensure safety and compliance with local regulations. Comfort Plus Services, a trusted HVAC and plumbing company that is part of the Tri Gas Family of Companies, can assist with adding supply lines for appliances when needed. PepUp technicians and drivers provide professional tank installation, supply line installation, and safety checks.

Knowing how to check your propane tank level is important when you’re depending on propane for cooking, hot water, or heating. Here are two methods of monitoring your tank levels:

Gauge Reading: Most modern tanks have a built-in gauge that displays the fuel level as a percentage. Always call for a delivery when you’re close to 30% full. A full tank should read 80%, because we leave room in the tank for expansion of the liquid.

Wireless Monitoring: The easiest way to always know your propane levels without stepping outside is to install a wireless propane tank monitor. PepUp installs these devices and monitors tank levels for many of our Automatic Delivery customers, who can access the monitor’s readings via a smartphone app. The best part is that we’ll see when you’re running low and call you to schedule a delivery, so you don’t have to worry about running out of propane.

Benefits of Automatic Delivery:

• Peace of Mind: Never worry about running out of propane while you’re away.
• Consistent Comfort: Maintain a comfortable temperature in your home year-round.
• Protection Against Weather Damage: Prevent frozen pipes and other cold-weather issues, especially if there are times during the year that your home is unoccupied.
• Convenience: No need to schedule deliveries or check tank levels manually. We’ll do it for you, and Promise Plan customers receive priority tank fills.

Automatic Delivery from PepUp comes with a “No Run Out” Guarantee. When paired with The Promise Plan, this means you’ll never run out of propane, you’ll pay a fixed price per gallon, and you won’t have to worry about checking tank levels or calling for delivery. It’s truly the easiest option, and that’s why it’s popular with many Rehoboth Beach residents whose homes are occupied part-time, or whose homes are listed on vacation home rental sites.

Propane prices in the Mid-Atlantic region are generally stable due to the proximity of a Virginia processing plant, one of two in the United States (the other is in Texas). The average residential propane price doesn’t fluctuate in our area as much as it can in others, which makes propane prices competitive with the cost of other heating fuels.

For the most up-to-date pricing information, contact PepUp for a personalized quote.

If you’re considering switching to propane or adding propane to your home, here are the steps to take:

1. Assess Your Needs: Determine which appliances you want to run on propane and estimate your usage.
2. Choose a Tank Size: Based on your needs, select an appropriate tank size.
3. Schedule an Installation: Work with our residential propane team to install your tank and run gas lines.
4. Install Propane Appliances: We’ll help you walk through what other HVAC or plumbing changes you might need to make early in the process.
5. Set Up a Delivery Schedule: Choose between Will Call or Automatic Delivery for your propane refills, and consider one of our payment options like The Promise Plan.

Now that you’re ready to make informed decisions about incorporating propane into your home, call on our trusted Energy Specialists to learn more about next steps. Whether you’re considering a full conversion to propane or simply adding a propane appliance, PepUp is here to guide you through the process and ensure you have a safe, reliable propane system for years to come.

PepUp fuels local agriculture. We know a lot of farmers who grow high-quality grain crops in this high-humidity environment. From planting to harvest and grain drying, local producers use fuels from PepUp to power farming operations.

Grains like corn, wheat, and soybeans are often harvested when their moisture levels are higher than desired. For safe storage, it is recommended that grains should be dried to a moisture content of 13-15%. If they are stored without drying, high moisture content inside the grain can lead to:

• Mold Growth: Excess moisture creates a perfect environment for mold, which can ruin entire batches of grain.
• Pest Infestation: Grains at higher moisture levels attract pests looking for a meal, leading to potential contamination.
• Reduced Market Value: Buyers typically prefer low-moisture grain, and grain prices reflect that. Higher moisture may result in lower prices or a batch of grain not meeting sale requirements at all.

Given the importance of grain quality, effective drying is paramount for Delmarva farmers. This is where PepUp helps our wholesale customers in the farming community keep their crops profitable.

Grain drying can be accomplished through various methods using propane, heating oil, and kerosene. In the Delmarva region, propane is the most widely used fuel for grain drying.
Essentially, every grain drying setup follows the same basic process:

1. Setup: Farmers load their grains into a drying bin. The bin is equipped with a burner that uses propane as the fuel source.
2. Heating: The burner ignites fuel to produce hot air, which is funneled across the grains.
3. Moisture Removal: As the hot, dry air flows across the grain, it raises the temperature and draws out moisture, allowing for effective drying.

Farmers choose different fuels based on the equipment they use and their individual harvest needs. Let’s consider the top three fuels local farmers use to dry grains, and why they choose one fuel over another.

Propane is the most popular fuel choice for grain dryers in our area due to its efficiency and clean-burning nature, which helps reduce the cost of grain drying.

One of the key advantages of propane is its availability in the region, thanks to the extensive network of storage facilities PepUp maintains and our ability to deliver large quantities of propane to local farmers quickly and reliably.

Here are the top reasons why propane grain drying technology is used by 8 out of 10 farmers in our region:

• Efficiency: Propane packs quite a punch with its high energy content. It burns hotter and more evenly than other fuels, making it perfect for drying grain uniformly—something that’s important for a quality yield.
• Reliability: Propane grain drying systems offer reliability, even in remote setups. They’re highly portable, allowing farmers to take them to areas where other types of dryers can’t be fueled. This makes them perfect for rural farms.
• Cost: Because propane is so efficient, it speeds up drying times and uses less energy. This means you can save quite a bit on fuel in the long run compared to using other energy sources.
• Low-Emissions: Propane is a cleaner option than many other fuels. It releases fewer pollutants than diesel and gasoline. It’s not a greenhouse gas, so it has a lower impact on the environment. In a lot of places, it’s even less carbon-intensive than the electricity from the grid. That makes propane a nice, clean alternative for your grain drying needs, and as a bonus, it doesn’t leave the grain with an odor or taste.

The Propane Education and Research Council reports that propane grain drying systems are 50 percent more efficient than older types of systems. Use this calculator to determine how much propane you would need to dry a specific grain harvest to exactly the right moisture content.

Heating oil is another viable option for grain drying. Here’s why farmers might use heating oil to dry their grain crops:

• Efficiency: Heating oil is known for its high energy output, which helps generate a strong, consistent heat. This steady heat is key for drying grain uniformly, ensuring that every kernel is up to standard and ready for market.
• Equipment Durability: Equipment that runs on heating oil tends to be tough and long-lasting. These systems are built to withstand rough conditions, which makes them a reliable choice season after season, and even generation after generation.
• Cost Control: While fuel prices can fluctuate, pricing for heating oil remains relatively consistent over long periods of time, with less seasonal fluctuation.

Using heating oil can be advantageous in terms of cost-effectiveness, especially if farmers purchase in bulk or pre-buy contracts when heating oil prices are at their lowest. Farmers should consider their specific harvesting schedules, equipment efficiency, and storage capacity and requirements when choosing this method.

Kerosene, while less common than propane and heating oil, is still used by some farmers in the Delmarva region. Here’s why:

• Efficiency: Kerosene offers a reliable heat source, delivering consistent energy output that helps achieve even grain drying. This uniform heating is crucial for maintaining the quality of your harvest. It’s also exceptionally stable in cold weather, which gives it an edge over heating oil for farmers who need to pre-buy and store fuel throughout the year.
• Flexibility: Like propane, kerosene is a portable fuel, making it perfect for farms located in areas without easy access to a farm’s large fuel storage tanks. This flexibility means you can take the drying operation to the field instead of transporting the grain to the dryer.
• Dependability: Kerosene equipment is built to last, often with simple designs that require minimal maintenance. This makes it a dependable option for family farms to use for many years, and it’s easy to repair when needed.

While kerosene can be effective, it is important to ensure proper ventilation to avoid any buildup of fumes. Grain quality and marketability may suffer if excess hydrocarbons affect the grain’s natural smell or taste.

Farmers in the high-humidity Delmarva coastal region reduce grain moisture content through drying methods that deliver top-quality results, work with their equipment, and provide some cost-saving efficiency. PepUp delivers the fuel that helps farmers protect their investments and ensure their grains fetch the best price, without risk of spoilage and infestation.

Discover more ways local businesses rely on agricultural fuel delivery from PepUp to fuel growth, innovation, and profitability. Chances are, if you have a business that needs heat – for people, livestock, food, and even grain drying – PepUp has you covered!