Whether propane is fueling your home, shop, grain drying system, or livestock operation, your propane system plays an important role every day. Over time, normal wear and exposure to the elements can impact tanks, regulators, lines, and fittings. That’s why periodic propane system inspections are an important part of maintaining a safe and reliable system.
At Farmward Cooperative, our Energy team is committed to helping customers keep their propane systems operating safely and efficiently. A propane system inspection allows our team to identify visible concerns, aging components, or potential leaks before they become larger problems.
Why Propane System Inspections Matter
Many propane system components are exposed to changing weather conditions year-round. Heat, cold, moisture, movement, and age can all contribute to wear over time. Even small issues such as worn fittings, aging regulators, or damaged lines can impact system performance and safety if left unaddressed.
Routine inspections can help:
- Identify visible damage or deterioration
- Detect possible leaks or system concerns
- Ensure components are functioning properly
- Reduce the risk of unexpected repairs or downtime
- Provide peace of mind heading into busy seasons
For farms and rural homes especially, propane systems are often relied upon heavily during harvest, livestock heating seasons, and winter weather. Making sure your system is in good condition before peak usage periods can help avoid interruptions when you need propane the most.
What Is Included in a Propane System Inspection?
Our Energy team performs a thorough visual review of key propane system components.
Tank Inspection
The propane tank itself is one of the first areas we inspect. Over time, tanks can shift, settle, or experience general wear from weather exposure and use.
During a tank inspection, we review:
- General tank condition
- Whether the tank is level and positioned properly
- Fittings and valves for wear or damage
- External liquid spray leak testing around connections
Identifying issues early can help prevent future concerns and ensure the system continues operating as intended.
Regulator Inspection
Regulators are critical to the safe operation of a propane system because they control pressure throughout the system. Regulators can wear down over time and may require replacement based on manufacturer recommendations and overall condition.
During the inspection, we check for:
- Visible damage or deterioration
- Signs of corrosion or weathering
- Potential leaks
- Overall regulator condition and performance concerns
A regulator that is aging or failing may not always show obvious symptoms, making inspections especially important.
Propane Line Inspection
Visible propane lines are also inspected for signs of damage or aging. Propane lines can experience wear from weather, equipment contact, movement, or general exposure over time.
Our team looks for:
- Kinks or bending
- Scuffing or abrasion
- Cracking or deterioration
- General line condition
Addressing line concerns early can help maintain safe propane flow throughout the system.
System Leak Check
Upon customer request, Farmward can also perform a full propane system leak test. Leak testing helps identify leaks within the propane system and can be an important step if you suspect an issue or are preparing equipment for seasonal use.
Inspection Pricing
Farmward-Leased Propane Tanks & Systems
A Farmward-leased propane tank/system inspection will be completed free of charge unless the regulator attached to the building requires replacement. If replacement is needed, the customer will be invoiced for the regulator and associated labor.
Customer-Owned Propane Tanks & Systems
A customer-owned propane tank/system inspection will be invoiced at a flat fee of $90. Any necessary parts, repairs, or additional labor identified during the inspection will be invoiced separately in addition to the $90 inspection fee.
When Should You Consider an Inspection?
There are several times when a propane system inspection may be especially beneficial, including:
- Before winter heating season
- Prior to grain drying season
- After severe weather or flooding
- If equipment or tanks have shifted
- When purchasing or moving into a property
- If you notice unusual propane odors or system performance issues
- If components appear aged or damaged
Even if everything appears to be functioning normally, inspections can help catch small issues before they turn into larger repairs.
Contact Farmward to Learn More
If you are interested in scheduling a propane system inspection, please contact your Energy Sales Representative or reach out to the Marshall or Morgan office for additional information.
Routine inspections can help identify components that may need repair, replacement, or maintenance to keep your propane system operating safely and reliably for the long term.