Propane FAQ

Propane is a clean, safe and versatile gas obtained by extracting natural gas or refining crude oil. It is naturally colourless, odourless and nontoxic; it’s also heavier than air. Propane is mainly used for backup or supplemental heating and for stoves, refrigerators and residential water heaters. It is efficient, eco-friendly and economical.

Harnois Énergies offers a range of tank sizes for residential or commercial use.

Residential sizes: 100 L, 200 L, 420 L, 500 USG and 1,000 USG
Commercial sizes: 33 L (for forklifts), 420 L, 500 USG, 1,000 USG and 2,000 USG

The right size depends on your consumption and the appliances you use (for example, a generator). Harnois Énergies will always help you choose the tank that suits your needs.

The Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ) sets the regulations for where and how propane tanks can be installed in order to keep users and workers safe.

Only certified professionals holding a certificate of qualification issued by the Ministère du Travail, de l’Emploi et de la Solidarité sociale may fill tanks, no matter their size.

For more information, check the Canadian Standards Association regulations.

To ensure compliance with safety standards, Harnois Énergies recommends contacting your general contractor. They can make sure the work meets current regulations and that the connection can be carried out safely.

An appliance’s consumption depends on the number of BTUs it uses.

As a reference, you can use the consumption chart below to estimate your usage. However, it’s best to check your appliance’s manufacturer manual for exact data.

Typical consumption

There are two simple ways to check your propane level:

1. Manual gauge: Lift the tank’s red cover to read the dial (gauge).
2. Otodata tank monitor (telemetry): With this device, you can track your propane level in real time directly through the Harnois Customer Portal via your phone.

If you don’t have an Otodata reader and you want to use this service, contact our Customer Service.

Yes, this is completely normal. According to standards set by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA Group), propane tanks must not be filled beyond 80% of their capacity.
This allowance ensures the gas can safely expand.

Before doing landscaping work, it is very important to contact Harnois Énergies to make sure no underground lines connect the propane tank to your building. This check helps prevent any risk of damage or service interruption.

Propane is naturally colourless and odourless. An additive called methyl mercaptan is added to make it detectable, giving it a characteristic smell similar to that of rotten eggs.

This odour may indicate:

• a propane gas leak
• a nearly empty tank, which can also produce a slight odour without any leak

In all cases, check the tank level and close the valve as a safety precaution.

If you detect the smell of propane, follow these steps in the recommended order:

1. Close the tank or appliance valve by turning the knob clockwise to cut off the propane supply.
2. Check the propane level in the tank, if it can be done safely:
– If the tank is empty, the smell is normal and there is no leak. Contact Harnois Énergies to schedule a delivery.
– If the tank still contains gas, do not use the appliance until a technician has inspected the installation.
3. Open windows to ventilate the area and dissipate the odour.
4. Avoid any sources of ignition, such as open flames, smoking materials or electrical devices or batteries.
5. Leave the building calmly. Make sure everyone evacuates the premises.
6. Contact Harnois Énergies so a technician can address the situation, make the necessary repairs and put the appliances back into service.

Before and during a flood

• Secure your tank to a fixed object; even when it’s full, a propane tank can float and shift.
• Shut off the propane supply at the tank and at any gas- or electrically powered appliances.
• Avoid any sources of ignition: do not smoke, or use open flames or electric devices.
• Evacuate the premises as soon as possible. In case of rising water or fire, contact emergency services (911). Only firefighters are authorized to secure the electrical supply.
• Once water reaches six inches, contact Harnois Énergies to report the situation and assess whether the tank should be temporarily removed.

After a flood

• Do not restore the propane or electrical supply until all water has been completely cleared and the installations have been inspected.
• Have the tank inspected by Harnois Énergies before putting it back into service.
• Contact the manufacturer of your appliances (for example, fireplace or water heater) for a full inspection before using them again.
• Ensure the area is well ventilated to remove any remaining gas odour.

Yes. In an emergency, it is strongly recommended to close the tank valve and turn off the affected appliances immediately, even before emergency services arrive. This measure helps secure the area and reduce risks.

Never attempt to disconnect, repair or patch the tank or appliances yourself: only a certified professional can do so safely. In case of a leak or damage, contact us by phone as soon as possible.

To ensure the safety and proper operation of your equipment:

• Clear a path at least one metre wide to the tank to allow the delivery hose or technicians to pass.
• Clear the area around the tank to facilitate any work.
• De-ice and clear the gate or access point so it opens easily.
• Remove snow regularly, as it can affect appliance performance and accelerate wear. (Contrary to popular belief, snow does not act as insulation.)

Yes. To facilitate access to the tank and allow delivery personnel and technicians to work safely, it is recommended to clear the area around the tank, including trimming or removing trees and shrubs that could obstruct access.

It is necessary to sign an equipment rental agreement to open an account with Harnois Énergies. This agreement confirms the information provided and ensures adequate protection for customers.
To open an account, a credit check is conducted to determine a credit limit suited to your needs and financial capacity.

Since the equipment remains the property of Harnois Énergies, it is important to contact us promptly to:

• Organize the transfer of equipment
• Settle any outstanding invoices
• Close the account, if necessary
• Provide the new owner’s contact information

The terms of the transaction must first be handled through a notary and then confirmed with Harnois Énergies. No credit can be applied to the account.

Yes, some payment options can be adapted to your situation.
To learn more about available options, contact Harnois Énergies. Our team will gladly assist you.