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Commercial

Commercial Propane Services
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Getting Started & Commercial Account Setup

We serve businesses across Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana, with local teams for delivery, installation, and support. If you’re just outside those areas, contact us—we can often coordinate service or a referral.
Call or request a quote online. We’ll confirm your site details, usage profile (seasonal or year-round), safety needs, and billing preferences, then schedule a site visit for sizing and placement.
Most new installs begin after a short site assessment, equipment scheduling, and any required permits. If you have an urgent need, we’ll prioritize delivery and temporary solutions to keep you running.
Yes. We coordinate permitting, installation documentation, and work with Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) to ensure your setup meets applicable NFPA 58/IFC/OSHA expectations.
Absolutely. We regularly coordinate with builders, property managers, and safety officers to align propane system design with your project timeline.
Yes. We offer flexible lease or purchase options and will recommend the best fit based on usage, cash flow, and operational goals.
Yes—across warehousing, agriculture, hospitality, construction, and retail. Ask us for examples relevant to your operation size and seasonality.
Our drivers and technicians hold required certifications and complete ongoing training; Corrigan maintains appropriate insurance and follows DOT, OSHA, and NFPA standards for commercial propane work.

Supply & Delivery Logistics

We set routes around your usage and seasonality. Many customers use remote tank monitoring so deliveries are timed before you run low—no guesswork.
Will-call means you order when you’re low; automatic uses usage history and tank monitors to plan deliveries for you. Automatic is popular for high-demand sites.
Yes—seasonal peaks, cold snaps, or outages happen. We provide after-hours dispatch and emergency delivery in our service area (fees may apply).
Most commercial users call around 20–30%. With monitors, we’ll schedule drops before critical levels based on real-time data and your consumption pattern.
About 91,500 BTU per gallon, helpful for estimating heater sizing and runtime.
Yes. We consolidate billing and reporting across locations and can roll up usage by facility, cost center, or job code.
We do—especially for grain drying, construction heat, and peak hospitality periods. We’ll increase drops and capacity temporarily, then scale back.
Lead times vary by weather and demand. Monitoring and pre-season planning ensure priority service when conditions tighten.
Yes—multiple tanks, long line runs, barricading, and safe traffic patterns are part of our standard commercial planning.

Tank Sizing, Placement & Equipment

We model your BTU load (process heat, HVAC, forklifts, dryers, etc.), required runtime, and refill cadence. We’ll right-size for safety, uptime, and cost.
Placement must comply with NFPA 58 and local fire codes (clearances, ignition sources, ventilation, access for filling). We’ll design and install to code and coordinate AHJ approvals.
Yes—common for large facilities and long runs. Manifolding improves capacity and refill flexibility.
Most commercial users call around 20–30For high instantaneous demand or cold conditions, we can spec vaporizers and regulators sized for your load.%. With monitors, we’ll schedule drops before critical levels based on real-time data and your consumption pattern.
Relief devices must discharge safely (e.g., vertical discharge and protection for underground installations per OSHA sections). We design and install per code.
Yes—most existing ASME and DOT vessels can be monitored with our telemetry for usage, alerts, and delivery timing.

Safety & Compliance (General)

Primarily NFPA 58 (LP-Gas Code), applicable sections of the International Fire Code, and OSHA 1910.110 for storage/handling. Local rules may add requirements; we coordinate with your AHJ.
An OPD helps prevent overfilling. NFPA 58 requires OPDs on cylinders from 4 to 40 lb capacity per specified dates; Corrigan cylinders comply.
DOT 4-series cylinders must be requalified on a schedule (often 10–12 years from manufacture, then at intervals depending on the test method); overdue cylinders must not be refilled. Corrigan manages requalification on exchange inventory.
OSHA restricts how much LP-gas can be stored indoors and requires separation from exits/egress. We recommend outdoor cages.
We provide propane safety orientations—handling, leak response, cylinder change-outs, and emergency contacts—aligned with OSHA/NFPA practices.
Stop operations, evacuate to a safe distance, avoid ignition sources, and call Corrigan and emergency services. Do not operate switches or phones near a suspected leak.

Commercial Cylinder Exchange Program

We install secure, ventilated cages, deliver certified full cylinders, and collect empties on a set route—so you always have fuel, no on-site filling required.
We tailor the route to your usage and seasonality, adding service during peaks so you don’t run out.
Yes—each cylinder is leak-tested, certified and labeled. Damaged/expired cylinders are pulled from circulation (OPD and requalification compliance).
Refilling can be cheaper per pound, but when you factor labor, downtime, safety oversight, and equipment costs, exchange often has a lower total cost of ownership for busy sites.
Yes—change-out, transport, storage, and emergency steps. We can refresh training for new staff or seasonal teams.
Exchange cages are placed outdoors and ventilated and must follow placement rules (clearances from doors/dispensers/combustibles) under NFPA/IFC and local rules.
Lockable steel cages with ventilation and clear signage are standard; we also advise on lighting and cameras.
Yes—Corrigan refurbishes or responsibly recycles cylinders that fail inspection, reducing waste and risk.
Absolutely. We map routes across your locations and roll usage into consolidated billing.
Call us and we’ll arrange an off-cycle swap.
Yes—expect a compliant extinguisher within a specified travel distance; we’ll specify type/placement with the AHJ.

Forklifts & Industrial Equipment

Most use horizontal 33-lb liquid-withdrawal cylinders; other sizes exist depending on truck model. We’ll match your fleet’s spec.
With the pressure relief valve “up” (often the 12-o’clock position) so it’s in the vapor space; this is a common safety best practice in industry guidance.
Yes—industrial truck containers must meet DOT/ASME design pressures and be maintained accordingly.
Well-maintained propane engines and proper ventilation reduce CO risk; we recommend routine maintenance and CO monitoring per your safety plan.
Yes—by tracking swaps per shift and peak usage, we’ll set an inventory that avoids stockouts without over-holding.
We do—we’ll tailor cylinder counts and delivery frequency around your actual propane truck hours.

Builders & Construction Heat

Concrete curing, drywall finishing, painting, roofing, and ground thawing—propane’s portability and high heat output make it ideal for dynamic sites.
Yes—tanks, manifolds, high-BTU heaters, hoses, regulators, airflow planning, and on-call deliveries.
Yes—heater placement, separation from containers, ventilation, and fire safety are covered in OSHA 1910.110; we install to meet these requirements.
Yes—our dispatch scales routes during weather events to keep your timeline intact.
Yes—heater operation, barricades, hose routing, hot-work coordination, emergency procedures, and shutoff locations.

Agriculture & Grain Drying

Yes—we support all major dryer configurations and help size tanks and vaporizers for peak demand.
We offer pre-buy and budget plans to stabilize costs when demand spikes.
Yes—many farms prefer Corrigan’s multi-company services for simpler scheduling and fewer vendors.
We do.

Dispensing Stations & Retail

A turnkey on-site filling system that lets your business fill customer cylinders/RV tanks. It drives traffic, adds revenue, and keeps your customers coming back.
Hardware stores, marinas, gas stations, campgrounds, RV parks, and retailers with steady local demand.
Design, permitting, installation, operator training and ongoing propane supply.
Yes—NFPA 58/IFC regulates cabinet location, ventilation, separation from doors/dispensers, and extinguisher placement. We site and document per code.
Yes—operators must be trained on safe filling, inspections, emergency shutoff, and incident response; we provide this training.
Timeline depends on local permitting and utility coordination; our team manages the process end-to-end.
Many retailers do—serving both “swap” and “refill” customers to maximize volume.

Monitoring, Technology & Data

A turnkey on-site filling system that lets your business fill customer cylinders/RV tanks. It drives traffic, adds revenue, and keeps your customers coming back.
It reduces emergency calls, “just-in-case” drops, and runouts, boosting uptime.
Yes—usage history, fill events, and alert thresholds can be shared with your facilities or procurement team.
In most cases, yes. We’ll assess access, compatibility, and mounting options.

Pricing, Contracts & Billing

Price reflects market conditions, delivery cadence, volume, and contracted terms. We offer pricing options.
Yes—budget plans smooth cash flow; pre-buy locks in fuel volume at set pricing during peak seasons (popular for dryers and winter heat).
Some equipment leases or station installs include throughput expectations—discussed up front and tailored to your operation.
Yes. We support roll-ups by site, region, or business unit, with usage analytics to support budgeting.
Any fees are disclosed up front—no surprises.

Emergency, Training & Support

Evacuate, avoid flames/sparks, don’t operate electrical switches, and call Corrigan and emergency services.
Yes—leaks, outages, or urgent refills. We’ll dispatch qualified techs and coordinate with responders as needed.
At least annually and whenever job duties change, equipment is updated, or a safety incident occurs.
Local teams, 67+ years of experience, 24/7 support, remote monitoring, and turnkey compliance—we’re on the ground with you to keep operations safe and on schedule.

Residential

Residential Propane Services
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Getting Started: Propane Basics

Propane (C₃H₈) is a clean-burning fuel stored as a liquid and used for heating, water heating, cooking, fireplaces, dryers, and standby generators. Many rural homes choose propane where natural gas isn’t available.
About 91,452 BTU per gallon (higher heating value), useful for estimating usage and comparing fuels.
Like rotten eggs or skunk—thanks to the odorant ethyl mercaptan added for safety. If you suspect a leak, leave immediately and call your propane supplier or 911 from a safe place.
No—propane is stable; it doesn’t degrade like gasoline or diesel. Cold weather can reduce tank pressure (not quality), which can affect appliance operation until pressure recovers.
Look for 24/7 support, transparent pricing, automatic delivery options, safety expertise, and local service.
Yes. We handle the tank set or transfer, safety checks, and first fill, coordinating timing so you don’t run out.

Tank Sizes & How Much You Need

Typical residential sizes are 120, 250, 325, 500, and 1,000 gallons. Many homes with whole-home heat use 500-gallon tanks. Your appliance mix and usage determine the best size.
We consider square footage, insulation, number of propane appliances, hot-water demand, generator size, and your delivery preference (auto vs. will-call).
It depends on weather and usage. A rough method is to total appliance BTUs, estimate daily runtime, and divide by 91,452 BTU/gal. We’re happy to calculate for you.
Tanks are filled to about 80% to allow for expansion; a 500-gallon tank typically holds ~400 gallons when “full.”
Yes—multi-tank manifolds can extend capacity for large loads (pools, whole-home generators) without a single larger tank.
No. Home systems use ASME stationary tanks with regulators and fixed piping. DOT cylinders are for portable uses and follow different rules, including periodic requalification.
A 500-gallon above-ground tank is roughly 10′ long; placements must meet code clearances, site access, and aesthetic preferences. Your Corrigan tech will verify on-site.

Ownership, Leasing & Installation

Leasing lowers upfront cost and includes service from your supplier.
We plan the location, set the tank, install regulators/piping, leak-check, and light appliances per NFPA 54/58 and local code.
Stationary ASME tanks are durable for decades with proper installation and corrosion protection; periodic inspections are part of safe operation.
Corrigan coordinates required permits/inspections based on local authority.
Safety inspection, regulator checks, system test, first fill, delivery setup, and an overview of gauges, valves, and emergency procedures.

Underground vs. Above-Ground Tanks

They typically cost more to install (excavation, anodes/cathodic systems) but may satisfy HOA or aesthetic preferences.
Yes—maintain clearances and keep valves, gauges, and delivery access unobstructed.
Clearance, setback, and protection requirements vary; we follow NFPA 58 and local code.

Pricing, Plans & Programs

Purchase gallons ahead of the season at a fixed rate; deliveries draw from your prepaid balance.
Lock a fixed per-gallon rate for the season; pay as you receive deliveries.
You’ll never pay above the cap but may pay lower if market prices fall.
We estimate your annual usage and spread it into 12 predictable monthly payments, with periodic reviews.
Auto-Fill often includes reduced rates due to delivery efficiency—ask about current discounts.

Safety & Emergencies

No flames or sparks; leave immediately; if safe, close the tank valve; call us or 911 from a neighbor’s phone; don’t re-enter until cleared by a professional.
Yes—install CO alarms on every level and outside sleeping areas; follow the manufacturer’s instructions and test regularly.
Each floor and near bedrooms; follow the device instructions (some are wall plug-in, some ceiling). Avoid vents and humid areas.
CO alarms sense carbon monoxide from improper combustion. Combustible gas detectors sense unburned fuel gas—both are useful and should be listed devices.
Improper venting, blocked flues, or malfunctioning appliances. Have systems inspected annually and keep vents clear of snow/ice.
Only if the manufacturer’s instructions allow and you’re comfortable; otherwise call us. If you smell gas, don’t attempt it.
Propane is non-toxic, but high concentrations displace oxygen. Always follow leak-response steps and ventilate.
Yes—keep tank, regulators, piping, and vents clear; heavy snow/ice can damage components or block combustion air.
Yes—DOT cylinders must be periodically requalified; check the dates stamped on the collar.

Winter, Weather & Outages

Propane itself doesn’t freeze in normal winter conditions, but pressure drops in extreme cold can affect flow. Keeping adequate levels and wind protection helps.
Enroll in Auto-Fill or use a smart monitor, order at ~30%, and clear access for the truck.
Yes—snow/ice can block vents and create high CO risk. Keep vents and regulators clear.
We do everything possible; please plow/mark the driveway and tank so we can reach it safely.
Yes—our forecasting advances routes during extreme cold.

Moving, Buying & Selling Propane Home

Leased tanks generally stay and transfer; owned tanks can be included in the sale. We provide final readings and fuel valuation for closing.
Open an account before/at closing, request a safety check, confirm remaining fuel, and choose delivery/payment options.
Yes—our Welcome Visit covers reading the gauge, safety basics, and appliance overview.
We’ll settle your account, coordinate tank pickup/transfer, and help the next owner continue service.
Early! We coordinate trenching, regulators, and appliance specs with your builder to pass inspections smoothly.

Regulations, Codes & Compliance

The two primary codes are NFPA 58 (Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code) and NFPA 54 (National Fuel Gas Code).

NFPA 58 regulates the storage, handling, transportation, and installation of propane tanks and cylinders. It covers requirements for above-ground and underground propane tanks, separation distances, valves, regulators, and safety equipment.

NFPA 54 applies to propane and natural gas appliances inside the home, such as furnaces, water heaters, stoves, and fireplaces. It governs venting, combustion air, piping, and appliance installation standards.

Most states adopt these codes (sometimes with modifications) as part of their building and fire codes. Local inspectors enforce compliance during new installations, renovations, or safety inspections.
Yes. Periodic inspections are required under NFPA 58 and enforced by state or local authorities. Inspections typically cover:

Tank integrity and corrosion protection (especially for underground tanks)

Regulator function and replacement intervals (usually every 15 years or sooner)

Piping, valves, and connectors for leaks or damage

Clearance distances from structures, ignition sources, and property lines

Your propane supplier is responsible for performing leak checks and system inspections when installing tanks, after running out of gas, or whenever new equipment is connected. Homeowners should expect safety checks at installation and may be required during refills, depending on state law
In most jurisdictions, yes. Installing or relocating a propane tank usually requires a permit from the local building or fire department. The permit ensures:

The tank is sized correctly and placed according to NFPA 58

Proper clearances from structures and property lines are observed

Piping, regulators, and appliances meet code standards

The installation passes inspection before use

Your propane company typically handles the permitting process on your behalf, but homeowners should be aware that installation without a permit can result in fines or forced removal.
Enforcement depends on jurisdiction. Common authorities include:

State Fire Marshal’s Office – Often oversees propane system compliance statewide

Local Fire Departments – Inspect residential tank placement and safety

Building Inspectors – Review installation of gas piping and appliances

Propane Suppliers – Must follow federal, state, and NFPA standards to maintain licenses

Ultimately, homeowners are responsible for ensuring their property complies, but propane companies and inspectors share accountability for safe installation and operation.

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