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Checking the Propane Supply
If you are concerned or curious about the amount of propane in your tank, it's an easy matter to check. Follow the gas line to the top of the tank where the gas line connects to the tank under a hinged protective cover. There you will find a number of devices (shut-off valve, regulator, fill port, etc.) including a small circular gauge. The pointer in the gauge rotates around a scale that indicates the amount of propane in the tank in terms of percent of total capacity. When the pointer indicates "60", for example, it means that the tank is 60% full. To maintain proper delivery pressure during the cold winter months, don't let the propane quantity drop below about the 20% mark. Your supplier will typically fill the tank to about the 80 to 85% level to allow for expansion.
Essential Tools for Minor Repairs
Even if you don't intend to be a do-it-yourselfer, there are times when it's important to have a few basic tools around just to cope with something minor. The following is a suggested list of minimum basic household tools (in addition to the three universal essentials that all households should always have: twist ties, WD-40 spray and duct tape!): ● Toilet plunger ● Screwdriver set (various sizes; flat [ -- ] & Philips [ + ] ● Pliers (plain, channel lock, needle-nose & vice-grip types) ● Wire cutters, wire strippers ● Adjustable wrenches (small and large) ● Pipe wrench ● Claw hammer ● Assorted nails and screws ● Pocket knife, utility knife, putty knife ● Cross-cut saw, hacksaw ● Square, level (small) ● Pry bar (small) ● Metal file ● Small electric drill and bits (optional)
If you use firewood, you will also want the following, even if you have your wood delivered already cut to stove length and split: ● Axe ● Splitting maul and wedge(s).
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