This issue of Texas Propane takes a deep dive into something you may be hearing about: PEX-AL-PEX. The material, which was created to move water, has increasingly found its way into fuel gas systems. Safety experts and regulators agree that this is distressing. We talk to several experts about the problem, and they shared their concerns.
We provide steps you can take if you suspect PEX-AL-PEX has been installed for fuel gas use. It’s important to report these instances and pull in the proper authority having jurisdiction (AHJ).
On page 14, take a look back at three decades of code evolution that shaped the modern propane industry, from the nationwide rollout of OPD valves to sweeping updates to NFPA 58. Retiring NPGA Vice President of Regulatory and Technical Services Bruce Swiecicki offers a firsthand account of the most pivotal safety and standards milestones—and what’s next.
The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) has been busy revamping its suite of safety brochures, providing marketers fresh, updated materials to provide your customers. See page 16 for new print and digital assets you can use.
Each year, we are very proud to award scholarships to propane industry children and grandchildren. If someone in your shop has a senior in high school, make sure they’re aware that the application is now open and available (page 18). Over the last three decades, we’ve awarded over $200,000. We should all be proud!
Lastly, have you used GeneratioNext Propane Pros yet? It’s only been a year since it launched and it has already delivered great results. If you are looking for skilled service technicians, make sure you’ve signed up at NextGen. Propane.com.
Texas Propane
TPGA staff Bill Van Hoy ................. bvanhoy@txpropane.com Executive Director
Jackie Mason................... jmason@txpropane.com Deputy Executive Director
Assoc. At Large Director: Crystelle Markley, Superior Energy Systems, 512-944-4177
Assoc. At Large Alternate: Jimmie Grant, Martin Gas Sales, 713-851-6155
Nominating Chair: John Walter, Schneider Distributing, 800-901-9109
NPGA Director: Mark Garrison, Allstar Fuel, 806-296-6353
Mark Your Calendar: TPGA Board & Committee Meetings, May 20-21, 2025
I want to thank everyone for your support during our March board meeting in San Antonio. It was gratifying to see so many members actively participating. Mark your calendar! I would like to invite you to attend the upcoming meetings on May 20-21, 2025, at the Holiday Inn Austin-Town Lake in Austin, TX. We will be working on several very important items, critical bills in the Texas Legislative session, Scholarship and electing a new supplier board. Everyone’s participation in these important events is needed.
Schedule
Thank you and see you in Austin!
Sincerely,
Larry Baty TPGA President
Tuesday, May 20, 2025
• 9:00am - 10:00am – Scholarship Board Meeting
• 10:00am - 12:00pm – Legislative Affairs | T & S Committee Meeting
• 12:00pm - 1:00pm – Networking Lunch
• 1:30pm - 2:30pm – Finance Committee
• 2:30pm - 3:30pm – Executive Committee
• 3:30pm - 4:30pm – Supplier Elections
• 5:00pm – Happy Hour
• 6:30pm – Dinner at Scholz Beer Garden
Wednesday, May 21, 2025
• 9:00am - 11:00am TPGA Board Meeting
• 11:30am - 2:00pm ProCOT Board Meeting (includes working lunch)
Agenda: Financials, Legislative Affairs/Technical & Standards Update, RRC Update, Executive Director’s Report,Scholarship Update,Old and New Business
Host Hotel
Holiday Inn Austin-Town Lake 20 North IH-35 Austin, TX 78701
Hotel Details
• Group Code: TPG
• Group Dates: May 19-21, 2025
• Room Rate: $145.00 per night
• Reservation Cut-off Date: Saturday, April 19, 2025
Attendance
• The TPGA Board & Committee Meetings are OPEN & EXCLUSIVE TO ALL TPGA MEMBERS.
• A RSVP IS REQUIRED so we can accommodate adequate seating and space.
• RSVP at www.txpropane.com
Questions?
Please email: info@txpropane.com or call 800-325-7427.
in Fuel Gas Systems:
The Rise of a Controversial Gas Piping Material
When it comes to gas piping, safety and compliance are paramount. However, a newer material— PEX-AL-PEX—is making its way into fuel gas systems across parts of the U.S., raising serious concerns from regulators, industry professionals, and safety experts.
Despite its presence in certain jurisdictions, PEXAL-PEX is not approved by these national fuel gas code, including NFPA 54, NFPA 58, the International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC), or the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC).
Independent testing has indicated that PEX-AL-PEX may not offer the same level of fire resistance as code-approved metallic gas piping, raising concerns about its suitability for propane and natural gas installations.
To explore the details and regulatory challenges surrounding PEX-AL-PEX and other composite piping materials, we spoke with Bob Torbin, Director of Codes and Standards for OmegaFlex, Chris Wagner, NPGA Vice President of Codes, Standards, & Safety, and other industry safety veterans tracking the use of these products and their impact on fuel gas safety nationwide.
How Did PEX-AL-PEX Get Here?
PEX-AL-PEX, originally designed for pressurized water systems (including hot and cold potable water distribution, radiant floor heating, and snow melt for driveways), has been marketed in certain regions for fuel gas use not just for water as it was originally designed, despite lacking the necessary safety approvals.
A Legal Loophole?
Torbin explains that some manufacturers have bypassed national approval processes by directly approaching local jurisdictions.
“They’ve bypassed national code approvals and instead have gone directly to local jurisdictions, getting city, county, or even state approval around the country,” Torbin said. “This has led to its use in places like New Mexico, Montana, Wisconsin, Tennessee, and Oklahoma—often without the thorough testing required to prove equivalency to traditional gas piping materials.”
The problem with this approach is that local jurisdictions may not have the resources or expertise to evaluate the material’s safety compared to existing code-approved materials.
Chris Wagner, another expert, is closely monitoring and investigating an apparent misrepresentation of a manufactured product by gasFlex. Based on his initial investigation, this piping clearly does not meet the ASTM B241 standard that is
stamped on the product, nor could it be considered as aluminum piping in its manufactured form. This is a fact that has been confirmed by ASTM representatives of the B241 and F1281 standards bodies. It appears that this misrepresentation is in an effort to circumvent the NFPA 54 Technical Committees decision to not list F1281 or ISO 17484 listed material as permissible for above ground or interior installation within the scope of NFPA 54.
“You can’t just stamp the side of a plastic pipe and call it aluminum,” Wagner said. “It doesn’t work like that. If it was originally tested to an ASTM water standard, it doesn’t automatically become a fuel gas pipe just because the manufacturer relabeled it.”
PEX-AL-PEX Rejected by NFPA 54 Due to Safety Concerns
The failure of PEX-AL-PEX to gain national approval is not due to oversight—it has been deliberately rejected by this predominate national code body after thorough review.
2021 NFPA 54 Submission – Denied for Low Fire Resistance Failures
In 2021, a proposal was submitted to allow PEX-AL-PEX for interior gas piping under ASTM F1281. The NFPA 54 Technical Committee rejected the proposal, citing inadequate fire resistance data and testing that failed to prove the material was equivalent to code-approved metallic piping materials.
2022 NFPA 54 Resubmission – Denied Again for Fire Hazards
Undeterred, manufacturers resubmitted their proposal in 2022, this time citing ISO 17484 as a reference standard. However, during their formal presentation, they could not address fundamental safety issues, including melting, fitting leakage, and elongation under heat exposure.
Once again, the NFPA 54 Technical Committee rejected the proposal, officially concluding:
“This material poses a potential risk to occupants in minor fire situations.”
Due to these concerns, PEX-AL-PEX was not included in the 2024 edition of NFPA 54.
Furthermore, no new proposals have been submitted for reconsideration in the 2027 NFPA 54 edition, signaling that the safety concerns remain unresolved and unaddressed.
Safety Concerns: Why PEX-AL-PEX is Not CodeApproved
1. Low Fire Resistance Failures
One of the most critical safety limitations of PEX-AL-PEX is its complete lack of fire resistance. Third-party testing has demonstrated that PEX-AL-PEX joints fails under heat conditions below 1,000°F—far lower than traditional metallic piping materials.
“PEX-AL-PEX has essentially zero fire resistance compared to black iron, copper, or stainless steel, which are approved in the fuel gas codes,” Torbin said.
2. Fittings Fail at 500°F
Even before flames reach critical temperatures, PEX-ALPEX’s mechanical fittings fail at just 500°F.
“Studies have demonstrated that the fittings used to connect PEX-AL-PEX to other gas system components do not remain leak-tight at elevated temperatures,” Wagner said.
3. Mislabeling and Misrepresentation
Some manufacturers have begun labeling PEX-AL-PEX as “aluminum pipe” despite it failing to meet the aluminum pipe specifications outlined in ASTM B241.
“PEX-AL-PEX was originally designed, tested, and evaluated under a different standard—ASTM F1281,” Wagner emphasizes. “Now, they’re stamping it with an aluminum pipe designation that it doesn’t actually meet.”
This misrepresentation could lead to installers unknowingly using unapproved and unsafe piping in homes and businesses.
International Use of PEX-AL-PEX: Europe Took the Jump—But Should the U.S. Follow?
While PEX-AL-PEX is not approved for fuel gas use in the United States, it has been used in parts of Europe, primarily for low-pressure gas applications and hydronic heating systems.
“This type of product has been used for fuel gas in other parts
of the world, but not in North America,” explains Torbin. “European regulations differ significantly from U.S. fuel gas codes, particularly in how they assess fire resistance and material equivalency.”
One key difference is that some European countries allow plastic and composite piping in low-pressure gas applications, but they have strict installation guidelines, including:
• Mandatory fire-resistant enclosures for any gas piping installed inside buildings.
• Limited indoor applications—some European regulations restrict PEX-AL-PEX to exterior runs or underground.
• Different testing and approval standards, which do not align with NFPA 54 or NFPA 58 in the United States.
The key takeaway is that just because a material is used in Europe does not mean it is automatically safe or appropriate for use in the U.S. The fire resistance, regulatory requirements, and installation environments are vastly different, making PEX-ALPEX an unproven and unapproved option for aboveground gas piping in the United States.
The Texas Factor: Unregulated Installations
In Texas, where the propane industry operates under strict Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) oversight, the introduction of unapproved materials poses additional challenges.
“The real issue in Texas isn’t just the big cities,” Torbin explains. “It’s the vast, unincorporated areas where there are no municipal building inspectors. That’s where these manufacturers can push PEX-AL-PEX without it being flagged or questioned.”
He cites a multifamily project near San Antonio where PEXAL-PEX was installed for natural gas without an inspection.
TPGA’s Jackie Mason, further clarifies the Texas regulatory framework:
“The RRC is the authority having jurisdiction over any and all phases of LP gas in Texas,” Mason explains. “Cities and counties cannot adopt exceptions unless they formally petition the RRC. And in 14 years, no one has done so. That means PEX-AL-PEX is not authorized for LP gas in Texas. Additionally, to date, no licensee or supplier of the product has applied for exception either.”
Outdoor Use? A Gray Area
Some may wonder whether PEX-AL-PEX could at least be used outdoors or underground for fuel gas. The answer? It’s complicated.
“While some ICC listings suggest it ‘could’ be used underground, that’s not the same as actual approval,” says Torbin. “Unlike polyethylene gas pipe, which has been rigorously tested for fuel gas underground applications, PEX-AL-PEX has not undergone the same scrutiny.”
For propane applications, the RRC has not approved PEXAL-PEX for outdoor or underground use.
Next Steps
In the case with NPGA, NPGA is not working to prevent the spread of PEX-AL-PEX. Rather, NPGA is making sure that members understand the risks of PEX-AL-PEX, as well as the requirements that an AHJ perform their own independent testing of the material and make a determination in writing naming the agency and authority to approve under NFPA 54, IFGC, IRC, or UPC, as well as their determination and rationale for determination of equivalency.
The only product that NPGA is working to prevent from reaching the market is any product that is allegedly improperly or fraudulently marked, which would be any PE-AL-PE or PEX-AL-PEX product that is marked as ASTM B241 Aluminum pipe.
NPGA's next steps include:
• Contacting state propane associations to determine if the product is being introduced.
• Alerting propane marketers and members about potential safety concerns.
• Engaging with state AHJs that may have unknowingly approved the material.
If you suspect PEX-ALPEX has been installed in a building, take these steps:
1. Identify the product –Look for markings on the tubing, including the manufacturer’s name, listing agency, and whether it is labeled “gas” or “fuel gas.”
2. Report it – Notify the Railroad Commission of Texas with a form 22 and notify your RRC inspector.
3. Do not attempt to remove the piping yourself – Turn off the gas supply if possible and allow the authority having jurisdiction to handle the issue.
Final Thoughts: PEX-
AL-PEX is Not Worth the
Risk
While PEX-AL-PEX may seem like a cheaper or easier alternative to metallic gas piping, its lack of fire resistance, the possible leakage at the fitting when exposed to elevated
temperatures, and absence of national code approval make it a non-compliant product for fuel gas use in Texas.
“This isn’t just a propane issue—it’s a fuel gas issue,” Torbin emphasizes. “Plumbers who work on natural gas one day and propane the next may not realize that PEX-AL-PEX is unapproved. Educating both propane and natural gas professionals is key to preventing its unauthorized use.”
With PEX-AL-PEX installations already appearing in parts of Texas, industry leaders, propane marketers, and regulators must remain vigilant to ensure only approved materials are used for gas distribution.
By taking proactive steps to educate, report, and enforce code compliance, the industry can prevent potential disasters before they happen.
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Three Decades of Code Evolution
After more than three decades shaping the propane industry's safety codes and standards, Bruce Swiecicki has retired from his full-time role at the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA). His tenure has spanned some of the most significant regulatory advancements, from the implementation of the OPD valve to the ongoing integration of renewable propane into industry standards. As Bruce steps into retirement, he shares his journey, the challenges he’s faced, and his perspective on the future of propane codes and standards.
How and when did you get started at the National Propane Gas Association?
I responded to an ad in the Chicago Tribune in the fall of 1993. At that time, NPGA was headquartered in the Chicago area. My first interview with Dan Myers went pretty well. Although I was a mechanical engineer, I wasn’t very familiar with propane. However, I had a background in code writing, having worked for the Building Officials and Code Administrators for the previous 10 years.
Dan invited me back for a second interview, and that time, I met Sam McTier, NPGA’s treasurer at the time. Sam, a giant in the propane industry, was the one who told Dan to hire me. He became a mentor throughout my career until he passed.
How many code committees does NPGA cover, and what facets of the industry do they address?
From the start, NFPA 58 and NFPA 54 were the primary documents NPGA focused on. However, there are many other codes and standards that impact propane either directly or indirectly. Over the years, we have been involved with nearly 60 different codes and standards, whether through direct participation or monitoring their development. And we’re always open to more as we identify areas that could impact the propane industry.
How has the code landscape changed since you started?
When I first started, NFPA 58 was the primary industry code. Over time, major modifications were adopted, such as the
OPD valve, internal valves for bulk plant containers, cathodic protection for underground containers, plant maintenance and fire safety analyses, and even regulations for food trucks and over-the-road vehicles.
Today, NFPA 58 has become a more settled document, with fewer major changes on the horizon. The focus is shifting toward standards that can accommodate renewable propane and ensure fair competition amid electrification efforts. These codes are critical because they eventually become law at the state and local levels.
What was the biggest challenge you faced in your propane career?
One of the biggest challenges was the transition to the OPD valves in the 1998 edition of NFPA 58. This effort was already underway when I joined NPGA in 1993, and it involved a massive undertaking—addressing millions of cylinders
already in circulation while developing a reliable valve for different-sized cylinders.
The NPGA Technical & Standards Committee members played a crucial role in driving the process, and ultimately, the industry adopted the provisions that remain in place today.
Also, NPGA’s efforts to prevent restrictive regulations on unvented heaters within ASHRAE’s 62.2 committee is quote notable. While NPGA has successfully won three appeals, the issue remains unsettled, with ongoing debates over allowable emissions. Dave DeLaquilla led NPGA’s charge on this front, and I believe continued progress will be made to protect propane’s role in home heating.
What do you see as the biggest upcoming change in codes and standards?
We are in an interesting time, and with the current administration aiming to re-
Bruce Swiecicki (right) and Sam McTier (left), who served as a mentor to Bruce throughout his career at NPGA.
duce government bureaucracy, I expect regulatory agencies will have a reduced workforce. This may lead to a greater reliance on national consensus codes and standards—such as NFPA 58—to regulate industries and commerce. If this trend continues, agencies like DOT and OSHA may increasingly adopt propane codes at the federal level, ensuring consistency across states and jurisdictions.
While NFPA 58 is largely a settled document, future advancements in safety technology could drive meaningful changes. One promising possibility is infrared gas detection technology, which could automatically detect leaks and shut down systems in bulk plants and storage facilities. Innovations like these have the potential to enhance safety across the industry and shape future code revisions.
What is your best memory from your time in the propane industry?
I have many cherished memories, but what stands out most is the camaraderie—working with a team to achieve success in the codes arena and then celebrating afterward.
What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned in the propane industry?
The most useful lesson I’ve learned is that there is always more to learn.
What are you going to miss most about working in the propane industry?
I've always maintained that the best part of working in the propane industry is the people. When I first started, I didn’t know much about propane, but I quickly learned that this industry is made up of some of the most welcoming, hardworking, and collaborative individuals. From the members who volunteer their time on technical committees to the people I’ve worked alongside at NPGA, I’ve been fortunate to be surrounded by knowledgeable and dedicated professionals.
I’ll miss the interaction that comes with attending board meetings, the TS&S Committee, the Propane Expo, and state association events. The relationships and camaraderie built over three decades are what I cherish the most. I’m incredibly grateful for the friendships and experiences I’ve had.
What are your plans for retirement?
As of March 1, I am officially retired, but
More Code Committees & The Issues
Bruce highlighted that NPGA, and its members are involved in about 60 technical committees across various organizations. Beyond NFPA, NPGA is engaged with the following, just to name a few:
• ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers), where it is actively working to prevent unnecessary restrictions on unvented heaters.
• CSA (Canadian Standards Association), where Bruce chaired the Z2183 committee overseeing gas appliance standards from 2012 to 2018.
• Underwriters Laboratories (UL), which sets standards for safety components such as relief valves and regulators.
• ASTM International, where work is ongoing to address propane specifications with a higher butane content.
• ISO (International Organization for Standardization), which plays a role in international propane safety standards.
• Fire Code, which impact propane applications.
NPGA and Bruce’s work across these committees has ensured that propane remains a competitive and safe energy source in various applications, from home heating to industrial use.
I will continue to do some consulting work for NPGA and others. However, my priority will be spending more time with my wife, family, and friends—especially my only grandchild, Maverick Leo. Thankfully, we all live close together in the Chicago area, so I get to see Maverick often. I also expect to stay busy with projects around the house and beyond!
Passing the Torch: A New Chapter for NPGA’s Codes & Standards
Christopher Wagner has stepped into
the role of Vice President of Codes, Standards & Safety, succeeding Bruce. While Bruce will continue to serve as a Technical Advisor, Wagner brings a wealth of experience to the position. He spent 15 years as Director of Compliance and Regulatory Affairs for one of the largest retailers in the country. In addition, he has 39 years of firefighting experience, having served as an assistant fire chief. He continues to contribute to his community as a volunteer firefighter and fire instructor in his home state of Pennsylvania.
Newly Updated Propane Consumer Safety Brochures Released
Safety Guide for Propane Users
In an era where clear and concise consumer safety information is more critical than ever, the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) has unveiled a newly revamped suite of safety brochures designed to enhance consumer understanding of propane safety. The updated materials, the result of extensive industry collaboration and consumer testing, provide propane marketers with a fresh set of tools to educate their customers.
“Our goal was to make propane safety information more accessible and comprehensible for consumers,” said Sam Fox, chair of PERC’s Consumer Project Team and Director of Operations & Sales at McCraw Propane. “We wanted to ensure that homeowners and businesses alike have the best possible resources to use propane safely and efficiently.”
Industry Expertise and Consumer Testing
The project, which began in 2022 under the direction of PERC’s Safety & Technical Training Working Group, assembled a specialized team including propane industry experts, a third-party legal advisor, and a contractor with representation on the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Given that ANSI Z535.6 establishes guidelines for
presenting product safety information, its inclusion was pivotal in developing materials that meet industry standards while remaining consumer-friendly.
PERC’s research-driven approach involved multiple rounds of legal review followed by focus group testing to gauge consumer comprehension. The result? A set of brochures that employ consistent language, intuitive design, and modern technology— such as QR codes that direct users to additional safety resources, including instructional videos.
What’s New in the Updated Brochures?
Among the newly available materials are:
The Propane Safety Booklet – A comprehensive guide covering essential safety practices.
Important Propane Safety Information for You & Your Family (Trifold) – A condensed, easy-to-read pamphlet designed for quick reference.
The Small Cylinder Safety Brochure – Focused on best practices for handling portable propane cylinders.
Digital and Print Options for Maximum Reach
Recognizing the importance of both digital and print distribution, PERC has made the brochures available in both formats. For propane marketers opting for
digital versions, PERC has introduced an innovative 3.5” x 5” self-sealing scratchand-sniff mailer. This low-cost tool allows consumers to familiarize themselves with the distinct odor of propane, reinforcing a critical safety message.
“One of the most significant improvements is the consistency across all materials,” Fox explained. “Whether a consumer picks up a trifold brochure or the full safety booklet, they’re receiving the same clear, concise information. That builds confidence and awareness.”
Looking Ahead: Commercial Safety Materials Next
PERC’s Consumer Project Team is already looking ahead, with plans to revamp the commercial safety brochure next. “We’re committed to ensuring that all propane users—residential and commercial— have the best possible safety information at their fingertips,” Fox added.
For propane marketers looking to distribute the new brochures, both digital and print versions are available for order and download from PERC’s Resource Catalog. Order from Propane Service Corporation (PSC) at www.propaneservicecorp.com or download digital versions at https://www. propanecounciloftexas.org/propane-safety.
Tracy Wells John Percy Mike Armstrong East Texas West Texas South Texas
Member Perks
TPGA Scholarship Application Round is Open
Scholarships for Propane Industry
Children & Grandchildren Available
About the TPGA Scholarship
Since 1997, the TPGA Scholarship Foundation has dedicated itself to providing scholarships for exceptional students who will be pursuing higher education. Over the last nearly three decades, TPGA has awarded over $200,000 in scholarships. TPGA is awarding higher education scholarships for the upcoming 2025-2026 academic school year.
What does the scholarship award cover?
Scholarship award checks are mailed over the summer directly to your educational institution to be applied to tuition & fees and room & board for the academic year. The full award can be applied fully to the fall 2025 semester or divided between the fall 2025 and spring 2026 semesters.
Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
• Has not previously been awarded a scholarship by the TPGA Scholarship Foundation.
• A Texas high school senior or an undergraduate student who completed high school in Texas;
• Plans to be a full-time student for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year in an undergraduate degree program by an accredited college or university or enrolled in a vocational or technical school;
• A child or grandchild of an employee of a current member of the Texas Propane Gas Association in 2025;
• The parent’s or grandparent’s work must be directly related to the Texas propane industry; and
• GPA (need to be in the upper half of class for consideration).
About the Scholarship Application
All eligible students must submit our TPGA scholarship online application to be entered into the scholarship competi-
tion. All required documents can be uploaded directly to the online application.
Completing the NPGA scholarship application will not automatically enter them into the Texas scholarship round. Students must complete the TPGA scholarship application to be entered into the Texas competition.
The deadline to submit all applications, including all required documents, is by 11:59 PM CDT on May 24, 2025. Access the scholarship application at https://www.txpropane.com/scholarship.
If the application is successfully completed, the applicant will get an email confirmation.
What information will the student need to complete the scholarship application?
The application includes a short essay question.
In addition, the application asks for:
• The name of the TPGA member company of your parent’s or grandparent’s employer.
• Household financial information;
• Information about your extracurricular and community activities;
• Employment history (if applicable);
• An academic transcript (which can be uploaded directly to the online application)
How are winners selected?
TPGA scholarships applicants are thoroughly reviewed, scored, ranked, and selected by a third-party organization specializing in higher education independent from the association. Applicants are scored based on financial need, academic rigor, extracurricular/community involvement, and writing through a short essay. Scholarship winners will be notified in the summer of 2025.
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Spring Into Action: Find Your Next Propane Service Tech Today
As Texas propane businesses prepare for the busy spring season, the need for skilled service technicians has never been greater. Retirements, industry growth, and an overall labor shortage continue to challenge companies looking for qualified workers. Fortunately, GeneratioNext Propane Pros is proving to be a game-changer in workforce development, connecting propane businesses with eager job seekers across the state.
A Growing Talent Pipeline
In just a year since its launch, GeneratioNext Propane Pros—powered by the Propane Council of Texas and the Texas Propane Gas Association—has already delivered impressive results:
• 21 known hires have been made through the platform.
• 186 employer locations have registered, expanding the network of hiring propane businesses.
• 731 job seekers are enrolled and actively searching for opportunities.
• 179 cities have job seekers ready to work, bringing fresh talent to the propane industry across Texas.
• 75 career fairs and presentations have helped spread the word to the next generation of propane professionals.
With a growing labor gap and in-
creasing consumer demand for propanepowered solutions, having a resource like GeneratioNext Propane Pros is a critical tool for business owners.
A Proven Hiring Solution
Craig Hill, owner of Hill Gas, understands the difficulty of hiring in the propane industry.
"Hiring has always been a struggle, and
past job boards delivered little to no results. But GeneratioNext changed the game. I’ve already made one hire and have two more promising interviews. These candidates came to me excited about a career in propane. This program takes the headache out of hiring!"
For companies struggling to find workers, this program provides direct access to a motivated talent pool that understands the propane industry and is eager to build a career in it.
The Future of Propane Starts Here
Carly Donsbach Hoover, Talent Acquisition Recruiter at Meritum Energy/Pico Propane, has also seen firsthand how this program benefits companies in need of workers:
"I have not been with the propane industry as long as my colleagues have, but it doesn’t take much to recognize that propane is on the rise and demand is continuing to increase every single day. In turn, this means more job openings, more people needed – enter, GeneratioNext Propane Pros. By far, this was better than any job or career fair I could have gone to. I think this program is exactly what our industry needs to fill those gaps in the application and hiring process, and every
company, big or small, should take part in this advantageous program."
With more than 4,400 qualified candidates nationwide, propane businesses in Texas now have access to an expanding workforce at their fingertips. Employers can filter job seekers based on location, experience, CDL certification, and more— all at no cost, thanks to a grant from the Propane Council of Texas.
Don’t Wait—Spring Into Action!
The arrival of warmer weather brings
a surge in service calls, maintenance work, and new installations. Ensuring your team is fully staffed now will help avoid workforce shortages during peak demand.
If you’re looking for skilled, motivated workers ready to build a career in propane, GeneratioNext Propane Pros is the best place to start.
Visit NextGenPropane.com to create an employer profile, post job openings, and connect with the next generation of propane professionals today.
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It’s Time to Complete the Annual Retail Propane Sales Report for 2024 Ensure Texas
gets fair share of PERC Funding
For over 20 years, the Propane Edu- cation & Research Council (PERC) has produced an exclusive annual report on U.S. odorized propane sales by market, region and state. Each year PERC relies on propane retailers like you to provide the data necessary to portray an accurate picture of the industry’s retail sales performance and how much funding they should give to each state for educational and marketing programs.
If you have previously shared your company’s data for this report, thank you. We know that your time is valuable, and we appreciate your participation. If not, we urge you to do so beginning with the 2024 sales data now being collected. Please go to propane.com/salesreport and follow the on-screen instructions for completing the report.
Based on feedback from industry members, PERC has simplified the collection steps and created a secure collection form owned and managed by PERC, rather than a third party. PERC is confident you will find the process less onerous while maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of your submission.
Individual responses are kept CONFIDENTIAL and anonymous. Only summary statistics are presented in the final report, and data is never disclosed to third parties.
Why Report?
The final report is shared on propane.com and incorporated into the National and State Propane Profiles, showing market trends by state and region.
Help ensure Texas gets its fair share of funding so we can continue Propane Council of Texas (ProCOT) programs like:
• Firefighter Training
• Workforce Recruitment
• Duty to Warn Mailing Program
• Propane Safety Wall Calendar
• Propane Living Newsletter
• Other marketing, safety and training programs.
• Builder, Plumber & HVAC Outreach Sales reports are due May 15, 2025. If you have any questions about the
2023 Annual Retail Propane Sales Report, please email salesreport@propane.com or call the PERC office at (202) 452-8975.
Isn’t it time to trust that your insurance works as hard as you do?
• You will receive good old fashioned customer service.
• You will be educated about your policy coverages and shown where you might be vulnerable.
• You will receive multiple options for your insurance.
TPGA Meetings
March 4-5, 2025
Inside the Industry
LPG Charity Fund Bowling Tournament
The Tom Garner Memorial Bowling Tournament returns on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at Bowlero Willowbrook (AMF Willow Lanes) in Houston, TX. This private industry event benefits the LPG Charity Fund and offers a thrilling "No Taps" tournament format—where knocking down just nine pins counts as a strike!
Teams of five players will compete in two "No Taps" games, with cash prizes of up to $2,000 for those who bowl two perfect games and up to $1,000 for a single perfect game. Spots are limited and available on a firstcome, first-served basis, so early registration is encouraged. Players can sign up individually or as part of a team.
Not a bowler? No problem! Spectators and lunch guests ("pinsetters") are welcome with a reservation.
Join us for a great day of friendly competition and camaraderie, all in support of the LPG Charity Fund.
Register today at www.lpgfund.com
In Memoriam
Mary Harrison Huffhines, 97, passed away peacefully on February 24, in Weatherford, TX, where she had lived since December 2015. Mary was born June 26, 1927, in Richardson, Texas. After graduating from SMU, Mary entered lab school at Baylor and was subsequently hired to manage the hematology department under Dr. Hill at Baylor Hospital in Dallas in 1950. In 1962 Mary began her second career as the office manager for Huffhines Butane Gas Co., established in 1939, building a successful business with her husband, John, until selling it in 2002. Mary and John were very active TPGA, making numerous lifelong friends. Our thoughts are with her family.
Donna Abraham Stainback, 88, of Greenville, TX passed away March 11. Texas. Donna was born September 18, 1936, in Canadian, Texas. It was at Texas Tech that she met her future husband, Raiford H. Stainback, Jr. and they were married on June 6, 1958. The family moved to Greenville, Texas in 1959, as Raiford took over his uncle's propane business, Greenville Automatic Gas Company. She is survived by her four children, Kent Stainback (Amy Stainback), Kari Stainback, Tim Stainback (Stacey Stainback) and Lacy Feezel (Kelly Feezel). Our thoughts are with her family.
RECALL ALERT: Boilers Due to CO Poisoning Hazard
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Triangle Tube are announcing the recall of Prestige Solo, Prestige Excellence, and Aerco Esteem condensing gas boilers. The boilers can release carbon monoxide (CO) due to delayed ignitions or component damage, posing a serious risk of injury and death.
Triangle Tube has received two reports of death due to CO poisoning associated with the recalled boilers.
Triangle Tube has also received 25 reports of CO leaks from the recalled boilers.
Since 2011, approximately 60,000 of the boilers were sold in the United States and about 7,500 of the boilers were sold in Canada.
The recalled Prestige Solo, Prestige Excellence, and Aerco Esteem boilers are wall-hung condensing gas boilers housed in a white metal box. “Prestige” is printed on the white front panel of the recalled Prestige Solo and Prestige Excellence boilers. “Aerco” is printed on the front of the recalled Esteem boilers. Recalled boilers were manufactured between December 2011 and April 2019 and have serial number prefixes beginning with AE, PT, PA, PTE and PEA. Please visit the Triangle Tube recall website for directions on identifying if you have a recalled boiler by serial number, which can be located either on the Boiler Rating Label located on the white front panel, on a panel on the right hand side of the boiler, or behind the boiler front door. Go to www.cpsc.gov for models and serial number ranges included in this recall.
Inside the Industry
Get Ready: Texas Emergency Supplies
Sales Tax Holiday Returns
April 26-28
Mark your calendars! The Texas Emergency Preparation Supplies Sales Tax Holiday runs from April 26–28, 2025, giving your customers the chance to stock up on essential emergency supplies tax free.
Qualifying items include:
Under $3,000
• Portable generators priced Less than $75
• Carbon monoxide & smoke detectors
• Battery-powered flashlights, lanterns, and radios
• Fuel containers, first aid kits, fire extinguishers, and anchoring kits.
Things Not Included
These are some of the supplies that do not qualify for tax exemption.
• Camping stoves
• Camping supplies and tents
• Chainsaws and plywood
• Extension ladders and stepladders
• Repair or replacement parts for emergency preparation supplies.
• Services performed on, or related to, emergency preparation supplies.
• Batteries for automobiles, boats and other motorized
There’s no limit on the number of qualifying items purchased, and no exemption certificate required. Purchases can be made in-store, online, or by phone—but must be completed within the holiday window to qualify.
Help your customers prepare for hurricane season, wildfires, or flash floods while saving on key emergency items like propanepowered generators and safety supplies. For full details and qualifying items, visit https://comptroller.texas.gov/. Questions? Call the Texas Comptroller at 800-252-5555.
Congratulations to Brian Green for being named a 2025 LP Gas Rising Leader. He has been in the propane business for a decade and is president of Green’s Blue Flame Gas / Houston. He first had a career as an engineer in oil and gas, but was frustrated with not being able to see the big picture of the business he was in. That’s when he decided to join the family business. He’s involved with TPGA, NPGA and has been a part of NPGA Benchmarking since 2019.
Classifieds
Contact: Jim Oliver 832-643-7968 petrostar@pdq.net Garrett Insurance Agency, Inc Formerly, Southern Star Insurance Agency, Inc Cecil Joiner, Risk Manager
Western Propane Convention and Trade Show Reno, Nevada
20-21
TPGA Board & Committee Meetings Austin, TX 20-21
2025 Propane Sales Forum Chicago, IL 24
TPGA Scholarship Foundation deadline 26
TPGA Closed for Memorial Day
PROPANE with PURPOSE
Propane Powered Walk-Behind Saw Packs Punch
Propane can power some of the toughest jobs. In addition to being clean burning, it packs a punch for tough tasks.
One of those tough jobs is cutting through concrete and asphalt. Diamond Products LLC has three options for propane saws, including the CC1823BVXLP Propane Walk Behind Saw.
This saw is built with the 23 HP Briggs Vanguard engine converted to propane vapor draw. The 20 lb. propane tank is horizontally-mounted and includes a low oil alert feature. There is easy access to the battery with a heavy-duty isolator switch to prevent battery drain. Weighing in at about 480 lbs., the CC1823BVXLP model features self-propelled travel for easy cutting. This saw comes in a 14-inch or 20inch model.
Other features include a screw feed raise and lower system, lifting hook standard on all models, self-aligning blade shaft bearings and an hour meter.
According to Diamond Products, these engines are similar in performance with standard carbon fueled engines but will provide longer engine life with lower main-
tenance costs. They have substantially less carbon which creates less wear on the engines with less carbon in the oil. Unlike standard gasoline engines, LPG engines do not have the shellac build up in the carburetors creating fuel jet clogs.
Diamond Products is one of the largest diamond tool
and equipment manufacturers in the United states. For over 50 years, Diamond Products has provided diamond tools and equipment for the construction industry.
You can find out more about them and their products, including this walk-behind saw, at www.diamondproducts.com.
