How to Refuel a CNG-Powered Vehicle at Home

While a compressed natural gas (CNG) powered vehicle may be tempting due to fuel economy and a low pollutants, you must consider the rather tricky business of refueling the vehicle. In the United States (and a few other countries), you may refuel at home using your municipal gas line in your home. You will need a few added components to tap into that line.

Things You'll Need

• Home refueling appliance
• Natural gas line

Instructions

1. Purchase a home refueling device along with your CNG-powered vehicle. Honda, the first and largest seller of CNG cars in the United States, ships a special device to refuel at a home with natural gas line connected. Dealers will lease machines to be installed in your home for a low monthly fee.

2. Read the directions for your fueling device thoroughly. The pumps are fitted with a special seal that may take some time to master. Most manufacturers of home refueling devices provide training or instructional videos with purchase.

3. Plug your car into the appliance to refuel. Since the pressure of natural gas at your home is slow, you must fuel the car overnight. Some companies have garages with home-style refueling devices, which fill your car while you work. It takes about 8 hours to fill the tank completely.

4. Remove the hose before driving off in the car. Your home refueling appliance should shut off automatically when it is done filling your car, but you have to remember to disconnect all the hoses to avoid damage to your equipment.

5. Keep your eye on the gas gauge. CNG-powered vehicles travel an average of 200 to 250 miles before needing to be refueled. If you run out of gas while away from home, the car will need to be towed to your home or one of the limited CNG stations.

6. Make it a habit to fill your CNG-powered car every night, so you won't have to visit a fast-fill station on your way to work.

Tips & Warnings

• Check with your city or county before you set up a home refueling station for your CNG vehicle, as it may be illegal or you may need special permits. Most areas require at least a building permit.

• Home refueling devices are fitted with safety sensors that cease operation if the hose is not connected properly. This reduces the chance of fires and other accidents. Still, always make sure the hose is properly attached before you begin fueling.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish