Propane tanks are a modern convenience. They run everything from outdoor grills to heaters, fire pits, and even generators. But propane tanks also carry safety risks if stored improperly. Proper storage techniques are paramount both when keeping a propane tank cool and safe during the summer heat and when storing it during winter. This article outlines the options for storing propane tanks indoors and outdoors and explains why LP Propane is the best for all your propane storage and supply needs.
There are various alternative storage methods indoors but outdoors is by far the safest, provided that some precautions have been taken to stay clear of some potential hazards. The place where you place your propane tank is a crucial point in ensuring safety as well as longevity.
Keep storage places away from direct sunlight, especially during the hot summer season. Install propane cylinders in an area that has cross ventilation and is shaded by trees or branches. Do not expose propane cylinders to temperatures above 120 °F (49 °C). Keep it in a covered patio, shed, or a shaded place.
There is no need to be scared about the freezing in the winter as its residue will not get affected by it. But what’s most interesting is that propane does not freeze easily. Even if it’s left uncovered and exposed to cold, there is no need to worry about anything serious. It is always better to have a stable base either made of concrete or wooden planks.
In case of a leakage, propane may accumulate and flare up because it is a flammable substance in case it finds an ignition source. Propane is denser than air, so it will settle low-lying. You shouldn’t place the tanks close to the basement or vents or open windows since the gas might seep through and accumulate within your house.
An external propane tank should be at least 10 feet away from the house, garage, or any other building you might have.
One of the golden rules when it comes to propane storage is to position the tank upright. This ensures that the overpressure vent is in contact with propane vapor, not liquid. You should store tanks on the right side or upside down rather than leading to the leakage of possible hazards. Using platforms, milk crates, or propane tank holders designed for that purpose are some ways of ensuring that you have set the tanks upright safely.
Store your propane tank at a distance of at least 10 feet from any flammable materials, like grills, fire pits, or electrical appliances. In the worst-case scenario when your tank leaks or ignites, proximity to flammable items can lead to pretty serious accidents. It is also prudent to store multiple propane tanks so that if one ignites, the others do not catch fire too.
To reduce the exposure of the tank to the rain, it is either installed on a covered tank tarp or a propane tank box that covers it in snowy regions. Propane does not corrode in cold temperatures, but corrosion might occur due to moisture accumulation, thus compromising its integrity.
While it may be easier to store propane indoors for most people, propane tanks should never be housed indoors inside a residence or a structure directly attached to a house such as a basement or living room or attached garage. While propane is extremely flammable and leaks in an enclosed space, even a small ignition source could easily turn into a serious explosion by igniting the propane.
Detached garages and sheds are safer locations to store a propane tank indoors because such shelters would protect the tanks from extreme weather conditions, while also allowing for ventilation. It is equally important that the storage area be somewhere with proper ventilation to keep gas from accumulating if it should leak. The tank must be stored on a horizontal surface and on level ground to avoid tipping over and must not have flammable materials, electrical tools, and heat sources nearby.
A propane tank to be stored indoors should have the gas valve tightened closed for there to be no possibility of leaks. It is also important to frequently inspect the tank for the presence of corrosion, damage, or wear. Tanks older than 10 years must also be inspected by professionals, and qualified for safe usage.
Don't let propane pose a threat to your space!
Store it with care for a safe and happy place!
Keep your propane tank safe and operational at all times by following best practices.
Avoid keeping your propane tank where extreme temperatures occur. Store it away from areas where the temperature exceeds 120 °F (49 °C) or drops lower than −40 °F (−40 °C). Extreme temperatures are known to raise the pressure inside the propane tank too high at high-temperature levels or too low to use at low-temperature levels.
During scorching summer months, direct sunlight shining through your tank will cause it to heat up in excess. When you have stored your tanks, ensure that they are placed in a shaded area or covered with a tarp to avoid heating up.
Before you store a tank, you should leak-check it. To check the valve and connections for leaks, you can use a solution of soapy water. Where the solution creates bubbles, it is a source of a leak that you must respond to urgently.
If your propane tank has signs of rust, peeling paint, or dents, then it is probably time to replace it. Such tanks should not be refilled due to safety hazards. LP Propane provides inspection and replacement of tanks for safe and industry-standard propane tanks.
Store several propane tanks away from one another. Tanks should be a sufficient distance from one another in the event a fire or leak occurs as this is when multiple tanks can have a chance of igniting. Each tank should be accessible and the area where it is stored should not have any form of debris, flammable materials, or anything that can hinder ventilation.
Also Read: How Much Does A Full Propane Tank Weigh?
At LP Propane, we bring in the finest quality propane tanks and storage solutions to cater to our client’s needs while enhancing safety. Due to more than a decade of industry exposure, our company has accumulated rich knowledge about the best practices in storing propane and provides a variety of tanks that are very rugged, reliable, and safe for both residential and commercial use.
Energy tanks with propane are efficient and versatile, but proper storage of the tanks assures safety. Proper storage, be it indoors or outdoors, reduces accidents and prolongs the life span of your propane tank. Always store your propane tank in the upright position, not near heat sources, and in well-ventilated areas. LP Propane is here to be your reliable partner for high-quality propane products and storage.
