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Are underground propane tanks safe?

Above ground or underground propane tanks are intrinsically safe and should there be any propane leak, the soil or water will not be harmed by the propane. The underground propane tank regulations that have been established by the federal and local governments require that specific standards be followed in the construction and burial process.

Each unground propane tank must pass certain underground propane tank testing before they are released for use by the public, for commercial or residential use. Once a tank is installed at a customer’s site, they become responsible for protecting and the upkeep of their underground propane tank in addition to regular testing and recertification. The four main responsibilities of an underground propane tank owner are:

• The general maintenance
• Protecting the tank from corrosion and leaks
• Protecting the tank against flooding and other extreme weather conditions
• Have a complete and thorough understanding of the warnings, terms, and conditions of the warranty

The only person that should install and service an underground propane tank is a certified and qualified service technician. Even if you have outright purchased the propane tank, it should only be maintained and serviced by a technician of the same consideration. 

Can underground propane tanks leak?      

It is rare this happens, but yes, there can be leaks from an underground propane tank. However, not from the tank, but the lines connected to the underground propane tank. The leak is easy to find simply by smell. 

While natural and propane gas is odorless, the chemical Mercaptan is added to the product that creates an odor. That odor, like rotten eggs, will help you find where the underground propane tank lines are leaking. As you detect the odor, you can start digging by hand to find the leaking line Then repair or replace the line with the same type of material. 

Can underground propane tanks explode?

Yes, an underground propane tank is full of flammable material that is under pressure. However, because of the strict regulations for the manufacturing of propane tanks, they are durable and hardy containers. With the built-in safety precautions, exploding underground propane tanks is rare. 

In the case that an underground propane tank is subjected to excessive heat, like a fire, the contents inside the tank will heat up and expand. If flames or a resource that ignition is possible can result in an explosion.

Is it better to bury a propane tank?

As a hydrocarbon gas that is liquefied through pressure, propane gas is an excellent, clean-burning, non-toxic fuel. A great source of power for commercial and residential uses. But which is better – an underground propane tank vs above ground propane tank? Let’s review the advantages and disadvantages of both: 

Above Ground Propane Tank Advantages 

• Less expensive.
• Easy accessibility. 
• Less expensive installation.
• Long-term use.
• Lower maintenance costs because the technician has easier access. 

Above Ground Propane Tank Drawbacks

• An eyesore and distraction from any outdoor decor. 
• Takes up outdoor space, minimizing room for gardens, gazebo, or swimming pool.
• Vulnerability to vandalism and possible accidents with collisions. 

Underground Propane Tank Advantages

• The propane tank is hidden from view.
• Temperature controlled and not exposed to the weather. 
• Safer if there a leak, the propane will absorb into the underground, safer from fire.
• A non-toxic fuel, it is insoluble in water.

Underground Propane Tank Disadvantages

• The cost of a physical propane tank is the same above or underground. 
• The cost for excavation, labor, and the anodes.
• Additional equipment and parts to use an underground propane tank. 
• Requires sacrificial anodes to prevent tank corrosion underground. 
• Property preparation for the excavation can be time-consuming and costly. 
• Requires permit from the local government. 

How far does an underground propane tank need to be from the house?

An underground propane tank installation must meet several parameter requirements for safety that include the following: 

• Minimum 20 feet from the house 
• Minimum 10 feet from property lines 
• Gas lines must be buried in the safest route between the house and the underground propane tank
• Tank and lines cannot be buried near any potential ignition sources like the HVAC system or other electrical appliances
• Cannot have any trees or possible tree routes near the tank or line

So, are propane gas tanks safe?

Propane gas is a petroleum gas in liquefied form, LPG, that is compressed and stored in tanks. It is then delivered in a liquid form by trucks that fill the tanks at homes and businesses. 

With proper use and storage, this colorless, non-toxic, virtually odorless gas is a safe method of energy. At home it can be used on the outdoor grill, for a gas fireplace, and even to heat your home, water, and food. It is essentially a clean and safe energy source. 

However, because the liquid form is compressed and stored in tanks, it is under high pressure. This leads to people unfamiliar with LPG tanks having concerns about them exploding. Each propane tank, whether it is portable or stationary, is equipped with a PRV (Pressure Relief Valve), located within another valve for safety and then incorporated with the propane tank’s main valve.  

If the tank’s pressure increases, gas is automatically released by the PRV to ease that pressure. Until a tank has reached up to 1,000 PSGI (pounds per square gauge), a well-maintained propane tank will not explode. It is for this reason that if you smell any gascoming from a propane tank, immediate propane tank repair is a must. 

Having a complete and thorough understanding of propane gas tanks is always important. Getting immediate propane tank repair when necessary can prevent numerous accidents. Remembering this, you can heat your home, cook your meals, and heat up water with peace of mind. 

Can a propane tank leak make you sick?

The vapor from propane gas is an asphyxiating gas, but not toxic. Propane will displace any oxygen in the lungs, making breathing difficult or even impossible if inhaled for an extended time in a high concentration. This is why as soon as there is any suspicion of a leak, propane tank repair should be sought immediately. 

Breathing will become difficult if you find yourself breathing in propane fumes, and physical activity can make the situation worse. Symptoms of propane gas exposure will depend on how the exposure to the gas happened. Symptoms that may be experienced with low exposure are:  

• Coughing
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Headaches
• Irregular heartbeat
• Nausea

Symptoms that may be experienced with significant exposure are: 

• Asphyxiation
• Convulsions
• Diarrhea
• Heart Failure
• Numbness or pain in limbs
• Quick loss of consciousness

When liquid propane escapes from a tank, it is extremely cold and contact with the propane at that point can irritate the skin and cause frostbite. Frostbite can lead to skin blistering, tissue death, and infections. When any chill is felt from a propane tank, it should be taken to the dealer, or the LPG company should be called for emergency propane tank repair. 

Can propane tanks be repaired?

A damaged propane tank cannot be repaired and reused. There are many laws regarding the regulation of propane tanks for sale, rent, or repair. There are also significant rules surrounding propane and propane tanks that must be thoroughly understood, and extensive training is required of any propane suppliers. It is their responsibility to advise the homeowners that rent the tanks for their grills or other home uses on best practices regarding propane tanks. 

Never should a homeowner attempt propane tank repairs or make any modifications to a propane system or tank. This should only be done by a licensed individual or a propane supplier. If a supplier sees that a propane tank repair or modification has been made by someone who is not authorized, they can refuse to service the customer. It is federal law that any damaged propane tank that cannot be repaired should be destroyed. 

How do you fix a propane tank leak?

If you discover that the propane tank you’re using is leaking, it is imperative that you deal with the matter immediately. While propane tank repairs should only be done by authorized and licensed dealers or supplier, there are a few steps you can take that may stop the leak. 

Usually, there is a hissing sound coming from a leaking propane tank. You may notice a smell like rotten eggs or skunk. This is not the odor of the propane gas itself, but is still a sign of leakage. This is because while propane gas is odorless, suppliers add a chemical that creates this odor. 

If you have noticed a hissing sound or an odor, turn off everything electrical or gas nearby to avoid possible sparks that can cause an explosion, and then follow these steps:

• Turn the Main Gas Supply Valve Off

This should be the first step taken to prevent any damage or danger. Do this by turning the gas supply valve knob clockwise. 

• Remove Any Potential Igniters

For safety, turn off anything that can be a potential igniter, such as appliances, cellphone, lights, and open flames. 

• Open the Windows

Open all the windows if the propane leak is inside the house. When too much gas builds up from a leaking tank, it is putting your house at risk. 

• Find the Source of the Leak

After turning off the propane tank valve, there will typically be enough gas left to help you determine where it is leaking. As quickly as possible, mix one cup of dishwashing liquid with one cup warm water in a spray bottle. Spray until the surface is covered. 

Next, open the valve slowly. If bubbles start forming in the solution, that’s where the leak is located. Small bubbles indicate a small leak. Large bubbles indicate a large leak. Mark each area that has bubbles. 

Turn the cylinder valve back off, and with a Phillips-head screwdriver tighten the screws on the gauge face. 

Let the tank sit for ten minutes and spray the soap/water mixture on the areas you marked earlier. Turn the cylinder valve back on slowly and see if bubbles are still forming. 

If you still see bubbles, propane tank repair isn’t possible. Turn the tank in to the supplier and request a new one. If the propane leak is inside your home, evacuate and call 911 immediately. After that, call a propane dealer or supplier. They will have the equipment and knowledge of how to repair the propane tank valve if that’s the problem. 

What can cause a propane tank to leak?

There are three common causes for propane leaking at the valve. 

Cause 1: Bleeder Valve

The bleeder valve or fixed level gauge is typically opened when a propane tank is filled. If it isn’t closed all the way after the fill is done, propane will begin leaking. 

If the leak is at the valve but it isn’t open, it may be from a clogged coil, which happens when a propane tank has been leaking. It is an easy propane tank repair, starting with turning the bleeder valve off. 

Cause 2: Open the Relief Valve

A propane tank will have a relief valve that relieves pressure in the tank when there is too much. When the propane tank is in heated areas, the PRV opens a bit to relieve any pressure building up.  Sometimes, propane gas will leak from the opened PRV. 

For this propane tank repair, don’t turn the valve. Simply tap on it gently with a screwdriver to encourage the PRV to close on its own. You can run cool water over the tank with a hose to cool the tank down; this will prompt the valve to close as designed. 

Cause 3: Faulty Valve Stem

Now there is a possibility that the tank valve may be damaged and causing it to leak, which can be harmful and dangerous.  In this situation, do not attempt to do your own propane tank repair. Return the tank to the dealer or supplier. 

Will an overfilled propane tank leak?

Absolutely!  Fortunately, a certified and licensed propane supplier knows to leave enough empty space in a propane tank for expansion. When a propane tank has been overfilled, it is putting the tank, and you, at risk of leaks or explosion. 

How much does it cost to replace a propane tank?

There are different sizes and types of propane tanks. They can be installed in the ground or set up above ground. Of course, there are also propane tanks for outdoor grills. Both in-ground and above ground propane tanks cost $1,500 and up to $3,800.  Portable tanks for outdoor grills can cost $40 to $60 depending on the retailer. 

Are there special propane regulator installation instructions? 

Doing your own propane installation is a safe weekend DIY project.  You need to check local governing authorities about building codes and permit first. A basic propane installation can usually be completed in few hours, borrowing any unforeseen complexities and the weather. 

Within in a weekend at the most, you should be through installing propane gas line from tank to house and ready for a certified propane technician or plumber inspect and pressure test the setup. The main materials you’ll need are: 

• The propane tank
• Tank bases or blocks
• Approved propane gas line – 10 feet from the house
• Propane gas fittings 

With these materials on hand, you can follow these steps to complete your propane installation: 

• Prepare the indoor appliances
  With the assumption that you’ll have propane appliance installation needs, you want to make sure the appliances using propane are installed with proper venting and have a gas line piped into the house from the outside. 
• Clear a pathway
  Make sure there is a four foot wide clear path for the propane tank delivery. The propane truck that will fill your propane tank will have a hose that reaches up to 80 feet. Any obstacles can hinder this delivery, like structures or highline wires. 
• Ground preparation.
  The ground where your propane tank will be placed should have a level gravel surface, a cement pad, or some other type of firm ground base. The propane distributor you choose to use will provide you specific clearances required for the size of tank your propane installation is planned to include. 
• The trenching.
  The trenching for your propane installation should be a minimum of 18” deep, If there is a driveway between where the tank is placed and the house, a minimum of 24” deep is recommended.

Propane gas is the safest and easiest to store. It is common for homeowners in rural areas to store anywhere from 100 gallons to 1000 gallons. Propane gas won’t have the same energy output as diesel fuel, but it is excellent to have during hurricane and tornado season. 

Again, as a reminder, once you have completed your propane tank installation, schedule an appointment with a propane technician or a plumber. They can inspect all the connections, the lines, and complete a pressure check too. Call 817-341-7240 today for your propane installation in Granbury, TX.

If 2020 should have taught us anything, it was to be prepared!  In addition to the mandatory quarantine, we’ve experienced several natural disasters and unexpected weather across the country that turned off the heat and light. Those with gasoline and propane generators were more prepared than the rest of us and we all can learn what benefits were available for those with generators.  But why propane generators over other types of generators?

• When gasoline pumps aren’t working due to no power, propane fuel is still available because it is stored in individual tanks and bulk cylinders.
• Propane has a limitless shelf life unlike gasoline, which begins to degrade without a stabilizer.
• A propane generator that sits idle for months doesn’t fill up with carbon deposits or contamination like a gasoline generator.

With those three facts, propane generators will give you more confidence of being at the ready when you need it, a peace of mind. When the lights are out, the party doesn’t have to be over with propane generators for a power source. Propane generators offer benefits that gasoline or natural gas generators don’t:

ENVIRONMENTAL ADVANTAGE

Propane gas is a ‘clean’ fuel, meaning it has lower production of carbon monoxide compared to gasoline or other fuels. Propane generators release approximately half the CO that a gasoline generator does and creates fewer emissions. With propane being stored in cylinders and tanks, there isn’t any risk of it spilling like gasoline either. Propane generators connect directly to the propane cylinder or tank with a hose.

LESS EXPENSIVE

Even while being prepared for an emergency, we need to respect the environment too, but every business and homeowner has concerns financially too. Propane generators used regularly have an advantage over other generators with a lower cost fuel that is available across the country at most gas stations and hardware stores, or propane suppliers. Because it has almost an unlimited shelf life, you can store additional propane bottles and cylinders within local regulations.

How loud is propane generator?

That will depend on the power level it is producing. The noise level of propane generators is related to the amount of power being produced, so with 6,000 watts and up of power, you’ll have up to 80 decibels of sound. Smaller propane generators that produce 3,000 watts of power have a decibel of around 60 decibels.

Can propane generator be converted to natural gas?

Yes, in fact, there are do-it-yourself kits to change propane generator to natural gas and to gasoline too! Yes, you are reading this right, you can have a generator that will run on all 3 types of gas, giving you a true backup generator to have during power failures. The do-it-yourself kits allow you to do this yourself with just a few simple steps instead of taking your propane generators to the shop.

For dependability, what is the difference between using a propane generator vs natural gas? Propane generators allow you store cylinders and tanks for years without the fuel going bad or gumming up like gasoline does. Nor do propane generators pollute the air, but still, natural gas is at an unlimited supply coming from the earth. It doesn’t go bad or get gummy either.

Would it be beneficial to have a propane generator with inverter? A dual-fuel inverter generator, also referred to as a hybrid generator can operate on either gasoline or propane. These types of propane generators  converts AC power ( alternating current) to DC power (direct current) power using the alternator and converts back to AC current by the inverter. Call 817-341-7240 today for your propane generator needs in Granbury, TX.

When it comes to be which is safer for the environment, they are on even scorecard with both sharing a positive environmentally responsibility. Natural gas burns clean greenhouse gas but can be toxic if a leak goes unrepaired. On the other hand, with the various propane uses, it is not damaging or toxic and is considered an eco-friendly, green fuel before and after it combusts.  

Is propane better than natural gas?

The differences are confusing when examining natural gas versus propane gas, especially when you consider the fact that natural gas is a combination of other gases  including propane along with butane, ethane, and methane.  When choosing which fuel source to have in your home, there are several factors to consider: 

• Safety: Natural gas and propane gas are highly flammable and must be carefully handled. Like many other thing, bureaucratic red tape makes it difficult to difficult to identify and repair. 
• Environment: The emissions of natural gas are 50% less than coal, to it is deemed a greenhouse gas. However, the toxicity of natural gas is higher than propane gas, which isn’t toxic, nor does it damage the environment. Because propane would soak into the soil if spilled, it gets the win for being more eco-friendly.
• Cost and Efficiency: When it comes to comparing the cost difference between natural gas and propane gas, uses and other factors must be considered. In 2019 natural gas had a lower cost per gallon than propane gas, but it takes more natural gas to heat the identical appliances. Propane gives you up to 2x more heat, so less is needed for the various propane uses.  

Is propane a good heating choice?

Heating is one of the best propane uses. A properly maintained propane heating system will your energy costs as well as up to 68% of the greenhouse gas emissions. As one of the keyways for propane uses, it provide a quality heat and great when heating a home in zones. 

With so much information here, some of which can cause concern, you may wonder what are the advantages of using propane? Propane uses are wide and varied, from barbeque grills to central heat, engines and portable cook and heating stoves. By adding butane to propane, it becomes a liquid that is commonly referred to as LPG. The advantages to be obtained by using propane gas are:  

• The Supply: Propane is in plentiful supply, but the potential of more propane uses are limited for this petroleum byproduct. While petroleum as a fuel source is universally available, propane is too, but when there is shortage of petroleum, propane uses aren’t as varied. 
• The Price: Propane gas major advantage is the cost because produces more energy units than other fuel sources. Propane gas is efficient-burning, with a shorter energy savings period on propane appliances. 
• The Safety: Propane is a safe source of energy, however, there are some risks with propane uses. Like any flammable gas, propane gas is combustible, and can leave potential devastating results in its wake. Because propane is heavier than air, keeping propane in an enclosed area is dangerous if the tank leaks. Sudden decompression is dangerous with propane tank as well. 
• The Environment: Having may propane uses makes propane an enviro-friendly source of energy. Propane meets or exceeds all standards established by the EPA and is water soluble and nontoxic.

Need propane in Granbury, TX? Call 817-341-7240 today.

The different types of propane tanks used are: 

• Single Use: This size of propane tank is used once and disposed of because it isn’t refillable. The portability and ease of use makes it desirable when gas is needed for one time. 
• Refillable Propane Tank: This type of propane tank is used in rural homes where natural gas isn’t available. A large metal tank that is designed not to leak and connects to a main gas line that is connected to the home. This type of propane tank, inspections are needed to be certain there isn’t any gas leaking. 
• Acme Valve: This propane tank is used on outdoor grills and can be exchanged as they empty without a wrench because of the Acme Valve style.  These type of propane tank, inspections are done before they are refilled with propane gas and placed for sell. 
• 20 Pound Cylinder: Used for camping, grilling, and RV travel, holds approximately four gallons of propane, and has the OPD (overfill prevention device) valve. This type of propane tank, inspection is done before refilling the tank to check for leaks.
• 100 Pound Cylinders: These types of propane tanks are seen outside rural area homes and provides propane gas to cook, heat homes and water. This type of propane tank, inspection is recommended for safety of the home and surrounding areas. 

A propane gas tank is resilient and has been designed and built to hold LPG (liquid propane gas) while under pressure and in different types of elements and weather conditions. It is for this reason that the most sturdy propane gas tank will have a shelf life, and any propane tank, inspection is needed to check for any possible deterioration, leaks, or weakness. 

How do I know if my propane tank is outdated?

Near the handle of every portable propane gas tanks is a series of numbers stamped into the tanks. These numbers provide information like the capacity rate and the tank’s origination. A date is stamped on the handle close to the valve that indicates the tank’s manufacturing date, read in a Month-Year format like 12-19 meaning it was built in December of 2019.

Do propane tanks need to be tested?

Yes, it is federal law which is established and overseen by the Department of Transportation (DOT). Every propane gas company is required to test each propane gas tank before refilling them. The propane tank inspection and leak test checks for any leaks with the tank and its piping system. The plumbing joints and seal integrity are tested to assure the tank is working in a safe manner. 

How often does a propane tank need to be inspected?

Propane tanks fall under the jurisdiction of DOT (Department of Transportation) when it comes to certification, propane tank inspection, and recertification.  As of January 2017, the following rules were updated and implemented by DOT:

• Initial requalification every 10 years from the date of original manufacture.
• Requalification by volumetric expansion testing every 10 years.
• Requalification period for propane tank cylinders by proof pressure every 10 years.

What happens if you use an expired propane tank?

A gas propane tank that near the expiration date stamped on the handle needs to be recertified or exchanged for a new tank. This can be done a qualified propane gas service technician. To have a propane tank inspection and recertification done can range in pricing between $35 and as much as $60. In most cases, the technician or LPG company will exchange your current tank for a newer one. It is important to learn and understand the markings on a propane tank, inspection should be current so that you can be comfortable in knowing you have a safe propane gas tank. 

What is done to recertify a propane tank? and How long is propane tank recertification good for?

 There are 3 ways for propane tank recertification to be done and should only be done by a professional propane tank service tech that is certified to perform the recertification: 

• Visual propane tank inspection – all the connections, hoses, and lines are visually inspected all are connected tightly with no cracks. 
• Proof Pressure –  and air test of the propane gas tank at twice the service pressure and should be done every 7 years.
• Volumetric Expansion – this is a water jacket hydrostatic test at twice the marked service pressure and should be done every 10 years. 

How many times can a propane tank be recertified?

As long as the propane tank inspection doesn’t find any issues like bent, bulging, or cracked tanks, they can be recertified over and over, every 7 to 10 years as described above based on the method of propane tank inspection and recertifying method. 

Is propane cheaper if you own your own tank?

Propane tanks typically have annual consumption or rental fees if you don’t own them. What’s more, the propane supplier will recoup the cost of their asset on your property which can be done by raising their price per gallon above what you would get if you owned your own propane tank.

Can I install my own propane tank?

No, propane tank installation if it’s rented or owned will need to be installed by a certified technician. If you bought your tank you’ll have to hire a licensed person for propane tank installation. With a rented tank it can be installed by the company you rented it from.

How long will 100 gallons of propane last?

How long a 100-gallon propane tank will last depends on the sources that are using it. For example with a 20,000 BTU fireplace that runs 12 hours a day, it would last about thirty and a half days. 

How far away from the house does a propane tank need to be?

A propane tank installation should be distanced at a minimum of 10 feet from a building. The same distance should be applied being distanced away from a source of ignition and the property line. If two tanks are placed within three feet of one another the restriction clearance will increase to 25 feet.

Can I keep propane tank in garage?

You should store propane tanks in dry, open, and well-ventilated areas outdoors. They are not meant to be stored in a garage, shed, attic, or basement. They shouldn’t be brought indoors for any reason. The only safe time to store your tank is if it’s been emptied completely.

Is it safe to use a 20 lb propane tank indoors?

The National Fire Protection Association has regulations that make it unlawful to take any tank larger than 1 pound inside a residence. 

Are propane tanks dangerous?

If you run out of gas with your propane tank problems may arise such as gas leaks, rust build-up, fires, and explosions. A leak can occur when the tank is refilled after the gas line or appliance valve remains open after the supply runs out. Inside an empty tank, air and moisture will accumulate which can form rust build-up. This will unfortunately lower the concentration of odor propane gives making the gas more difficult to smell and detect if a leak forms. Finally, once a propane tank runs out of gas the pilot light on the appliance may go out which can cause fire and explosion risks.

Can propane tanks explode in the sun?

A propane bottle otherwise known as a tank won’t explode in the sun as it is designed to be in the sun or shade as they have reflective colors, pressure relief safety valves, and room for expansion. You may be able to store it outside yet make sure it’s away from your home and on a flat, solid surface. A propane tank explosion can happen with empty tanks so be aware of use. 

Get Assistance With a Propane Tank Installation From a Licensed Professional

A propane tank installation will need to be carried out by a licensed professional no matter if you own or rent a tank. Make sure to call a well-reputed propane company for assistance on any matters concerning propane tanks. They will be able to guide you through tank size options and set you up with placement and a plan that will best match your home’s specifications and use. Speak to a professional today about a propane tank installation.

Get more information regarding propane tank installation in Granbury, TX by calling 817-341-7240 with the experts at Heine Propane today!

Other propane safety concerns include tank damage and inhalation. Make sure your tanks are always safe and no ruptures are present: An explosion could occur with a ruptured tank. Change out tanks if they are dented, rusty, or otherwise damaged. you also have to be careful never to inhale the gas, as it could cause hypoxia, or oxygen deprivation, which can cause death. Heine Propane always stays alert to customer safety in Granbury, TX. Follow the link to safety videos or give us a call at 817-341-7240 to learn more.

Is smelling propane dangerous?

Normally odorless, propane gas is infused with chemicals to give it a foul smell so it can be detected when a leak is present. If you inhale propane, it can be dangerous, leading to hypoxia or even death. Some warning signs of illness caused by breathing in the gas include a burning sensation in the nose, coughing, dizziness or lightheadedness, headache, and weakness. If any of these symptoms or others like nausea occur when around gas, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Always stay alert to propane safety when using the gas. If you smell a foul odor from a propane-fuel appliance, this usually indicates there is a leak. Shut off the appliance, remove any open flames, leave the area, and call in professionals to get the leak repaired.

Can a propane tank explode?

Although propane is an explosive gas, propane tanks very rarely explode. Tanks or canisters have to be damaged or ruptured with an ignition source nearby to cause them to explode. Usually, what causes propane explosions is a leak in an enclosed and poorly ventilated space combined with some kind of ignition source—usually an open flame. The leaks usually occur because of damaged or worn gas regulators. Taking into account propane safety measures will eliminate the risks of explosions.

Safety for propane tanks

When handling propane tanks and using propane heaters and other appliances follow these propane safety tips:

• Never store portable tanks in basements or living spaces.
• Secure tanks properly when transporting them and do not leave them in your car or other closed vehicles.
• Keep temporary tanks secure when using them for heating, cooking, or hot water.
• Do not cook inside with a propane grill.
• Don’t use propane ovens or stoves for heating.
• Keep portable electric generators outside.
• Use qualified propane service professionals to hook up appliances and perform repairs.

Do you need ventilation when using a propane heater?

Good ventilation is one of the most important propane safety measures for a propane heater. Without good ventilation, carbon monoxide builds up in excess, and this could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. When using heaters in small spaces like sheds or hunting blinds, make sure to occasionally open doors or windows to let in fresh air because the heater consumes oxygen while it’s turned on.

How safe are propane grills?

As long as you exercise proper propane safety precautions, propane grills are very safe to cook with. These grills, like other grills, should only be used outside. You also have to make sure you shut off the gas valve to prevent gas from building up. If gas is left to build-up because the valve hasn’t been shut off, and an ignition source is available, an explosion could occur.

How to reset propane safety valve

Propane safety valves help regulate pressure inside the tank. Steady pressure must be maintained to avoid leaks or even explosions. On grills and other appliances, you want to reset the valve to drain out residual gas and boost performance. To reset the valve:

• Turn off and disconnect the tank.
• Switch the valves to the highest setting and then wait a few minutes while the valves reset and release pressure.
• Place valves on the appliance and turn everything off before reconnecting the tank and slowly turning the knob to the “on” position to prevent pressure from building up too quickly.

• Aesthetics: If your home or business is out in a rural area where the closest neighbor isn’t within eyesight, the above-ground propane tank probably isn’t an issue. If you’re in an area that is developing, perhaps acre lots with custom-built homes, then appearance is important and an above-ground propane tank would be unsightly, taking away from the charm and curb appeal. 
• Budget: The underground propane tank will have a higher cost than the above-ground because there is some excavation needed in addition to protective equipment that prevents corrosion and groundwater contamination. 
• Security: An underground propane tank is safer than an above-ground propane tank. Above ground propane tanks are sometimes a target for vandals and if located close to the driveway, it can make entering and exiting difficult. 
• Temperature: An underground tank is better suited for intense temperatures, particularly cold climates because the earth keeps them warm. 
• Floating Issues: If the hole for the underground propane tank fills with water, the tank will float up. This can be minimized by placing a concrete slab above the tank. 
• Upkeep: Above ground propane tanks offer easy maintenance and an underground propane tank needs to be inspected for the anti-corrosion component and tested to assure it doesn’t have any functioning problems. 

What kind of pipe is used for propane underground?

Black steel is the most common with brass, copper, and galvanized steel following by what is best suited or required for the area. Check with your local jurisdiction for any regulations they may have for underground propane tank installation. The propane tank service you choose to work with will be able to assist. 

Can underground propane tanks explode?

Propane tanks do not explode, implode, or rupture, above ground or underground. They do not come apart either. It is almost impossible to make a propane tank explode, the task of trying would be a extremely difficult. As long as proper operation and precautions are performed, an above ground or underground propane tank will last and work without any issues. 

How far should a propane tank be from a house?

Ten feet is the minimum distance for a propane tank to be placed from a building and ten feet is the minimum distance a tank must be placed from a property line. Multiple tanks must be three feet apart with a restriction clearance of 25 feet for increases. 

How long will an underground propane tank last?

Underground propane tank is environmentally friendly and will up to forty years when properly protected against corrosion and rust. Should an underground propane tank have a leak, very unlikely that will happen, the gas is non-toxic and won’t pollute the soil or underground water. 

Propane tank storage for a business, farm, or individual should be outside in an area that is not directly in the sun, off the ground, and is well ventilated. You want to choose an adequate storage location that will ensure safety while keeping it useable. 

How do you store propane tanks?

Propane storage tanks should be kept upright on a dry, solid, surface. Suggest surface would cinder blogs or wood. They can get wet as long as they are off the ground to prevent rust. A rusted propane tank should be properly disposed of and not used. Make sure the valve on each propane tank is closed so that gas doesn’t leak. Never store in an attic, garage, or anywhere that can get hot.

There is no special method for propane tank storage in the winter. Freezing temperatures do not affect the tank or any propane gas inside the tank. They should still be kept away from the house or nearby house, at least 10 feet away, and protected from the weather; a plastic tarp will suffice and off the ground as described earlier. Propane gas sinks to the lowest level of air, so any propane tank storage must be above the grade of the yard in case of any gas leak. 

How dangerous are propane tanks?

Propane gas is an affordable and efficient method for cooking, heating homes, operating water heaters, and even generating electricity. It must be handled properly to keep it safe, so a new propane grill owner should study the recommended best practices. 

Always be cautious when handling the propane tanks, the fuel lines, and the appliances and generators that use propane. With the use of recommended best practices and respect the need to ensure safety, especially with propane tank storage, propane gas is a save and very versatile fuel.

Is it better to store a propane tank full or empty?

Propane tank storage can be empty tanks or full tanks, either one is acceptable. The caution is how and where it is store. The only time a propane storage tank should be indoors is when it is completely empty. Never, NEVER store a propane tank with any amount of propane inside a home or any type of structure. Indoor propane tank storage can cause the temperature inside the tank to heat up quickly, a dangerous scenario.  

How long can you store a full propane tank?

Diesel, gasoline, and other fuels will degrade as they age, so, if you don’t use them, you lose them. Propane gas however has an indefinite life when kept in a good tank and proper propane tank storage is practiced. 

A quality propane tank will last thirty years and with truly little possibility of anything going wrong, this makes propane a must have for emergency stand-by use.  Propane tanks are available in the following materials: 

• Galvanized Steel – subjected to rust if stored in dampness
• Aluminum – does not rust
• Composite Material aka carbon fiber – does not rust

The rubber hose and valve on a propane storage tank is the weakest point of a tank because rubber will degrade, and the valve may begin leaking. Propane gas will not degrade or go bad, it will simply leak if the rubber hose or valve become weak. 

Can you store a propane tank in the garage?

No!  Propane tank storage should not be in an attic, basement, garage, or shed. It should nt be stored inside at all unless the tank is 100% empty. It must be stored where the tank is kept off the ground and the area should be well-ventilated, outdoors only. Never leave a propane tank, empty or full, in your car. When transporting to exchange an empty for a full tank, be sure to remove the tank from your car immediately.