Is Your Propane Tank Ready for Action?
The summer is over, Labor Day is over, and the holiday season is upon us, as are the winter months. It is getting to the time of year when we’ll need heat for our homes, even here in the Weatherford, Texas area. And to make sure you’re not caught on a cold night without heat, it is time for propane tank inspection and repairs if needed too!
Is a propane tank inspection necessary?
Yes, the DOT (Department of Transportation), a federal agency, is responsible for overseeing that the federal laws and restrictions are followed by every propane distributor and retail outlet. This includes propane tank inspection and repairs as well as getting each tank recertified.
What is the frequency required for propane tank inspection?
Repairs for faulty propane tanks must be repaired and retested every ten years in order for the propane tank to be recertified. This federal law was established in 2017, along with the following updated rules:
- Initial requalification every ten years starting from the original manufacture date.
- The volumetric expansion must be tested for Requalification every ten years.
- Proof pressure testing is required for requalification every ten years.
What is included in a propane tank inspection?
This must be done by a propane gas distributor or retailer that is certified and licensed. They will perform leak test checks on the propane tanks, lines, joints, and connections. If any leaks are detected, the tank and any components or parts are replaced.
What is done with a defective propane tank?
If a propane tank is damaged, punctured, rusted, or otherwise deemed by a professional to be unusable, it may be recycled. However, this must be done by a certified propane facility because of the possibility of propane or residue of propane remaining in the tank.
Do propane tanks ever go bad?
A propane tank with a capacity of 100 pounds or less is tagged to expire in 12 years from the date of manufacturer. At the 12-year mark, the propane tank should be exchanged for a new tank, then a professional propane tank and inspection should be done by a certified propane distributor or retailer.
How do you know if a propane tank is bad?
When a propane tank exhibits any of the following four things, it is time to have a professional propane tank and inspection performed:
- Propane Gas Odor
The you can smell propane gas coming from the tank, or inside your home, evacuate the premises, call 911, and then the propane gas company. The smell of propane is similar to rotten eggs.
- The Pilot Light
If the pilot light won’t stay lit for the heating system or any of the appliances, it may be the appliance. But if none of the pilot lights are staying lit, you should have a professional propane tank inspection and repair or replacement done.
- The Burner Flames
A flame should be blue, but if the flames on the pilot light or flames are orange or yellow, it is recommended to get your propane tank inspected and repairs may be needed, or even a replacement.
- Rusty Tank
If your propane tank has extensive rust in large patches, it is time to have it replaced.
How can you check a propane tank?
Most propane tanks used for home use have a gauge on top. Simply reading the gauge will tell you the amount of gas. If your propane tank doesn’t have a gauge or the gauge doesn’t appear to be working, do the “water and hand” test:
- Pour warm water over the propane tank.
- Run your hand over the tank side.
When you have reached the level of propane in the tank, the exterior of the tank’s temperature will feel cool.
How do you pressure test a propane tank?
You should be able to contact your propane retailer to schedule a free propane inspection and repairs if needed, as well as a pressure test. If you want to do your own pressure testing, follow these steps:
- Purchase a pressure gauge device that is installed between the initial regulator and the shutoff valve.
- Release full tank pressure, allowing enough gas to pass through to the gauge until you get a reading of 0 psi.
- Close the shut-off valve, and wait 3 minutes, watching for any decrease or increase in the pressure. If you see an increase, contact your propane pressure dealer to come perform a propane inspection and repair.
In Conclusion
If you have any concerns with a propane tank, err on the side of caution. If you’re renting your propane tank, propane tank inspection and repairs should be included in the rental agreement. If you own your propane tank, you will probably need to pay for a professional propane tank inspection and repairs, but it will be much less expensive than the loss of lives and home. Want to get in touch with us for propane tank inspection and repair in Granbury, TX? If so, call us now at 817-341-7240!