Propane fuel plays a number of important roles in the home. It is used to power barbeques and other gas grills, and for general heat and hot water. If you rely on propane only for seasonal use, there are a number of things to consider when it comes to storage. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe and prevent damage to your propane tank.
Smaller, portable propane tanks should never be stored indoors. To prepare a tank for winter, shut off the main valve and disconnect it from your grill’s gas line. Keep it on a flat, stable surface, away from open flames, where it will be undisturbed. Also, avoid damp areas where moisture can build up and cause premature rusting.
Portable propane tanks are equipped with a relief valve that activates when internal pressure builds up. This safety feature is especially important in the winter months when temperatures drop. Proper storage of a propane tank should ensure liquid propane is not in contact with the relief valve. This is done by keeping it stored upright at all times, particularly if the tank is more than half full.
The best time to put your tank into storage will depend on how frequently you use it. Many homeowners choose to set a seasonal reminder for themselves to ensure it doesn’t get forgotten.
Most larger propane tanks used to heat the home are stationary and don’t need to be moved into storage when not in use. However, the change in season is a good time to schedule regular maintenance for your tank. This will involve checking the safety controls and performing a thorough visual inspection for any signs of rust or damage. Often, these checks can be performed along with general HVAC maintenance for your furnace and burner systems.
Larger propane tanks, like their smaller counterparts, feature a pressure relief valve that prevents dangerous buildup of propane gas. It is dangerous — and illegal — to fill a propane tank beyond 80% of its capacity as this will jeopardize the functioning of this valve. This is especially important when storing your tank for an extended period of time.
Foster Fuels provides seasonal maintenance and refueling for home propane tanks in Virginia and beyond. To learn more about how to safely store a propane tank when not in use, fill out our contact form or give us a call at 800-344-6457 and speak with a representative directly.
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I like how you recommended getting maintenance on your propane tank after the seasons have changed. My dad left his propane tank out during the winter and didn't have it checked in the summer. He ended up having a leak in his tank. Next year, he should get it looked out before he tries to use it this time.
Thanks for the tip about having the propane tank checked at the same time that you have HVAC maintenance done. I want to convert from oil to gas, but I also want to make sure that the system gets taken care of. If I schedule the tank maintenance at the same time as my other check-up services, I shouldn't have to worry about too many problems.
I'm considering getting some large fuel tanks for my home and think that it's important to store them correctly. It makes sense that since they're stationary, you don't need to move them during harsh weather but it's important to keep them maintained. Thanks for the post; these things could be very helpful because I'd like to ensure there aren't any major issues with either the diesel or the propane ones because it'd be bad to find out the fuel is rotten or all gone due to a minor leak when I need it most.
Thanks for detailing as to where to best store one's propane. I'd be sure to remember to keep portable propane tanks on a flat, stable surface, away from open flames, where it will be undisturbed. As for home propane tanks, I'd be sure to have regular maintenance for it. Earlier, I was wondering whether to get one or not. Now, I've decided that it ain't that hard to maintain so I'll get at least one. We should be ready for the cold that's incoming.
It's good to know that you don't need to move them when you're not using them. My husband and I are wanting to get a propane tank for our home in the next couple of weeks, and we were wondering how we should store it. I appreciate the tips on how you should store your propane tank! https://www.huntingramgas.com/main_officehome_delivery.html