Propane is commonly used for gas grills and many families own it. Since propane is a highly flammable gas, the tank must be stored safely outdoors. By applying some proper storage techniques, you can keep your propane tank in good condition for years to come. Just make sure the tank isn't damaged before you store it!
Step
Method 1 of 2: Keeping the Tank Safe
Step 1. Do not leave the propane tank indoors or in storage
If the tank leaks, the gas will contaminate the area and endanger it. Even a spark when starting the vehicle can burn the leaking propane.
If you live in a snowy area, mark the location of the tank in case it is buried so that it is easy to find and clear the snow
Step 2. Store the tank in a dry and well-ventilated outdoor area
Also make sure the area is flat so the tank doesn't tip over or roll over, and is mostly shaded. Consider using one of the bottom shelving or outdoor shelving units that mount tightly to the wall.
Propane tanks must not be in an enclosed space. Gas can leak and make the area dangerous
Step 3. Store the tank at temperatures above -40 degrees Celsius in colder months
When the temperature decreases, the tank pressure will decrease. Make sure the propane tank is in a sunny spot so it can warm up every day.
- Keep the tank full so the pressure is not too low.
- Do not cover the propane tank to insulate it. This step only blocks the sun's rays and further lowers the tank pressure.
- Do not use heaters or electronic devices to warm the tank.
Step 4. Avoid storing the tank at temperatures above 50 degrees Celsius
When the temperature increases, the pressure inside also increases. Do not leave the tank in the sun during the hot months. Try to find a shady place to store the tank.
The propane tank has a relief valve which will help reduce the pressure if the temperature is persistently high. The pressure deposits will leak and leak into the air. Make sure there are no ignition sources near the tank so this excess pressure doesn't burn out
Step 5. Place the tank 3 meters away from flammable objects
These items include open flames or any electronic device. Do not store your extra tanks next to each other or near grills. If one tank catches fire, don't let the tank next to it catch fire.
Step 6. Use a bottle basket (milk crate) to hold the tank upright
By keeping the tank upright, the valve is kept undamaged and the gas does not leak. A standard sized bottle basket can hold a 90 kg tank used for gas grills.
- There are also special platforms for holding tanks that are sold at hardware stores or the internet. Use this platform if the tank can fit in the bottle basket.
- Build a barricade around the tank with cinder blocks or bricks, but make sure the valves and handles are not blocked.
Step 7. Keep the tank away from air ducts and windows
Look for air ducts around the propane tank. Propane gas is heavier than air so it will fall to the ground and into the air ducts or basement windows. If there is a leak, do not put the tank where it can enter the house easily and pollute the air.
- Never store propane tanks near air conditioners, radiators, or heating vents as they can channel gas into the home.
- If propane leaks in your home, evacuate the area immediately and contact the authorities.
Step 8. Attach the tank to the grill for easy storage
Turn the valve at the top of the tank to turn it off. Use a grill cover to protect it from the elements and the sun. That way, you can easily use the grill any time.
If you store your grill in a shed or garage, remove the propane tank and leave it outside
Method 2 of 2: Checking the Tank Quality
Step 1. Make sure the tank valve is closed when not in use
Turn the tank valve clockwise until it is tight to prevent gas from leaking out of the tank.
If you smell rotten eggs or skunk farts, it's possible propane gas is leaking from the tank
Step 2. Remove the label to look for rust
Use scissors to cut the plastic that covers the tank. Water can get trapped behind the arms and cause rust. Damage due to rust can degrade the condition of the tank making it more susceptible to damage.
Save the label as it contains pictures and instructions for handling the gas tank, which will be needed later
Step 3. Check for scuffs or peeling paint on the tank
Any external damage can damage the overall integrity of the propane tank. If you find rust, scuffs, or peeling paint, replace the tank before storing.
Do not fill tanks that have been damaged or weathered
Step 4. Use a professional to inspect tanks that are over 10 years old
Propane tanks should be reassessed and checked for safety when they are over 10 years old. Even if it doesn't appear to be damaged, the inside could wear out or crack.
After the initial inspection, inspect the tank every five years
Warning
- Liquid propane is highly flammable and is under extreme pressure when stored in tanks. Keep it away from any heat source so it doesn't explode or catch fire.
- Propane smells like rotten eggs or skunk gas. If you smell it, don't light anything that could start a fire and leave the area immediately.
