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How to prepare your propane tank for winter
We’re entering the period of Big Nor’easters, Alberta Clippers and multiple atmospheric rivers in the Pacific Northwest. So naturally, our customers are starting to ask us how to protect their propane…
in Summer Outdoor living becomes more fun when you add propane to the mix. This could mean everything from propane grills and pool heaters to propane outdoor fireplaces and lighting. Find out more about the many ways propane fuels your home.
Without question, propane is one of the safest fuels you can use both in and around your home. But you can make a safe fuel even safer by always following guidelines for proper use. Let’s begin by focusing on issues involving your aboveground home propane tank, including questions about storing propane tanks in hot weather and propane tanks in the heat.
First, if Pinnacle Propane has installed your aboveground tank on your property, you can rest easy. We’ve ensured that it is located on flat ground with plenty of free space around it, clear of anything that could be combustible. We’ve also installed it at a safe distance from your home — at least 10 feet. If possible, we’ve also located your tank in an area that provides shade as a guard against constant direct sunlight.
If you’re concerned about your tank getting overheated on a blazing hot day, it’s perfectly fine to cool it down by spraying the exterior of your tank with water from a garden hose.
Well, propane’s evaporation process does speed up in hot weather, but don’t worry. You’re not losing propane volume. The conversion of propane from a liquid into its gaseous form just happens quicker in hot weather. To ensure safe and efficient operation, propane companies follow the 80/20 rule with all propane tanks. This means we only fill your tank to 80% capacity to allow sufficient room for the propane to expand from liquid to gas without the risk of the tank becoming over-pressurized.
If you want to spruce up the look of your tank with a fresh coat of paint, always choose a light color because this will reflect sunlight instead of absorbing it, as dark colors will do.
In terms of other tank maintenance, if you own your bulk propane tank, you should arrange regular inspections to ensure your tank’s integrity. If you lease your tank from Pinnacle Propane, however, we’ll handle this for you at no extra cost.
We also recommend you stay aware of your typical summer propane usage to avoid running out of fuel. You should always schedule timely refills to prevent any propane shortages.
These are important safety tips you should follow year-round.
Watch a video about handling and transporting small cylinders.
If you think you smell propane in your home, camper, RV or the area around any gas equipment, or if a gas detector alarm signals the presence of propane, you should IMMEDIATELY follow these suggestions:
Have more questions about propane safety? Please reach out to your friends at Pinnacle Propane at any time. You can also read more of our propane safety tips.[Link to: https://www.pinnaclepropane.com/safety-information]
Pinnacle Propane is a propane supplier you can always count on. We offer dependable and flexible delivery options to meet your needs. Please contact us today to learn how we can always ensure you have plenty of propane on hand.
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