Propane Tank Maintenance for Winter
Propane properly propels America. Americans have access to more than 62.3 million barrels of propane. It is easy to use and store in large propane tanks.
But using a propane tank isn’t always simple. In the winter, its important to develop proactive maintenance strategies so your tank goes the distance.
What should you do to maintain your tank? How can you stay safe around your propane gas tank? How can you avoid stressing your tank?
Answer these questions and you can remain properly fueled throughout the winter.
Make Your Propane Tank Accessible
Maintenance is impossible if you do not know where your tank is. If possible, install your tank on a slab or platform. Keeping it off the ground will make it easier to find after a snowstorm.
You can also install your tank near a pole or flag. But, don’t put anything on the tank itself, as it can fall off or damage the tank during a wind storm.
Once the tank is visible, you need to make the pathway to it clear. Move any trash cans or pieces of lawn equipment out of the way. You should also remove branches and shrubs that can hit someone as they approach your tank.
While you are cleaning the area around your tank, find the propane appliance vents. These vents allow carbon monoxide to escape your house. Clear the vents of all debris, especially leaves and twigs.
Request a Refill When You Need One
You should check how much fuel you have once a week. It is very important that you do this before a snowstorm.
If you have less than half a tank of propane left, you need to ask for a refill right away. Major power outages from weather-related events have increased by 67% since 2000. Even a “minor” snowstorm poses a risk to your power supply.
You can refill your tank yourself, or you can ask a professional to do it. If a professional refills your tank, ask them to inspect it. Allow them to make any repairs that they see, especially to your propane tank cover.
You are not done once your tank is refueled. Start planning propane tank refills by calculating how much fuel you use in a week.
Remove Open Sources of Heat
Many people get concerned that their propane gas tank will freeze. The gas will not freeze, but the tank can stop operating if parts get too cold. You can buy a propane tank heater to prevent this from happening.
However, the bigger threat to your propane tank is heat. An open flame can damage your tank and cause the gas inside to ignite. Never light a fire near your tank. If you have a fire pit, place rocks around the pit and ignite the flames close to the ground.
It is okay to use an electrical device like a cell phone near your tank. But you should not place the device against your tank. Phones can overheat, causing problems.
If the metal on your tank begins to warp, stop using your propane right away. Call a maintenance company and get help.
Avoid Stressing Your Tank
Maintaining your propane gas tank is relatively easy, even during the winter. Your focus should be to avoid stressing your tank. Try using as little fuel as possible so you don’t break anything in it.
Minimize Hot Water
A lot of your propane supply goes toward heating up water. Try to avoid using hot water as much as possible.
Seal Your Home
Installing insulation will keep heat trapped in your home. The more heat you have trapped, the less fuel you have to burn to create heat.
Place window strips around the windows of the rooms you frequent the most. Make sure the strips fit in the window frames and do not have any gaps or holes.
If you have an attic, you can install radiant barriers. Heat can bounce off of reflective foil and travel back into your house. Place the barriers against the ceiling so your attic remains accessible.
Maintain Your Propane Tank the Right Way
Don’t let your propane tank stress you out. By following these suggestions, you will keep your tank properly functioning, keeping your home warm this winter. Custom Truck One Source is happy to support the companies that provide our homes with the propane needed to keep us going. Contact us today for more information about our fueling equipment.
