Propane is a clean-burning and energy-efficient fuel that can provide heat and power to furnaces, ovens, and water heaters. However, it's important to care for the tank properly to reduce safety hazards during winter. Below, you'll learn more about how to prevent problems and protect your residence throughout the colder months. 

4 Winter Safety Tips for Propane Tanks

1. Remove Ice & Snow

Though propane likely won't freeze when temperatures drop below 32 degrees, cold conditions can cause the tank's internal pressure to decrease. When this happens, it may struggle to deliver enough fuel to appliances, fixtures, and heating systems. Ice and snow buildups on the tank can rapidly reduce the interior temperature and pressure. 

Additionally, the weight of frozen precipitation may damage the tank and pipes, potentially resulting in a gas leak. You can prevent service interruptions by using a scraper or brush to remove ice and snow buildups as soon as you notice them.

2. Schedule Automatic Refills

Running out of propane can prevent you from using gas-powered dryers and stoves, which may keep you from completing household tasks. On a more hazardous level, a depleted fuel supply can prevent your fireplace and furnace from operating, leaving indoor areas dangerously cold on winter days. You can keep your household fully operational by setting up automatic propane delivery services in winter. 

3. Keep a Path to the Tank Clear

You'll likely find your propane tank on the side of your home or in your backyard. When your residential propane company arrives to deliver more fuel, it's important that they have easy access to the area. You can prevent trip and fall hazards by shoveling snow, putting away lawn and recreation equipment, or removing fallen tree debris following winter storms.  

4. Never Bring the Tank Indoors

Many homeowners keep smaller propane tanks on hand to provide power to grills and stoves. If you run out of fuel in your home's larger residential tank, you might feel tempted to bring smaller tanks indoors and connect them directly to appliances. 

However, propane emits carbon monoxide (CO) as a byproduct of burning fuel, and this colorless, odorless gas may lead to headaches, confusion, and loss of consciousness. You can prevent CO poisoning by keeping all tanks outdoors where they may remain well-ventilated.

Promote winter safety with propane tank inspections and fuel delivery from Bennett's Gas. They provide automatic propane refills, routine maintenance, and emergency services to clients throughout Taylorsville, KY. Call (502) 477-2234 to set up a schedule for propane delivery and visit the website to learn more about their commercial and residential propane services.