As temperatures start to drop, you'll need to start running the heat in your home more often. When your home relies on a propane tank for heating and cooking, it's important to make sure your tank is ready for the cooler temperatures ahead. Routine seasonal maintenance will help ensure the tank is fully functional and significantly reduces the chance of issues that can temporarily leave you without heat. Below are tips to prepare your tank for the colder seasons. 

How to Get Your Propane Tank Ready for Fall

1. Check for Leaks

If your tank is above ground, check it and the connecting gas lines for leaks before you need propane to heat your home. Create a soapy water mixture using liquid dish detergent and spray it on the tank and lines. If there is a leak requiring professional repairs, bubbles will appear. Always use liquid detergent for this check since it produces the most bubbles. It’s also a good idea to look for tank rust, as rust can eventually eat through the metal to cause natural gas leaks. 

2. Get the Tank Refilled

Request refill services after getting any leaks fixed, so your propane tank is ready to warm your home this winter. You might also want to create a propane delivery schedule with a local supplier so that you never run out of natural gas during the season. The earlier you have the tank refilled, the lower the cost will be since prices rise in reaction to increased demand during winter. 

3. Check the Base

Make sure the tank is still on level ground, meaning its concrete block and the soil underneath have not shifted excessively. A tank that tips over because it is on unstable ground can start leaking. If a leaking tank is near any type of spark, such as from lighting a cigarette or burning leaves, it could start a fire resulting in serious injuries and property damage. 

Inspect the condition of the concrete block and how compact the surrounding soil is. If you notice concrete flaking or chipping, the block has started deteriorating and will become unstable over time without a replacement. You might also need to add more soil to stabilize the tank.

4. Maintain a Clear Path to the Tank

Remove any potential obstructions to the tank for the delivery team, such as lawn furniture and equipment and outdoor children’s toys. Maintain a clear tank route during the winter months as well since snow and ice can cause slips and falls that could injure delivery team members and prevent efficient refills. Keep a shovel handy to remove snow and ice as necessary. 

For timely propane tank fuel deliveries this fall and winter, rely on Murphy’s Gas Co. Inc. The family-owned delivery company in Connersville, IN, has served the surrounding 100-mile radius since 1947, combining outstanding customer service with low fuel rates. Call (800) 284-9585 today to request delivery services, or visit the website for a complete service list.