Whether you rely on propane as a heating source for your home or as a way to grill your favorite foods, it’s important to learn how to store propane tanks during the heat of summer. Just like many other gases and hazardous materials, improper storage can cause a devastating accident. Below are three steps to take for storing propane tanks in the hot summer months.

How to Properly Store Your Propane Tanks This Summer

1. Location

Your tank should remain outdoors at all times, unless it has been emptied and cleaned thoroughly. The ideal location to store a propane tank is outdoors in a dry environment and on an even surface with sufficient ventilation. It should also be at a minimum of 10 feet away from any other propane tanks or machines, including grills. However, make sure it doesn’t experience hot temperatures because they could cause the valve to release the gas, which could lead to a fire. Consider building a barricade around it to keep animals and people, particularly kids, from messing with it.

2. Position

The way you store your tank is just as important as where you store it. Once you’ve found an appropriate location for the tank, you must know how to store it. Any propane tanks should be placed upright with the tops secured. To make sure they remain upright, purchase a stabilizer designed specifically for the weight and type of propane tank. These stabilizers are particularly important if you need to transport the tank. No more than four tanks should be simultaneously moved in an enclosed vehicle.

3. Inspection

After you’ve determined where to place your tank and how to secure it, it needs to undergo an inspection. This step minimizes the chances of a disaster, particularly during the heat of summer. It’s recommended to have a professional check the tank for leaks, damage, and propane levels. If the tank is at least 10 years old, it must be requalified by a professional before storage. Bubbles on the tank or a sulfur smell indicate a leak. If you notice either of these, turn off the valve and call the fire department to properly handle the situation.

If you need assistance storing or installing your propane tanks this summer, the team at Dousman LP Gas will help. They’ve been providing residents in Waukesha, WI, and the surrounding areas with propane-related services for over 37 years. They offer timely and reliable propane gas delivery as well as an array of payment plans. Since they’re family-owned and -operated, they value their relationships with customers and want to make sure their needs are met. They’re also proud to be an accredited BBB company with an A+ rating. Give them a call at (262) 965-2679 to learn more about their services.