Many people have propane tanks on their properties that they use for home heating. As colder weather begins to set in, forgetting to refill the supply won’t just leave your family out in the cold. Letting the container run empty can result in severe dangers and significant damage to your home and those living inside of it.

3 Issues Associated With Empty Propane Tanks

1. No Heat

Your home may rely on propane to heat water. Without it, you won't be able to take showers, wash dishes, or otherwise complete daily household tasks that call for hot water. Although Texas winters are pretty mild, if there's an unusual drop below freezing, a lack of home heat could mean burst pipes

2. Tank Damage

When the propane tank isn’t full of fuel, air can seep inside, and moisture can settle on the interior lining. When oxygen and water attach to iron, rust forms. The iron oxide will corrode the metal, causing tiny holes to develop. When this happens, you’ll have no choice but to invest in tank replacement. If gas begins to leak out of the tank, it can heighten the risk of explosions or fires on your property.

3. Environmental Concerns 

When the propane tank is empty and left to rot, any fuel left in the tank could seep into the environment. If gas or other chemicals can flow into the ground, they can contaminate groundwater and result in issues with your water supply. The smell of rust could overpower the propane stench, making it harder to notice a problem. If there’s an open fire near the container or someone drops a lit cigarette by it, there could be an explosion. This can scorch the area around the tank and make it hard for the grass or other plants to grow.

To avoid the dangers that come with an empty propane tank, contact Hill Country Hydro Gas. Serving residents in Blanco and Hays counties in Texas, the company provides fast, reliable propane gas delivery and refill services. If you need a replacement, they also sell above-ground and underground tanks, and they can repair your propane-operated appliances. To schedule a propane refill, call the Blanco office at (830) 833-4550, dial (888) 868-7412 for the Johnson City branch, and (888) 868-9825 for the Wimberley location. Visit the team online today to see how they can help improve your home heating system.