Many homes have gas grills that use propane.Since propane is very dangerous, it needs to be stored outdoors.You can keep your tank in working condition by using the proper storage techniques.Make sure your tank doesn't get damaged before you store it.
Step 1: Don't put your tank in a shed.
It would be dangerous if gas were to leak.A terrible accident could be caused by the spark of starting a vehicle or lawnmower.If you live in a snowy area, mark the location of your tank so you can easily find it if it gets buried.In order to minimize rust and tank damage, the tank should be stored under a waterproof cover, inside a tank box, or under an open-air cover.
Step 2: Store the tank outdoors.
The area should be flat so the tank doesn't tip over or roll away.Consider using one of the lower shelves on the outdoor shelving unit.The propane vapor must be in contact with the over-pressure vent to keep the tank upright.The propane tank should not be in an enclosed space.The area could be dangerous because of a gas leak.
Step 3: In cold months, keep your tank above 40 F.
The pressure in your tank will decrease as the temperature drops.The propane tank needs to be in a sunlit area to warm up.See below for warmer months.The pressure shouldn't drop too low if you keep your tank full.If you want to insulate your propane tank, don't cover it.This can lower the pressure by blocking the sun.Don't use an electrical device to warm up your tank.
Step 4: Do not keep your tank in temperatures over 120 F.
The pressure inside your tank increases with the temperature.Don't leave your tank out in the sun.Try to find an area with a lot of shade.To avoid tank damage, keep your tank out of the rain.The pressure in the air will leak out.The tank must remain upright to work properly and not leak liquid propane.Excess pressure doesn't light if there are no sources of ignition near the tank.
Step 5: The tank should be placed 10 feet away from the materials.
Open flames or any electrical device are included.Don't store any extra tanks close to your grill.You don't want other tanks nearby to ignite if one of them ignites.
Step 6: Use a milk crate to hold the propane tank.
The valve does not get damaged if the tank is upright.A milk crate should hold a tank that is used for gas grills.Home and garden stores and online sell special platforms to hold propane tanks.If your tank doesn't fit inside of a milk crate, use a platform.If you want to build a barricade around the tank, make sure to leave the valve and handles exposed.
Step 7: Don't let your tank in your home.
Don't store or use your tank in the home.There are vent grates near your propane tank.Propane gas will sink closer to the ground if it is heavier than air.In case of a leak, you don't want to put tanks in an area where they can easily enter your home and cause an explosion.They could pull the gas into your home if you store your propane tank near a heat vent.Call your local officials if you see a propane leak in your home.
Step 8: Attach your tank to the grill.
All grill valves should be turned off when the valve is on top of your tank.A grill cover protects it from the elements.You can use the grill at any time of the year.If you keep your grill in a shed or garage, you should remove the tank and leave it outside.
Step 9: When the tank isn't in use, close the valve.
The valve needs to be turned clockwise until it is tight.This helps keep gas out of the tank.If you smell something similar to rotten eggs or a skunk's spray, make sure the valve on your propane tank is turned off.If there is still evidence of a leak, it is a good idea to have the tank looked at by a professional.If the leak is not obvious when the valve is on, you should check for leaks at the line connection to the tank or along the length of the flexible line.If the connection to the tank cannot be sealed, replace it.
Step 10: To find rust, remove shrink-wrapped plastic labels.
Cut the plastic around the tank with scissors.Water can get trapped underneath the sleeve and cause rust.The tank is more prone to damage from Rust damage.You should save the label since it has important graphics and handling instructions.
Step 11: The tank should be inspected for dents or peeling paint.
The integrity of the propane tank could be ruined by external damage.You should replace your propane tank if you find signs of rust, dents, or peeling paint.Do not fill a tank that has been damaged.
Step 12: You should have any tank over 10 years inspected by a professional.
An expired propane tank needs to be checked to make sure it's still safe to use.It may have internal wear and tear even if there isn't any damage.Your tank should be checked every 5 years after the initial inspection.The inspector should change the stamp on the tank.