How to Store a Propane Tank Outside

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Propane is commonly used for gas grills and can be found in many homes. Since propane is a highly flammable gas, it needs to be stored safely outdoors. By using the proper storage techniques, you can keep your tank in working condition for years to come. Just make sure your tank isn't damaged before you store it!

Method 1
Method 1 of 2:

Keeping Your Tank Safe

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  1. If gas were to leak, it would contaminate the area and make it dangerous. Even the spark of starting a vehicle or lawnmower could ignite a propane leak and cause a terrible accident.
    • If you live in a snowy area, mark the location of your tank in case it gets buried so you can easily find it and clear away the snow. Preferably, the tank should be stored under a waterproof cover, inside a tank box sold for that purpose, or under an open-air cover, in order to minimize rust and tank damage.
  2. Make sure that the area is flat so the tank doesn't tip over or roll away ,and the area is mostly shaded. Consider using one of the lower shelves on an outdoor shelving unit mounted to a secure wall. Always store a tank upright, since the over-pressure vent must be in contact with the propane vapor, not the liquid. [1]
    • Keep your propane tank out of enclosed spaces. Gas may leak and could make the area dangerous.
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  3. As the temperature drops, the pressure in your tank will lower. Make sure the propane tank is in a sunlit area so that it can warm up everyday. But see below regarding warmer months!
    • Keep your tank full so the pressure does not drop too low.
    • Don't cover your propane tank to try to insulate it. This only blocks the sun and could lower the pressure more.
    • Never use a heater or electrical device to warm up your tank.
  4. As the temperature rises, the pressure inside your tank rises, too. Don't leave your tank in the sunlight during the hottest months. Try to find an area that has a lot of shade instead. Keep your tank out of the rain, to avoid rusting and tank damage. [2] .
    • Propane tanks have a release valve that will help relieve pressure if temperatures are consistently high. The built-up pressure will leak out and dissipate into the air. To work properly and not leak liquid propane, the tank must remain upright. Make sure there are no sources of ignition near the tank so excess pressure does not light.
  5. This includes open flames or any electrical device. Do not store any extra tanks close together or near your grill. If one tank happens to ignite, you do not want other tanks nearby to ignite as well. [3]
  6. Keeping the tank upright ensures that the valve does not get damaged and gas doesn't leak. A standard-sized milk crate should hold a 20 pounds (9.1 kg) tank that's used for gas grills.
    • Special platforms to hold propane tanks are also sold in home and garden stores or online. Use a platform if your tank does not fit inside of a milk crate.
    • Build a barricade around the tank with cinder blocks or bricks, but make sure to leave the valve and handles exposed.
  7. Never store or use your tank inside the home! Look for exterior vent grates anywhere near your propane tank. Propane gas is heavier than air, so it will sink closer to the ground and may go into vents or basement windows. In case of a leak, you do not want to place tanks in an area where it could easily enter your home and contaminate the air, and which might create an explosive mixture situation.
    • Never store your propane tank near air conditioners, radiators, or heat vents since they could pull the gas into your home.
    • If propane leaks into your home, evacuate the area immediately and call your local officials.
  8. Turn the valve off (on top of your tank), and turn all grill valves to the "off" positions. Use a grill cover to protect it from the elements and direct sunlight. This makes it easier for you to use the grill at any time of the year.
    • If you store your grill in a shed or garage, remove the tank and leave it in a suitable place outside.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 2:

Checking the Quality of Your Tank

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  1. Turn the valve clockwise until it is hand-tight. This helps prevent any possible gas leaks from escaping the tank. [4]
    • If you smell something similar to rotten eggs or a skunk's spray, propane may be leaking from your tank; check the valve to ensure that it is turned off snugly. If there is still evidence of a leak, have the tank examined by a professional to determine whether it needs to be repaired or replaced. If the leak is only evident when the valve is on, check for a leak at the line connection to the tank (be sure the connection is tight) or for leaks along the length of any flexible line (where it may have been mechanically damaged or chewed by a rodent). If a fuel line is damaged or the connection to the tank cannot be properly sealed, replace it.
  2. Use a pair of scissors to cut the plastic wrap-around off of the tank. Water can get trapped underneath the sleeve and cause rust to form. Rust damage can ruin the integrity of the tank, making it more prone to damage. [5]
    • Save the label since it will have important graphics and handling instructions which you may want to consult later on.
  3. Any external damage could ruin the integrity of the propane tank overall. If you find signs of rust, dents, or peeling paint, replace your propane tank before you store it. [6]
    • Do not fill a tank that has been weathered or damaged.
  4. An expired propane tank needs to be re-qualified and should be checked that it's still safe for you to use. Even if there doesn't seem to be any damage, it may have internal wear and tear. [7]
    • After an initial inspection, have your tank checked every 5 years afterward. The inspector should re-stamp the tank with a new expiration date.
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Community Q&A

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  • Question
    Should I fill a propane tank before placing it in storage for 6 months?
    Community Answer
    I wouldn't fill a tank prior to storing because of the expansion and contraction of the gases. It's best to simply leave it empty or half full.
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  • Question
    Why would a propane tank have frost on the outside in 60-degree temps?
    Community Answer
    When a gas is under high pressure, it not only becomes a liquid, it becomes extremely cold. Propane is usually a gas, and it becomes cold when compressed.
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    Not Helpful 75 Helpful 8
  • Question
    Can I store an empty BBQ in a closed up condo?
    Community Answer
    If you are talking about the BBQ appliance itself, yes. If you are including the tank with the appliance, then no. Propane is very flammable and highly explosive to match. I couldn't even begin to imagine the collateral damage to property and life if the cylinder were to leak off in an enclosed condo.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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      Warnings

      • Liquid propane is highly combustible and under extreme pressure when it's stored in the tank. Keep it away from any heat sources so it doesn't ignite or explode.
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        Helpful 2 Not Helpful 1
      • Propane has an unpleasant smell like rotten eggs or a skunk spray. If you smell this, do not operate anything that could ignite or spark and leave the area.
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.ontario.ca/document/safety-guidelines-film-and-television-industry/guideline-no-10-propane-use
      2. ↑ https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/safety_haz/welding/storage.html
      3. ↑ https://portal.311.nyc.gov/article/?kanumber=KA-02476
      4. ↑ https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/safety_haz/welding/storage.html
      5. ↑ https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/sites/phmsa.dot.gov/files/docs/propane_en_v3.pdf
      6. ↑ https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/sites/phmsa.dot.gov/files/docs/propane_en_v3.pdf
      7. ↑ https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/sites/phmsa.dot.gov/files/docs/propane_en_v3.pdf

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To store your propane tank outside, keep it in a dry, well-ventilated outdoor area. In addition to keeping your tank outside, make sure it’s at least 10 feet away from flammable materials, like open flames or electrical devices. If you live in an area that gets cold during the winter months, keep your tank in a sunlit area so it can warm up every day, make sure it's full so the pressure doesn't drop too low, and keep it above negative 40 degrees Fahrenheit. While extreme cold isn’t good for your propane tank, extreme heat is also risky, so avoid keeping your tank in temperatures above 120 degrees Fahrenheit since this could raise the internal pressure. During the warmer months, store your tank in a shady area to keep it cool. To learn how to check the quality of your tank, keep reading!

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