Propane is often used in areas where natural gas is absent, held in pressurized tanks. These tanks can be tapped, enabling the use of the fuel for different purposes like cooking, heating, clothes, etc. Some people see danger in storing a large amount of fuel near their houses, but even natural gas supply can be dangerous. The truth is any kind of fuel is potentially dangerous if the users are not careful in using them. Since in this age, we cannot live without gas supply, we only need to be cautious in our actions. Here are some safety tips in using propane tanks:
Avoid using tanks that show signs of damage. Do not try to repair the propane tanks in case you found that they are indeed damaged. You should bring them instead to their suppliers for repairs or better yet, for disposal.
Use water with soap in checking if the tank or its valve is leaking. Turn the appliance off before opening the valve. Check the labels of your propane tank for any specific instructions for leak detection.
When the tank is not in use, it is best that you turn the valve in the “closed” position.
When using propane tanks with gas grills, never store the tank under the grill. This also applies even if you think that the propane tank is already empty. It is also best that you disconnect the tank from the grill when they are not in use. Of course, you need to turn the valve off when doing this.
Vertical tanks should always be stored in an upright position. It is also advisable to store them outside the house. Still regarding the storage area, the propane tanks should be placed where the temperature does not exceed 125 degrees Fahrenheit.
When you are transporting a propane tank, secure it upright in an area in your vehicle that is well-ventilated. It is advisable that you head directly to the place where the propane tank will be used for safety reasons.
Types of Propane Storage Tanks
Propane is the fuel used in areas where natural gas is not present. It is stored in pressurized tanks in liquid form and vaporized before it is used in the various appliances that need this kind of fuel. Propane storage tanks come in many sizes and types. Some have the propane tank gauge already installed and for others you will need to buy a propane tank sensor. They can be used in different functions and in various settings, such as residential and industrial settings. Here are the different types of propane storage tanks:
Bulk propane storage tanks: these tanks are very large and are often used to store propane supply for a locale or for an industrial company that is in need of great amounts of propane fuel.
Dispenser tanks: this type of propane tank can act as storage but with less capacity that the preceding kind. They can as well refill small propane tanks so they can be used as a business with the right paperwork.
Residential tanks: for our homes, we can use propane storage tanks of different sizes, depending on use of fuel for us. If you merely need propane for cooking, then a smaller tank will do. However, if you also need the fuel for other purposes like heating the fireplace, drying clothes, warming your pool, or even for your outdoor lighting, then you may want to invest on a bigger tank. Residential tanks may either be above-ground or underground.
Gas grill tanks: propane storage tank for such a specific purpose may be very small, such as one pound, as preferred by those who also have portable grills for outdoor use. Bigger varieties, such as 20-pound tanks are also common.
