Become an Expert With These Tips for Handling, Storing, and Using Propane Safely!
Propane is a highly flammable gas with an explosive force, due to the pressurized nature of its container. If a leak emerges, propane can be easily ignited and cause a fire, or burn the handler using it. However, propane is a safe and efficient fuel when handled with care, so use the following precautions when handling and storing propane at home!
Proper Storage of Propane Cylinders
Store Your Propane Tank Outside: It is important to store your propane tank outside in a well-ventilated area protected from rain, either with a waterproof cover or an open-air cage with a floor and roof. It is recommended to store propane cylinders at least 20-feet away from your building in case of leaks or fires.
Keep Your Propane Tank Upright and Secure: Always keep your propane tank upright, secure, and on a flat surface. The pressure relief valve, also known as the overpressure valve, is designed to protect your propane tank from rupturing in case excess pressure builds up in the tank. This valve only works effectively when it is in contact with the propane vapor, not the liquid, so the tank must remain upright.
Check for Leaks: Be sure to check your propane tank for leaks on a consistent basis. You can do this by wiping down your tank with a solution of soapy water, and if a leak is present, bubbles will form!
Avoid Extreme Temperatures: In cold months, keep your tank above -40 F, and in warm months, keep your tank below 120 F. As the temperature in your tank drops, the pressure decreases, and as the temperature in you tank increases, the pressure increases, so pay attention to where you are storing your tank in very hot and cold temperatures.
Store Your Tank Away From Vents and Windows: Propane gas has a high risk of going into vents or basement windows, because it is heavier than air and will sink closer to the ground. Keep your tank away from air conditioners or heat vents, as gas can drawn into your home.
Tips for Handling and Using Propane Cylinders
Carrying and Transporting Propane: Transport propane in a vertical position with the valves closed. If you are using a vehicle to transport, keep the tank standing up and secure in the trunk or cargo area of the vehicle, preferably with some form of ventilation.
No Smoking near Propane Containers: Do not smoke while handling, transporting or working near propane, as this poses an obvious fire hazard.
No Metal Tools: Do not use metal tools while changing a propane cylinder.
Keep Your Face Away from Valves: A quick and sudden release of propane liquid from the pressure relief valve can cause serious injury, so be sure to keep your face away from valves on tanks or cylinders.
Empty New Tanks Before Use: When a propane tank is manufactured, air gets into the tank. Air needs to be purged from a new propane tank for two reasons:
Air can cause the odor that is added to propane to fade.
When propane is added to air, two of the three items needed to form a fire are present. All that is needed is a small spark for the tank to explode.
Avoid Painting Propane Containers a Dark Color: Propane cylinders are often painted light or reflective colors to reduce heat absorption from the sun, so do not paint them a dark color as they will likely overheat and could explode due to increased pressure.
Conclusion
We hope this article gave you some insight into the importance of propane safety and how you can become an export in propane usage. For questions about handling, storing, and using propane safely, feel free to give us a call at 662-685-4355 or send us a message on our Coombs Gas contact page at https://www.coombsgas.com/contact.