How To Properly Care For Your Propane Gas Tank
When you have a propane gas tank, it is important to make sure that you are doing all that you can to ensure that it is properly cared for. This will ensure that everyone will remain safe and that the tank will last for a long time. To do that, you will simply need to use the following advice:
Never Keep It On Its Side
Even during transport, it is vital that you are keeping the propane tank in the upright position. If you have to, wedge some wood or cement blocks around it so it will stay in the upright position. You do not want it to start tipping or rolling around as you transport it to the location where you will exchange it or have it refilled.
Keep It Out Of The Rain
It is best to keep the propane tank covered from the rain and snow. Direct contact with a lot of moisture, even over a short amount of time, can cause pitting in the metal of the tank. When this happens, you will find that it will not be much longer before rust begins to develop. Once the rust starts to form on the propane tank, it is now garbage. You need to empty out the propane and recycle the metal. This is because it is no longer safe to use, as you just never know when the rust is going to eat all the way through the metal, creating a hole in the tank.
Turn The Valve To The Off Position
Even if the propane is not connected to anything that is running or being used at the moment, you need to make sure that the valve is turned to the off position. This will ensure that there is no propane gas leak that you will have to worry about. Also, even if the propane tank valve is completely closed, you will always need to store it outside. Never store a propane tank inside of a building. There is simply too much of a risk, as propane is a toxic and explosive fuel.
If you need further assistance with the care of your propane gas tank, you can always talk with a contractor, or a propane fuel expert. The more you know, the safer you and your loved ones will be when it comes to the use of propane gas on or around your property. For more information, contact companies like John Graves Propane of Arizona, Inc.