Propane tanks are essential for many home activities in Missouri, from grilling in your backyard to heating your home during chilly seasons. Given their significant role, it is crucial to store them properly to ensure safety and maintain their functionality. With many households relying on propane tanks, knowing the best practices for their storage can prevent accidents and prolong the tank's lifespan.

1. Choose the Right Outdoor Location

Always store your local propane tank outdoors in a well-ventilated area. We recommend that in Missouri, where humidity levels can be high, it’s even more important to ensure proper ventilation. Storing the tank indoors, such as in a basement or garage, can be hazardous due to the lack of sufficient airflow. Propane is highly flammable, and even a minor leak in an enclosed space can lead to dangerous situations. Positioning the tank upright is crucial to prevent potential leaks and ensure the pressure relief valve functions correctly. 

2. Regularly Inspect and Maintain Your Tank

Regular inspection and maintenance are vital for ensuring the safety and longevity of your local propane tank. Use a soap solution to check for leaks by applying it to the connection points and watching for bubbles. This simple method helps identify potential issues before they become serious hazards. According to the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, 47 million households use propane to fuel an outdoor gas grill. This statistic highlights the importance of safe storage, especially considering the widespread use of propane tanks for grilling purposes. During the grilling season, ensure the propane tank is stationed away from open flames and heat sources when not in use. 

3. Protect Your Tank From the Elements

Using a tank cover can protect your local propane tank from weather elements, minimizing wear and tear and extending its life. Missouri experiences a range of weather, from hot summers to cold winters, so it's essential to safeguard your tank against the elements. Store the tank on a flat, non-flammable surface, such as concrete, to prevent potential hazards. If you’re storing the tank for an extended time, ensure it is placed away from open flames and heat sources.

Proper storage of your propane tank is vital to ensuring household safety and efficient use of the gas. By following these three tips—choosing the right outdoor location, regularly inspecting and maintaining your tank, and protecting it from the elements—you can prevent accidents and prolong its usability. For reliable propane services and expert advice on propane tank maintenance, contact Mountain Country Propane today. We are here to ensure you safely enjoy all the advantages that propane has to offer in the heart of Missouri!