Once you’ve had your propane tank installed, you don’t need to do much to keep it in good working order. A quality propane tank can last 20 years above ground and 40 years if installed underground. Of course, keeping up with a simple maintenance routine is the key to making your propane tank last as long as possible.
Inspections
While you can probably smell if there’s a serious leak or tell if your heat isn’t functioning properly, there are many problems that require a trained eye to find. Proper propane tank maintenance starts with having a qualified, licensed technician you can call for regular inspections. We recommend scheduling one at least every three years.
Everyday Care
While most propane tank maintenance tasks should be left to the pros, there are things you can do to help.
- Keep an eye on your propane tank. If you have an above ground tank, propane tank maintenance can start with a simple visual check. You’ve probably seen lots of dingy, dirty propane tanks with rust, stains, and chipped paint. A damaged exterior can cause problems for the interior, so contact your propane technician if your tank looks like it needs some freshening up.
- Keep the paint looking fresh. Appearances aren’t everything, but paint does make a big impact. Light colors reflect heat and keep your propane tank from experiencing too much pressure. If the paint is chipping off your propane tank, you should talk to your technician about temporarily emptying the tank so it can be safely repainted.
- Keep the tank area clear of debris. Clearing away weeds, debris, and any other obstructions should be a routine part of propane tank maintenance. This simple task helps streamline refills and prevent fire hazards.