How to Store Propane Tanks Properly

When it comes to organizing your space, all your belongings need a home. For instance, your clothes belong in the closet, your camping gear goes on the shelf in the garage, and your gardening tools live in the shed. 

 

But it’s not always easy finding the perfect home for every item. Take your propane tanks, for example. Whether you have extra propane tanks on hand to fuel your gas grill or fireplace, you need to find a safe storage space for them when they’re not in use. 

 

So, where is the safest place to store propane tanks? Allow us to help you. Our guide on how to store propane tanks provides you with the tips and tricks you need to find your tanks a good home.

 

Why Is Proper Propane Tank Storage Important? 

When it comes to storing propane tanks, it’s important to realize that propane is explosive—a tank can explode if stored near any kind of flame. What’s more, propane tanks are filled with gas. If your tank has a leak and you breathe it in, the propane could cause major health issues like hypoxia and even carbon monoxide poisoning. 

 

These dangerous elements make it crucial to safely store your propane tanks—by doing so, you’re protecting yourself and others! 

 

Tip #1: Get a Professional Inspection

Before figuring out how to store propane tanks, it’s a good idea to get your tank inspected. This is especially important if your propane tank is between five and 10 years old because you’ll likely need a professional to requalify it. 

 

Even if your propane tank looks like it’s in good condition, it might have a problem not visible to the naked eye. A professional will search for leaks, assess the system, detect issues, and determine if your tank is overfilled. Getting your tank inspected will give you more peace of mind when it comes time to store it. 

 

Tip #2: Don’t Store Your Propane Tanks Inside
Of all the tips on our list, this is perhaps the most important one.

 

As we previously mentioned, propane tanks can leak gas or even explode. What’s more, propane tanks are designed to release pressure to keep the tank from overpressuring, so small amounts of gas do leak into the air. You could wind up breathing this gas in if you don’t properly store the tanks. 

 

The safest place to store them is outside, away from your home, in a well-ventilated area. In some cities, it’s even illegal to completely enclose a tank or place a roof over it., so avoid placing your tanks in your garage, basement, attic, or even shed; instead, find a spot outside that’s not enclosed in any way. 

 

Tip #3: Avoid Direct Sunlight

Now that you know that outside is the best place to store propane tanks, what else do you need to keep in mind? 

 

For starters, you’ll want to keep the tanks away from direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can heat up the tank, increasing the pressure inside. The same thing can happen when storing propane tanks in hot weather, as rising temperatures increase the gas pressure. If the temperatures exceed 120 degrees F, the tank could potentially rupture. And a ruptured gas tank (and the damage it can cause) is the last thing you want on your hands. 

 

To avoid this, store propane tanks in a cool, shady place. If outside temperatures start to rise, you can always spray your tanks with a garden hose to help cool them down and lower the pressure inside. 

 

Tip #4: Don’t Store Propane in Extremely Low Temperatures

Low temperatures are no match for your propane tanks either. Cold weather can cause the gas to shrink and the tank to decrease in pressure. 

 

So, where should you store propane tanks in winter? While we still recommend keeping them outside, don’t let snow or ice gather on top of them. You might even consider getting an insulated cover designed specifically for propane tanks. That said, never use hot water or any kind of heater to warm up your tank, as this could cause more harm than good. 

 

Tip #5: Find a Dry Area for Storage

Exposure to moisture can cause the metal on your propane tank to rust—and you certainly don’t want to use a propane tank that is rusty or compromised in any way. To prevent rust, keep your propane tank in a dry location away from wet or damp surfaces, including grass and mud. 

 

Tip #6: Place Tanks in An Upright Position 

Don’t store your tanks on their sides or upside down. Instead, store them vertically in an upright position, which ensures the relief valve communicates with vapor space and properly monitors the pressure. 

 

Also, when transporting your propane tanks, be sure to keep them upright. Rolling around can shift the placement of the relief valve to the bottom, interfering with the inside pressure. 

 

Tip #7: Keep Propane Tanks Away From Open Flames

Because propane tanks are combustible, you’ll want to keep them far away (at least 10 feet) from open flames, heat sources, and spark-producing tools. For example, don’t store your backup tank near your gas grill, and certainly don’t keep it near an outdoor fire pit. 

 

Tip #8: Don’t Store Them in a Storage Unit

While we’re big fans of storage units, they aren’t the place for your propane tanks. It’s not just unsafe—many storage facilities actually prohibit it. Before placing anything in your storage unit, check out what items you can and cannot store at your preferred facility. 

 

Propane Tank Storage FAQs

If you still have propane tank storage questions, find your answers below! 

 

What is requalification? Requalification refers to the date the propane tank manufacturer recommends that you retest the tank to ensure it’s still in good condition. You can think of it as something similar to an expiration date. A professional can analyze your tank and decide whether it needs replacing before you place it in storage. 

 

What temperature range is best for storing propane tanks? It’s best to avoid temperatures that exceed 120 degrees F or dip below around -40 degrees F. 

 

What happens if my propane tanks get rained on? Occasional rain won’t harm your propane tanks, but if they experience prolonged exposure to moisture, the water could rust the metal. After a rainstorm, dry off your tanks or consider placing a tarp over them to prevent rust or corrosion. 

 

Can I store my propane tank in my storage unit? No. It’s best to store your propane tanks outside in a well-ventilated area. Many storage facilities will have prohibited items lists that include propane tanks. Ask your storage facility for more information. 

 

Is it OK to leave my propane tanks outside during the summer? Yes, as long your propane tanks aren’t exposed to direct sunlight or temperatures above 120 degrees F, your tanks should be fine staying outside all year round. 

 

Can I store full propane tanks? Yes, you can store full propane tanks, but make sure they are not overfilled. A professional can help determine how much propane you have left in your tanks. 

 

Learn More About Stor-It Today

Stor-It has your back when it comes to all things storage. We offer all the best advice, whether you’re placing your belongings in a storage unit during your home renovation or looking for moving and packing tips.

 

We’re the oldest and largest storage facility in the Gem State, with more than 16 locations across the Treasure Valley. We offer a wide range of storage units in different sizes with climate-controlled options, in addition to our indoor and outdoor parking. Turn to us for the best storage solutions in Idaho!