Can I Paint My Propane Tank?

Be sure you know the rules before you get crafty with your tank

Admiral Propane is known throughout the tri-cities area for its tan propane tank. We paint them tan because it’s a light color that blends well with most landscaping, and it’s a lot more attractive than stark white, or industrial-looking silver paint.

Still, lots of customers ask us if they can paint their propane tank — especially this time of year, when people are sprucing up their outdoor spaces. Like the answer to most questions, it depends. The short answer is, yes, you can paint your tank as long as it’s yours.

If you lease your tank, it belongs to whoever you’re leasing it from. Of course, if you lease your tank, you probably don’t need to paint it: One of the benefits of leasing a tank from a propane provider like Admiral, is that your tank is our responsibility. Maintenance and care –and if needed, repair—is on us. That’s why those tan tanks always look great.

If you own your tank—whether you bought it from Admiral, or the previous owner of your home—you can paint it, but there are some rules you need to follow. Here’s what you need to know:

Color Matters

While it’s okay to paint your propane tank, and even get a little creative with designs, you need to be careful about the colors you use. The National Fire Protection Association requires that you only use light, heat-reflective colors. That’s because when liquid propane (the propane in your tank is a liquid until it flows into the gas lines in your home) gets warm, it expands. Dark colors attract heat, while light colors reflect it away. Think about how hot black asphalt gets in the summer, while white concrete sidewalks are only warm under bare feet.

If the propane in your tank gets too warm and expands enough, the safety valve will release. While this prevents the tank from exploding, it’s similar to a gas leak, and the escaping gas could ignite.

Types of Paint

Ask at your local hardware store if they carry paint specifically made for use on propane tanks. The staff there should be able to guide you to paints and colors that are safe to use. Paint that inhibits rust is a smart choice for your propane tank, as well as light colors.

You can use spray paint or liquid paint applied with a brush or roller, whichever you are most comfortable using.

Prep for Success

For the best results, follow the same basic prepping steps that you would before starting any other paint project. First, use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove any rust and peeling or flaking paint. Then wash the surface with soap and water to remove grease and dirt. Be sure the surface is clean and dry before you paint.

Use painter’s tape to protect the gauge, valves and data tag. You want to avoid getting paint on these areas. And you’re ready to paint!

The Low-Maintenance Option

If you’re not a DIY-er, or just don’t want to have to worry about keeping your propane storage tank looking spiffy, you can lease your tank from Admiral. Our pros make it easy—we’ll talk to you about your home and your appliances and make sure you have the right size tank for your needs. And, we’ll make sure it’s installed safely and keep it in good shape so you don’t have to. We offer a great range of convenient options for our propane customers, to keep your to-do list short. Ask about automatic delivery service and payment options.

Contact us for more information today.