Propane Storage Solutions

Tips for Long-Term Storage

What do you know about your propane storage tank? If it came with your home, you might not even know how old it is. Does it need maintenance? When does it need to be replaced? How long can you store propane, anyway?

Propane doesn’t degrade or “go bad” like other fuels can. So, in theory, as long as your tank is in good shape, you can use it to store propane indefinitely. In fact, you should avoid letting your propane tank hit empty to avoid damage and potential leaks that result from pressure changes in the lines.

The care of your tank depends on who owns it. If you own your tank, you are responsible for making sure it’s in good shape. That’s why most customers prefer leasing, as their tanks will be maintained and repaired by Admiral Propane’s trained service technicians.

Whether you own or lease, it’s good to know the basics of tank maintenance. Here’s everything you need to know to take good care of your propane tank.

Above-Ground Tanks

The downside of an above-ground tank is that it isn’t exactly pretty. That’s why Admiral’s tanks are all painted an attractive neutral tan color that blends into the environment. But it’s easy to spot any signs of aging on an above-ground tank. And they require only some basic attention to keep them in good shape.

It’s important to keep an eye out for signs of corrosion on the exterior of your tank, particularly rust. You should also make sure that your propane tank is always sitting level to the ground, as flooding or extreme runoff can cause the ground to shift.

Our techs will check whenever we do a fill-up, but if you notice anything after a bad storm, always call us.

Underground Tanks

The main benefit of an underground tank is that it doesn’t detract from your home’s curb appeal. It can also be safer, depending on your home’s location. But not being able to do a visual inspection means it’s a little harder to know if there are any problems emerging.

New underground propane tanks have a special anticorrosion coating that helps extend their lifespan. They can last up to 30 years, depending on the soil type and whether they were installed properly. Any underground propane tank should have sacrificial anodes included in installation. Typically, we recommend one bag per 500 gallons of capacity. These anodes absorb natural electric currents in the ground and water that would otherwise corrode and deteriorate your tank. In addition, you should have us perform regular maintenance and check regulators.

Need to Replace Your Propane Storage Tank?

Whether you’re new to propane or just need to replace your tank, we can answer all your questions about propane, propane storage tanks, and propane deliveries for your Tri-Cities home or business. We can help you choose the best size tank for your needs. We can also help identify the best location for your tank, including whether underground or above-ground is best, and we’ll make sure it’s installed safely.

Ready to learn more? Contact us today.