Protect Your Propane Tank During Extreme Heat

When extremely hot weather is predicted like we’re experiencing this week – and this can be accompanied by days and sometimes weeks of drought-like conditions – there are steps you can take to keep your propane system working properly:

Make sure the area within 10 feet of your propane tank and your propane grill is clear of flammable materials. Remove any debris that is combustible or easily ignited, including leaves, brush, any vegetation, and rags.
Cool down your outdoor propane tank by spraying it with a garden hose. By doing so, you can help lower the gas pressure and elevated temperature levels inside the tank. This reduces the possibility of the system releasing excess gas through the pressure-relief valve, its built-in safety feature.

Follow these general safety rules!

Extreme heat can contribute to power outages, wildfires, or other events requiring you to take additional safety measures. To help reduce the potential for injury or death, there are general safety rules you should observe at all times:

NEVER use outdoor propane appliances indoors or in enclosed areas. This could result in CO poisoning or death. These include outdoor portable heaters, barbecue grills, and portable generators. Only use appliances indoors that are designed and approved for indoor use.
NEVER store or place a propane cylinder indoors or in an enclosed area such as a basement, garage, shed, or tent.
DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES TRY TO MODIFY OR REPAIR VALVES, REGULATORS, OR OTHER APPLIANCE PARTS.
NEVER turn on a light switch, use any power source, or inspect your household appliances while standing in water. This can result in electrocution.
DO inspect your propane appliances for water or other damage, if it is safe to do so. If the appliances have electric components and have been exposed to water, they can create a fire hazard.

If you suspect any of your propane appliances or equipment have been damaged, or you have turned off your gas supply:

DO schedule a time for a qualified service technician to perform a complete inspection of your propane system. The technician can also perform a leak test on the system and re-light your pilot lights.
DO NOT use or operate appliances, equipment, or vehicles, or turn on the gas supply, until your system has been inspected by a qualified service technician.

When following these steps to protect your propane tank during extreme heat, not only are you protecting your tank, but also ensuring the safety of yourself, your family, and your home.

If you are experiencing any issues, have questions, or just want to talk more about propane and how beneficial it is to use in your home, contact our Total Fuel Service team today!

Source: http://www.valleypropaneinc.com/safety/weather-emergencies/extreme-heat/index.html