3 Tips For Identifying Damaged Propane Tanks
Propane serves as an affordable and easily accessible fuel source. If you rely on propane fuel to power vital appliances on a daily basis, you likely keep a supply of propane on reserve to ensure you have contact access to fuel. The storage tanks being used to hold your spare fuel must remain intact in order to ensure safety.
Here are three tips that you can use to help identify damaged propane tanks in the future:
1. Check valve function.
Propane tanks come equipped with several valves that are designed to help facilitate the storage process. A release valve remains in constant contact with the air space between the propane and the top of your tank.
This valve allows excess gas to escape the tank slowly, preventing a potentially dangerous gas buildup that could lead to an explosion. Be sure that you take the time to routinely check the functionality of the valves on your propane tanks to ensure proper storage of your spare fuel in the future.
2. Check tank integrity.
Propane storage tanks are often constructed using durable metal materials. Although these materials are designed to withstand the test of time, they can become weak when damaged by contact. You should regularly inspect your propane tank for signs of dents.
Dents can weaken the integrity of the metal, causing it to deteriorate over time. This deterioration leaves your propane tank susceptible to leaks that could harm the environment and serve as a safety hazard. Replace any dented propane tanks to ensure safety in the future.
3. Check for rust.
Many people store their propane tanks sitting upright on the ground. This storage practice could leave your tanks open to contact with moisture over time. Moisture that accumulates on the surface of your propane tanks can lead to the development of rust.
A rusted propane tank is more likely to leak, leaving your fuel storage vulnerable. Be sure that you are storing your propane tanks on elevated shelves in an area that is free from humidity and water leaks. This will help to reduce the chances that rust will damage your propane tanks in the future.
Being able to rely on your stored propane supply requires that you keep spare fuel in tanks that are undamaged. Take the time to routinely check the function of your tanks' valves, be watching for dents, and take note of any rust to ensure your propane tanks remain structurally sound in the future.
Contact a company like Taylor Gas Company Inc for more information and assistance.