April 8, 2022

Proper Propane Tank Maintenance will ensure its safety and usability for years to come.

When you purchase a propane tank, it is your responsibility to keep it well maintained and in proper working order. If you have questions or would like help with keeping your propane tank maintained, give our office a call and we’ll be happy to help.

Here are some items to consider when purchasing a propane tank:

Tank Placement

When you install your propane tank containers there are rules and regulations that may vary from town to town on where it can be placed. Gerner Energy follows all federal, state, and local regulations in proper tank placement. This includes both above and below ground tanks.

Here is information on Baltimore County’s Tank Placement Regulations

Tank Access

In order to fill your tank, your propane provider (like Gerner Energy) needs to have easy access to your tank. Keep it free of debris, plants, and other obstructions. Additionally, you may need to coordinate with your provider to make sure they have access to locked gates, and that pets are secured – we don’t want any pets getting out during a fill.

Painting Your Container

Propane containers must be painted to help prevent corrosion. In most cases, your container will already be painted when you purchase it. If you do paint your container, use only reflective colors. Do not paint the data plate or any valves, gauges, or warning labels. If the data plate is not legible, the container may not be able to be refilled.

Inspections

Depending on the type of container you purchase and your local municipality, you need to have periodic inspections of your tank to make sure it is still in full working order. Additionally, should your tank ever completely run out, a complete inspection needs to be done to make sure there are no leaks.

Protection from the Elements

Flooding

In areas prone to flooding, national regulations require that propane containers be anchored securely to avoid potentially dangerous situations. You must have your container properly anchored if you live in or near a flood plain, or in an area where coastal flooding may occur.

Earthquakes

In areas prone to earthquakes, local codes may require you to securely anchor your container. Check with your us to see if there are any code requirements for you home or business.

Extreme Weather

Make sure your container and propane system are properly secured for all types of extreme weather that may occur in your area. It is your responsibility to have your container repaired and inspected by a qualified service technician if damaged from extreme weather such as hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, earthquakes, or high winds.

Understanding the Labels

Make sure you understand and follow all warnings and labels on your container and propane system. This will help to ensure your system operates safely and efficiently.

Understanding Your Warranty

Some manufacturers will extend their warranty only to the original purchaser of the container. If you purchase a container from a dealer or other party, the warranty will be voided. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions of the warranty before you decide to purchase a container.

Check Your Home Insurance

Some insurers may have special conditions or requirements specific to container ownership. It is a good idea to contact your homeowner’s insurance provider, inform them that you own your container, and confirm that you have insurance coverage in the event of a problem.

Propane Tank Maintenance is an important part of keeping you and your family safe.

Questions? Reach out To Us Anytime

Propane Tank Maintenance – What You Need to Know

April 8, 2022

Proper Propane Tank Maintenance will ensure its safety and usability for years to come.

Tank Placement

Tank Access

Painting Your Container

Inspections

Protection from the Elements

Flooding

Earthquakes

Extreme Weather

Understanding the Labels

Understanding Your Warranty

Check Your Home Insurance

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