Proper propane tank placement and installation

Installing a new propane tank might seem like a straightforward process. Choose a flat spot, not too far from a driveway or the house, and set the tank there, right?

“Well, there’s actually a little more to it than that,” reports Steve Dodson, a member of the family-owned Wildhorse Propane & Appliances in Paso Robles, California.

Dodson has advice on proper propane tank placement and installation.

The National Fire Protection Association has established guidelines for propane tank placement to ensure safety:

• Tanks between 125 and 500 gallons must maintain a minimum distance of 10 ft. from buildings, property lines and ignition sources.
• Larger tanks (1,000 to 2,000 gallons) require a 25-ft. setback from buildings and property lines.
• Smaller tanks (less than 125 gallons) should be at least 5 ft. from windows and 10 ft. from air conditioners.
• Underground tanks up to 2,000 gallons need a 10-ft. setback.

While propane tanks are generally safe, it’s essential to follow all safety guidelines.

• Considerations for the best location include:
• A propane tank, regardless of size, needs a stable, flat surface with easy access from the driveway or street. Some propane customers choose a concrete slab to provide a clean, solid platform that can support the tank’s weight. Some choose a packed surface of decomposed granite.
• A location that does not get muddy during the rain or from water runoff is ideal, and a slab or compacted decomposed granite helps achieve this. Ground that gets too wet is subject to instability and surfaces that are not level are also subject to erosion from water runoff.
• The propane delivery driver needs to park within about 80 ft. of the tank for refills. The tank can be placed at least 5 ft. from a driveway or road with no obstacles that would need to be navigated.
• Avoid areas with power poles, trees or shrubbery that block access to the tank or anything that might fall on the tank in the event of a storm or earthquake. Also avoid low-hanging wires, branches and fences that block access.
• Choose an area that avoids septic tanks, underground utility lines other than the gas line connections, and sprinkler or drip systems.
• If there are livestock on the property, fence them away from the tank. Large animals can damage the connections, meter cover and meters by rubbing and scratching on the tank.
• Make sure the area is well-ventilated to allow for safe gas dispersion in the event of a leak.

Landscaping: Yes or no?

Some people don’t like the look of a propane tank sitting in their yard, so customers might wonder if it’s OK to landscape around the tank.

Reasonable landscaping is acceptable. For Wildhorse’s California customers, drought-tolerant, native California plants are ideal.

Place plants far enough away from the tank so that the minimal watering they require doesn’t create wet ground.

Decorative fencing that allows sufficient space is also acceptable as long as there is plenty of room around the tank.

Avoid planting trees too closely to the tank, or overhanging branches might become a problem. Roots can also destabilize the soil.

Keep the area directly around the tank clear of debris, weeds and anything that the wind might blow into the area.

It’s important to ensure there’s enough space around the tank to fill and inspect it at each delivery.
Professional installation, maintenance and service are critical.