How to Safely Store Portable Propane Tanks
Written on: March 3, 2025
Stashing Your Grill Tank for the Off-Season
Whether you keep a spare for your grill or have a tank ready to go with your RV or a camping trip, knowing how to safely store portable propane tanks is important.
Leave It Outside
Never store propane tanks indoors. Propane tanks should always be kept in an open, well-ventilated space, ideally out of the direct sun and at least 10 feet from your home. Don’t worry about cold temperatures—they won’t affect propane.
Check for Leaks
Do a careful inspection, looking closely at the valves, tank body, and the connector hose. Check your tank outside in a bright, well-ventilated space and far from any open flames or other ignition sources. You can also check for leaks by spraying the tank with a non-abrasive liquid soap.
If you see bubbles around the valve or the hose, make sure they’re closed tight and spray again. If you continue to see bubbles, or see them anywhere on the body of the tank, it’s an indication that you have a leak, and you should bring the tank to us for disposal.
Keep It Stable
When storing your propane tank, make sure it’s in a secure, level, and upright position. Keeping your tank upright protects against damage that could lead to leaks.
Cover Up
Waterproof covers will protect your propane cylinders from rain, which can lead to rust, and will provide protection from freezing rain, snow, or icing.
Know the Smell
While propane is very safe, you should make sure everyone in your home can identify the rotten-egg smell of propane and know what to do if they suspect a leak—especially if you also use propane to operate equipment and appliances in your home.
Turn It Off
If you bring your grill inside for the winter, you need to disconnect the tank and store it safely outside. If you leave your grill outdoors, you can keep the tank connected, just make sure to turn the tank off.
Not sure you know how to remove your grill tank? It’s as easy as 1-2-3:
- Make sure your grill is off, and the tank valve is closed (turn it all the way to the right, until it’s tight).
- Unscrew the grill pressure regulator by turning it to the left.
- Some grill models also have a restraining bolt. Just loosen it and remove the tank.
Store or Recycle?
If your portable tanks are getting old, you may want to consider disposing of them at the end of the season and replacing them in the spring instead of storing them for the winter. If you refill or exchange your tanks with us, we’ll make sure your tank is in good shape when you bring it in, and we will dispose of the old ones properly so you don’t have to.
Pico makes it easy, with 10 convenient locations across Texas for cylinder refill or exchange. Contact us today to find the location near you and for more information about all the services we offer.
