3 Signs Your Propane Tank Needs Replacement
Written on: November 4, 2024
When You Need a New Propane Storage Tank, Pico Can Help
You may not think much about your propane storage tank—especially if it’s underground. You likely know where the gauge is, to see if you need a fill-up, and you should know where the shut-off valve is, in case of emergency. If your propane tank came with your house, you may not even know how old it is. The good news is that propane storage tanks are built to last and are low maintenance, for the most part.
There are three signs that your propane storage tank needs to be replaced:
1. Excessive Rust or Corrosion
We inspect your above-ground tank for signs of age every time we deliver fuel, but it’s always smart to keep an eye out for rust. A little rust or a few small dings are not a problem, but large or deep patches of rust and bigger dents can develop into leaks and allow moisture into the tank – two problems you want to avoid.
Underground tanks should be installed with sacrificial anodes (typically, we recommend one bag per 500 gallons), which absorb natural electric currents in the ground and water that would otherwise corrode and deteriorate your propane tank. you should schedule regular inspection for your underground tanks so we can monitor the anodes and other signs of problems.
2. Damage
If your storage tank is damaged, it should be professionally inspected and most likely replaced. Damage most often comes from an impact—due to storms or weather, for example, but other causes can be from construction, collision or anything that results in more than a small dent.
3. Size
The most common reason people need to replace their propane tank is because they are using more propane. If you find you are needing more frequent deliveries, consider whether your propane use has changed.
Sometimes, you may be using more propane temporarily. That can happen if the number of people in your home increases for a few weeks—like when kids return home from college for breaks—and there are more people bathing, doing laundry, or washing dishes. Or, if you use propane for heat, you may need to use more propane during periods of intense cold.
But if your household has expanded—a new baby, extended family moving in—you likely will continue using more propane regularly. A larger tank can reduce how often you need to order propane.
Another change that can affect your propane use is adding more propane appliances. If you went, for example, from only using propane for cooking, to adding propane a propane water heater, space heaters or a gas fireplace, your propane needs will increase.
Need a New Propane Storage Tank?
If you think you need a new propane storage tank, contact the experts at Pico. We can answer all your questions about propane, propane tanks, and propane deliveries for your Texas or New Mexico home or business. We’ll make sure you have the best size propane tank for your needs. We can also help identify the best location for your tank, including whether underground or above ground is best, and we’ll make sure it’s installed safely. We’re also here for safe and reliable propane deliveries, so you always have the propane you need, no matter what size tank you have. Ready to learn more?
Contact us today.
