Understanding Your Propane Tank

Your propane tank may seem like a basic structure serving a simple purpose, but understanding it can help keep you and your family safe. There are many parts to your tank that perform different and important functions.


Basic Tank Requirements

  • Tank Color: your propane tank must be painted with a reflective color
  • Above-Ground Tanks: must be placed above the soil and on level ground
  • Underground Tanks: Generally must be buried 1 foot deeper than the height of the tank.
  • Manufacturer’s Data-Plate: your tank MUST have a data-plate in order to be filled

Tank Placement:

ABOVE-GROUND TANKS:
200# – 120 Tank
Must be at least 5 feet from window, crawl space, ventilation, or driveway.
Must be at least 10 feet from electric source, intake vents, or any combustible materials.

250 – 500 Gallon Tank
Must be at least 10 feet from house, other building, or property line.
Must be at least 10 feet from electric source, intake vents, or any combustible materials.

501 – 2,000 Gallon Tank
Must be at least 25 feet from house, other building, or property line.
Must be at least 10 feet from electric source, intake vents, or any combustible materials.

UNDERGROUND TANKS:
Up to 2,000 Gallons
Must be at least 10 feet from house, other building, or property line.
Must be at least 10 feet away from electric source, intake vents, or any combustible materials.
All underground tanks must have cathodic protection and be tested every three years.

In addition to these requirements, any propane tank that receives refill deliveries must be 5 feet from your driveway.


Understanding Your Propane Tank Parts

Now that you know the basic requirements for a compliant propane tank, let’s take a look at its individual parts:

  • Fill Valve: Point at which the hose from delivery truck is attached to the tank for re-fueling
  • Fixed Liquid Level Gauge: Indicates the level of propane is at or above 80% capacity
  • Float Gauge: Also called a dial gauge, shows propane volume in the tank
  • Liquid Withdrawal Valve: Used to withdraw liquid propane from the tank
  • Regulator: Maintains a safe and effective pressure level in your tank to ensure a steady flow of propane
  • Relief Valve: Safety relief mechanism designed to vent propane in an over-pressure situation
  • Service Valve: Also known as the shut-off valve…this is the point at which propane is converted to vapor for use with appliance (s)
  • Vapor Return Valve: Used during propane delivery to remove excess tank pressure


Keeping You Safe

Propane tanks come in many different sizes and are manufactured by many different companies around the globe. All tank manufacturers are required to adhere to the ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) requirements in the construction of propane pressure vessels for use in the United States.  In addition, there are national, state, and local standards governing the installation of propane tanks. You can trust Keystone Propane’s expertise in upholding all codes and regulations during the installation and refill process.

All Keystone Propane employees undergo the Certified Employee Training Program (CETP) developed by the Propane Education & Research Council. This training program equips our personnel with the skills and knowledge to perform their job duties safely and effectively. You can rest assured that every Keystone technician is highly competent and certified to properly operate equipment and handle propane products, while prioritizing your family’s safety.


Quick Notes

  • The propane in your tank is actually a liquid. It is converted to a gas for use in your appliances.
  • Because propane expands and contracts with temperature changes, as a safety precaution, your tank is only filled to 80% capacity.
  • If your tank runs out of propane, safety code requires that a leak check be performed before the gas is turned back on.
  • If you have an emergency and need to shut off your propane tank, simply turn the service (shut-off) valve clockwise until tightly closed.*
    *This should be done only if necessary. A leak check must be performed after any interruption of propane service occurs.