Keeping Your Propane Tank from Freezing this Winter

If you are one of the many who use propane at home, on the farm or in your work environment, you probably already know some of the reasons that make it such a valuable fuel. Propane is safe with a very low ignition point, cannot be ingested, its non-toxic, environmentally friendly, clean burning, less costly and very versatile in its applications. Now that you’ve finally managed to stock up on your propane supply, and winter is almost here, how do you prevent your propane tank from freezing?

Maintaining Pressure is Key

Fluid level and temperature maximize pressure in a propane tank. There are a few situations that can cause your propane tank to freeze, including:

• When the tank is low or not full and it’s cold outside, and the pressure drops
• Temperatures below -44°F, the boiling point of propane, means it cannot vaporize, making the product unusable.
• If your tank is drawing more pressure than it is designed for, or drawing too much pressure in a short period of time.

Safe Heating Methods

Keeping your propane tank full is one safe heating methods. There are a couple of other safe heating methods to maintain the tank pressure and keep it from freezing. Fuel use will be more efficient if the tank is operating properly.

Insulated Heating Blanket

If you simply plug in an insulated heating blanket, this allows you to safely and easily control temperature and pressure.

Gas Cylinder Heaters

Gas cylinder heaters provide a uniform barrier of heat across the entire cylinder.

Heating Practices Not Recommended

It is important to know of more conventional methods that have been used, but are quite dangerous and not recommended. Propane is much safer than some other fuel sources, but it is still flammable and should never be exposed to open flames or an uncontrolled heating source. Heating practices for your propane tank that we do not recommend include:

• Hot water
• Tank submerged in water with boiler underneath it
• Blow torches
• Space heater

Winter Tank Maintenance Tips

With an operational tank, there are a few other tips for good winter maintenance that will keep your family and your business safe and warm through the cold winter months.

1. Mark the location of your propane tank with a flag or stake that will be visible in the case of snow.
2. Clear any snow or ice from off or around the tank with something soft, such as a broom. Anything made of hard metal or plastic, such as a shovel, should not be used for this.
3. Do not use a snow blower near the meter.
4. Keep valves, piping and the meter clear of snow and ice.
5. Check regulator vents to be sure they are not clogged.
6. Clear snow and ice from all outdoor vents, chimneys and flues.

 

These are just a few ways to keep your propane tank from freezing this winter. For more winter preparation tips, don’t hesitate to contact us here at Texas Propane with the link below!