Propane tanks are convenient for grilling and heating, but storing them improperly can be extremely dangerous. Many people assume it’s fine to keep a spare tank in their shed, but this can lead to various safety hazards. Let’s explore why this practice is so risky and offer alternative solutions to ensure your propane is stored safely.
Flammable Vapors: A Fire Waiting to Happen
Propane can easily catch fire, and even a small leak from a propane tank can release vapors that can ignite. Sheds often contain items like lawnmowers, grills, or even electrical tools, all of which can act as ignition sources and, hence, dramatically increase the risk of a blowout.
Poor Ventilation Traps Dangerous Gases
Sheds are typically small and closed off, lacking adequate ventilation. If a propane tank leaks, the propane gas can accumulate quickly and create a highly dangerous environment. Without a way for the gas to escape, the risk of an accident significantly increases.
Mishandling by Kids or Pets
If your shed is accessible to children or pets, the risk goes up. Kids might play around with the tank or accidentally knock it over, which could cause damage or increase the chance of a leak. A shed is rarely a controlled environment, and that’s a risk not worth taking.
Propane Leaks Go Undetected
Detecting a propane leak might be challenging in the confined space of a shed until it’s too late. The odor of propane can sometimes go unnoticed in such spaces, and by the time you smell it, the concentration could already be dangerously high.
Spontaneous Combustion Due to Static Electricity
Static electricity is a hidden danger in sheds, particularly when the air is dry. Any static charge from clothing or equipment can spark a flame if it interacts with leaking propane vapors. A shed’s confined space exacerbates this risk and, hence, is unsafe for propane storage.
Explosion Risks in High Heat
During the summer, sheds can reach scorching temperatures. If the temperature inside the shed rises too high, the pressure inside the propane tank can increase, and in extreme cases, it can cause the tank to rupture or explode. This is one of the most serious risks of improper storage.
Store It Outdoors
It’s best to keep your tank outdoors, where there is proper ventilation and isn’t open to potential sources of ignition. Keeping your tank outside and in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight is safer than storing it in an enclosed space like a shed.
Keep It Away From Structures
When storing your propane tank outside, ensure it’s at least 10 feet away from your home, garage, or shed. This is to make sure that fire doesn’t catch on other structures in case of an accident.
Don’t Store Old Tanks
If you have an old or unused propane tank, don’t store it in your shed “just in case.” Over time, unused tanks can deteriorate and develop leaks. Ensure that they are disposed of appropriately at a proper facility to avoid any risks.
Always Store Tanks Upright
Whether indoors or outdoors, always store propane tanks in an upright position. Storing tanks on their side or in an unstable position can cause gas to leak through the safety valve, creating a hazardous situation.
Always Close the Valve Properly
One of the most critical safety steps when storing or transporting a propane tank is to ensure that the valve is tightly closed. Even a small, unnoticed release of gas from a partially closed valve can lead to a dangerous buildup of propane vapors.
Regular Inspections Are Key
Even when stored correctly, it’s important that you check the propane tank regularly for any indication of rust, dents, or leaks. Regular inspections help ensure that your tank is functioning safely and reduces the chance of unexpected accidents.
Label Propane Storage Areas Clearly
If you must store propane tanks in your shed or garage, labeling the area clearly is a good idea. In case of an emergency, such as a fire, responders will know there are propane tanks present, which can help them take the necessary precautions to prevent further danger.
Install Propane Detectors in Storage Areas
Although typically used in homes, propane detectors are a smart addition to sheds storing propane tanks. These devices can sense propane leaks early, giving you time to act before the gas reaches dangerous levels.
Don’t Store Multiple Propane Tanks Together
Storing multiple propane tanks together may seem convenient, but it increases the risk of a dangerous chain reaction in case of a fire. A spark could ignite one tank and set off the others. Always limit the number of tanks stored in one area.