When to Seek Propane Tank Removal

Is It Time to Replace Your Propane Tank? 3 Signs to Know

Your propane tank should last for at least 30 years, although underground tanks have a shorter life. They are built to last and are very low maintenance. You might think that the obvious time to replace your propane storage tank is when it shows signs of aging, like rust and corrosion. But other reasons might surprise you: Changes in your lifestyle—like a growing family or more appliances—can result in the need for a new propane tank.

Here are the signs that your propane storage tank needs to be replaced.

1. Excessive Rust or Corrosion

If your propane tank was already installed when you bought your house, you may not even know how old it is. That’s why visual inspections are more important than the actual age of your tank. 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. While a little rust or a few small dings are not a problem, large or deep patches of rust and bigger dents can develop into leaks and also allow moisture into the tank—two problems you definitely want to avoid.

Plants and shrubbery can make a good screen to block views of your tank, but make sure plants are pruned to leave plenty of space around the tank. Foliage can trap moisture and accelerate rust formation.

If you have an underground tank, you can’t check for that type of deterioration. It’s important that underground tanks are 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 tank. You should schedule regular inspections for your underground tanks so we can monitor the anodes and check for other signs of problems—especially if you don’t know when the tank was installed.

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 sometimes damage can result from a collision or construction.

3. You Need a Bigger Tank

The most common reason people need to replace their tank is because they are using more propane. A good indicator that your propane use has increased is if you find you need more frequent deliveries.

One reason you may be using more propane is that you added more propane appliances. For example, if you started out only using propane for cooking but have added a propane water heater, space heaters, or a gas fireplace, your propane needs will increase.

Your propane use can also increase if there are more people in your home. A new baby or extended family moving in means more people taking showers, more laundry, and so on. If it’s temporary, like kids home for school breaks, you likely don’t need a larger tank. But if the new additions are permanent, you should consider a larger tank. You can always talk to us about your changing needs.

A larger tank can reduce how often you need to order propane and ensure you always have enough on hand.

Ready for a New Propane Storage Tank?

If you think you need a new propane storage tank, Casey can help. Whether you need to install a new tank or replace an old one, our pros have the expertise to handle everything for you, and we’ll make sure the job is done safely and properly. We’ll also make sure you always have the propane you need, when you need it, with convenient options to suit your lifestyle, including auto fill, will call, and wireless tank monitoring.

Contact us for more information today!