Written on: November 8, 2021
If you use propane in your home, it is essential you know about the operations of your propane tank.
This is especially important in the winter, when having a safe propane tank and a ready supply of propane is needed to keep your home warm, safe, and comfortable.
We’ve put together some tips to protect your tank, your home, and your comfort.
Who wants to go outside in the cold to check their propane tank levels when it’s cold out? Stay warm and inside by using AFC’s Automatic Delivery service to get your propane. Our cutting-edge computerized system keeps track of your propane usage history as well as current weather to ensure that your home receives a supply of fuel before you run low.
When a nor’easter or snowstorm strikes, you’ll be shoveling snow or using your snowblower and spreading sand or de-icer. While doing this, also make your home and propane tank accessible to your AFC delivery driver. If our driver is unable to safely access your driveway or propane tank, they may be unable to deliver your propane. When you clear your driveway, be sure it is cleared 10 feet or more wide for our delivery truck. The path to your propane tank should also be open and safe, with the location of the propane tank clearly marked. A pole driven into the ground high enough to be seen above snow drifts and topped with a brightly colored flag should be used to identify the position.
You may believe that a blanket of snow on your propane tank keeps it safe from the cold, but the worst thing you can do is leave snow on or around it. Snow reflects warming sunlight away from your propane tank. When propane gets cold, it shrinks. If it shrinks too much, the pressure in your tank can fall to the point that it harms the performance of your propane equipment, such as your furnace or boiler, as well as other appliances like your water heater or range. Snow can also harm connections and joints, as well as cause the tank to shift on its base. These factors can all lead to gas leaks. If snow accumulates around the tank and there is a leak, the gas may be trapped from dissipating into the air, resulting in an accumulation of dangerous pressure. Use a broom to clear snow off the tank and base, as shovels can damage the tank and its parts.
If you detect gas, don’t wait. Everyone must evacuate IMMEDIATELY. Any cigarettes, candles, or other sources of ignition should be extinguished. On your way out, DO NOT use your phone or electrical switches. Call 911 and AFC as soon as everyone is safely away from the house.
AFC makes it easy to have propane in your home. Contact us to learn more about our propane tank services.
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