Wondering how far a propane tank needs to be installed away from your home? For most homeowners installing a single tank, a minimum of 10 feet from anything and everything is a quick rule of thumb. We’ve put together a simple graphic that addresses most requirements for safe LP tank installation.
An above ground propane tank needs to be at least 10 feet away from any exterior source of ignition, openings into direct-vent gas appliances, or mechanical ventilation air intakes (Location of ASME Containers from NFPA 58, Appendix 1). If activated, safety relief valves will vent propane vertically meaning propane tanks cannot be installed under an awning or building overhang (Propane Tank Distance Requirements, Propane101.com). Sources of ignition include window A/C units and central A/C compressors. Minimum distances increase with tank size and multiple tank installations. Additional federal, state, or local ordinances or pertinent industry regulations may apply to your install.
When having an LP tank installed for your home, choose the experts at Crystal Flash. All of our teammates complete ongoing, monthly training and we will work with you to find the optimal location for your propane tank that meets the latest guidelines and your preferences.
Additional Recommendations
We recommend a tank location that can be seen from your driveway. This helps your delivery driver find your tank quickly, no matter the weather. Also, make sure your address can be easily seen from both directions of traffic at the road with reflective numbers as well as having well-lit numbers displayed near your front door.
FAQs
Wondering how far a propane tank needs to be installed away from your home? For most homeowners installing a single tank, a minimum of 10 feet from anything and everything is a quick rule of thumb.
What is the flash point of propane? ›
Propane
| Names |
|---|
| Precautionary statements | P210 |
| NFPA 704 (fire diamond) | 2 4 0 |
| Flash point | −104 °C (−155 °F; 169 K) |
| Autoignition temperature | 470 °C (878 °F; 743 K) |
59 more rowsFor 125- to 500-gallon propane tanks, the distance is at least 10 feet – from any building and from any property line. Same with underground propane tanks that hold up to 2,000 gallons: The minimum distance, from either a building or a property line, is 10 feet.
What are the NFPa requirements for propane storage tanks? ›
CODE CONDITION: NFPA 58 APPENIX 1: LESS THAN 125 GALLONS – MUST BE 5 FEET MIN. AWAY FROM WINDOW A/C (SOURCE OF IGNITION) AND 10 FEET MIN. AWAY FROM INTAKE TO DIRECT VENT APPLIANCE.
What is ice buildup on valves or piping connections in a clear indication of a propane leak? ›
If you notice water bubbling around the area where your propane tank is located, you've likely got a propane gas leak. Keep an eye out for frost or ice forming on any hoses connected to your tank—this could indicate a high concentration of propane in the air around your tank.
What is the flash point of LPG tank? ›
4.1 Flash Point: Propane: -156°FC. C.; butane: - 76°FC. C.
At what temperature does propane explode? ›
As the portable propane tank gets hotter, the pressure inside the tank will increase. But tank temperatures would need to reach higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit or 40 degrees Celsius to cause a rupture.
Can I put a 100lb propane tank next to my house? ›
If you do not have your 100-pound tank filled on-site, it needs to be 3 feet from all building openings and 5 feet away from any ignition source, direct vent intakes and mechanical air intakes.
Can a 120 gallon propane tank be next to the house? ›
A propane tank less than 125 gallons can be placed adjacent to the house, while larger tanks must be at least 10' away. This means the tank can be more easily disguised by planting a bush or tree in front of it, making the tank placement more visually inconspicuous. A 125 gallon tank is 4' tall and 3' diameter.
How long does a 500 gallon propane tank last for a house? ›
A 500-gallon tank holds 400 gallons of propane and can last several months, ranging between 2 to 14 months. On average, homeowners can expect that the tank will last around 5 months with regular use of appliances.
An above ground propane tank needs to be at least 10 feet away from any exterior source of ignition, openings into direct-vent gas appliances, or mechanical ventilation air intakes (Location of ASME Containers from NFPA 58, Appendix 1).
What are the OSHA rules for propane tanks? ›
OSHA specifies that cylinders cannot be stored near exits, stairways, entryways or close to high-traffic and busy areas. Propane cylinders mustn't be stored close to or with other flammable or combustible materials. They should be stored in cylinder safety cages or cabinets in flat areas that don't collect water.
What is the NFPa 58 rule? ›
Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code
The industry benchmark for safe LP-Gas storage, handling, transportation, and use, NFPA 58 mitigates risks and ensures safe installations, to prevent failures, leaks, and tampering that could lead to fires and explosions.
What does WC mean on a propane tank? ›
Most propane grill tanks come with two numbers stamped on the handle – the water capacity (“WC”) and Tare Weight (TW – the weight of the tank when it's empty). Most grilling tanks weigh about 17 pounds when empty.
Where do most leaks occur on propane tanks? ›
The bleeder valve or fixed level gauge is typically opened when a propane tank is filled. If it isn't closed all the way after the fill is done, propane will begin leaking. If the leak is at the valve but it isn't open, it may be from a clogged coil, which happens when a propane tank has been leaking.
Why is ice forming on my propane tank? ›
Why Is My Propane Tank Freezing? Propane tanks freeze primarily due to the rapid vaporization of propane within the tank.
What is the flash temperature of propane? ›
Propane Combustion Characteristics
| Lower Limit of Flammability | 2.15 |
|---|
| Flash Point | -156°F |
| Ignition Temperature in Air | 920-1020°F |
| Maximum Flame Temperature | 3595°F |
| Octane Number | Over 100 |
1 more rowAtmospheric Ignition Temperature - Between 920 and 1020 degrees Fahrenheit is the temperature at which propane is capable of ignition without an ignition source. For comparison, gasoline has an ignition temperature between 80 and 300 degrees.
Can a spark ignite propane? ›
While this may not sound like much, propane mixed with air at 2.15% to 9.60% only requires about . 25 to . 30 mJ of energy for ignition. The smallest static spark you can see or feel has double the energy required to ignite propane!
How flammable is propane gas? ›
What are fire hazards and extinguishing media for propane? Flammable Properties: EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE GAS. Can easily ignite. Can readily form explosive mixture with air at room temperature.
