How Long Does a Propane Tank Last – and Other Important Questions

The propane tank is the heart of your propane-powered home, pumping propane gas to appliances that will keep your family warm and your home more fun and comfortable all year long.

But how much do you really know about propane tanks? Here are three important questions and answers to get you started.

1. How long should a propane tank last? Propane tanks are built for the long haul: on average, a high quality, properly maintained galvanized aboveground propane tank or propane cylinder should last 30 years or more, while some aluminum and composite cylinders can last even longer. Much of the propane tank longevity equation comes down to the size and use of the tank and how well it has been cared for – for example, propane tanks that are installed underground have a shorter average life expectancy of 20 to 30 years, depending on the soil type and whether or not the tank was installed properly.

2. How large a propane tank do I need? Propane tanks come in a range of sizes; choosing the right size for your Connecticut home depends on the kind of propane appliances and equipment that you intend to run. Here are some common propane tank sizes and some of the appliances they typically power:

• 56 gallon – For ovens, ranges and clothes dryers (holds 48 gallons of propane)
• 120 gallon – For water heaters, space heaters and pool heaters (holds 100 gallons of propane)
• 250 gallon – For generators, pool heaters, and a combination of appliances (holds 200 gallons of propane)
• 500 gallon – For central heating and pool heaters (holds 400 gallons of propane)
• 1000 gallon – For large homes and commercial applications (holds 850 gallons of propane)

3. What are some of these rules and regulations about propane tank placement? The placement of a propane tank is determined by federal, state and local laws, which must be observed at all times. Here are some of the most important ones:

Propane tanks under 125 gallons water capacity:

• Must be at least 10 feet from a window air conditioner
• Must be placed a minimum of 5 feet from a crawl space opening

Propane tanks 125-500 gallons water capacity:

• Must be placed a minimum of 10 feet from a building
• Must be at least 10 feet from a line of adjoining property

Propane tanks up to 2000 gallons water capacity:

• must be placed a minimum of 25 feet from the building
• no part of an underground tank of this size shall be less than 10 feet from a building or line of adjoining property

Have any more questions about propane tanks? Contact a propane expert at Hocon Gas today to learn more!