Important facts and responsibilities about underground propane tank ownership.
Customers who own their own underground propane tanks are responsible for the upkeep and protection of the container, which includes:
- General maintenance
- Protecting against corrosion and leaks
- Protection against flooding and extreme weather
- Understanding warnings and terms and conditions of the tank warranty
Propane tank installation, maintenance and repair should be performed only by a qualified service technician. If you own your tank, you are responsible for finding a qualified technician to service your tank. It is a good idea to identify and talk to service technicians, before a problem occurs, to make sure that they can service your tank in a timely and safe manner if required.
Protecting your tank against corrosion and leaks
- Underground propane tanks installed after 1/1/11 must have a cathodic protection system to help prevent corrosion of the tank. Without this protection, leaks can occur, resulting in personal injury and property damage. After a cathodic testing system has been installed, testing must be performed by a qualified service tech within 6 months of installation and then every year after that. You will need to keep the results of the last two tests to document that the cathodic protection is working properly.
Protection against flooding and extreme weather
- If you live in an area prone to flooding, regulations require that underground tanks be anchored securely to avoid potentially dangerous situations.
- It is your responsibility to have your underground tank repaired and inspected by a qualified service technician if it is damaged from extreme weather, like hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes or high winds.
Understanding warnings, labels, warranty terms and conditions
- Make sure that you understand and follow all warnings and labels on your tank and propane system. This will help to ensure that it operates safely and efficiently.
- Some manufacturers only extend their warranty to the original buyer of the tank. If you purchase a tank from a dealer or other party the warranty will be voided. Ensure that you understand all terms and conditions of any warranty before you decide to purchase a new tank.
Always check with your homeowner’s insurance provider before buying a tank. Some may have special conditions or requirements specific to tank ownership on your property. Contact your homeowner’s insurance provider, inform them that you own your tank and confirm that you have the correct insurance coverage in the event of any problems.
Remember, if you chose to own your underground propane tank, it’s up to you to take care of it. Don’t assume anything! Make sure that you follow all required installation, maintenance, testing, repairs and warranty terms and conditions.
Patriot Propane has preventive maintenance and service plans that can help maintain your tank and provide emergency service and repairs. If you have any other questions about underground propane tank ownership responsibilities or are looking to purchase a new tank, your local propane pros at Patriot Propane are here to help. Give us a call today!
Schedule your required cathodic protection test with Patriot Propane now for just $99.95!*
You can rely on our expert technicians to ensure that your underground tank meets all test criteria. Depending on the results and what action may be required to pass the test, we also have these special offers for parts and tank replacement!
- Anode replacement for up to a 500-gallon tank – $399.95**
- Anode replacement for an over 500-gallon tank – $499.95**
Contact us today!
*Does not cover the cost for existing deteriorated or corroded equipment. **Additional terms and conditions may apply. PA029620.
