Propane Service in Buckingham Township

Knowledge is power, but when it comes to propane tanks, knowledge can save your life. This is because a bad or expired tank can cause leaks which can be potentially dangerous. A propane tank is built to last for 12 years. However, understanding how long a propane tank is good for depends on many factors and laws, which we will be delving into here.

Expiry dates on propane tanks

Usually, when you buy a propane tank, you will see the date it was manufactured or requalified around the collar. It will look like this, 07-22, which is June 2022.

How long do small propane tanks last?

For propane tanks less than 100lbs, they last for nothing more than 12 years. After those 12 years, you can get another tank as a replacement or get the old propane tank requalified. If your propane tank is successfully requalified, you can use it for five years more.

How long does a large propane tank last?

Propane tanks larger than 100lbs are usually leased from the propane supplier, so you may not need to keep track of expiration; the company that owns the propane tank will take responsibility for that. However, you should note that large above-ground propane tanks should last for around 30 years while those underground should last for 30-40 years.

What does a propane tank being requalified mean?

Propane tanks are built to last for a very long time but cannot be good forever. So, every few years in the 12 years life span, your tank should be requalified. This means that they should be tested to ensure the tank is not faulty.

When you check the collar of the tank for the manufacturing date, if you see the letter “s” following the date, the tank should be inspected seven years from the date on the collar. This is because the tank was examined with ” internal hydrostatic expansion.”

If it is the letter “e” that is after the date, then the tank should be taken for inspection after five years from the date on the collar of the tank. This is because the tank was only inspected externally and visually.

If there is no letter after the date on the collar, your tank was inspected using “external hydrostatic expansion.” Thus, after 12 years from the date on the collar, the tank should be taken for requalification.

How long can you keep propane in a tank?

One of the most significant advantages of using propane is that it doesn’t have a limited shelf life. You can store it for as long as you like.

Tips to make your propane tank last

• Ensure that you have routine checkups for the tank. Be in contact with the propane tank suppliers and call them every once in a while for inspection.

• Understand when you need to have the tank taken in for requalification.

• Keep the tank away from direct sunlight and rain because it can cause high temperatures and rust, respectively.

Conclusion

How long a propane tank is good for will depend on how well you take care of it and adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions.