Where To Have Your Propane Tank Installed

Published on: September 25, 2023

For Safe, Expert Tank Installations, Call SWVA

If you’re new to propane and you’re getting a new propane storage tank installed at your home, you probably have lots of questions about where this big piece of equipment will go on your property. While curb appeal is important, there are a few considerations besides aesthetics when it comes to the location of your propane tank. The pros at SVWA can answer all your questions and will help you choose the best location for you tank that’s safe and also doesn’t distract from the look of your home. If you’re replacing an old tank, it usually makes the most sense to keep the same set-up. But if it’s a new propane tank—or you want to change what you had before, here’s what to consider:

Above-ground Propane Tanks

There are safety regulations that dictate location of above-ground propane storage tanks, and size is a key factor:

• 100-gallon tanks must be placed at least 5 feet from the opening of a building (including windows), and at least 10 feet from any source of ignition.
• 325-gallon tanks and larger: the minimum distance from any opening in a building is 10 feet. Also, they must be placed at least 10 feet away from any source of ignition and at least 10 feet away from any property lines.

Underground Tank

Underground tanks have the same distance requirements as above-ground tanks. There are also requirements for the excavation:

• 100-gallon tanks require an excavation that is 9′ 6″ L x 4′ W x 44″ deep
• 500-gallon tanks require an excavation that is 14′ L x 5′ W x 4′ 6″ deep
• 1000-gallon tanks require an excavation that is 20′ L x 5′ 6″ W x 4′ 6″ deep

Additional Installation Information

Don’t forget to consider any other systems around your home, such as sprinkler and septic systems, which could be damaged or affected by excavation or installation equipment and or propane delivery trucks.

Low-hanging power lines could also create challenges for installation as well as for delivery trucks.

Installation Day

Once you’ve made your decisions about size and location, we’ll take care of the rest, from permits to lighting your pilots after your first fill-up. Depending on the size of the tank, we’ll use a crane to lift and place the tank on its concrete pad, or lower it into the ground if you’re opting for an underground installation. After the tank has been set and leveled, we’ll run the LP Gas yard lines connecting the gas plumbing stub out and propane tank regulator, cover the trench with backfill, test the system for leaks, and fill up your tank. Following the test and safety inspection, we’ll light any pilot lights, check appliances for proper operation and answer any questions you may have about the tank installation, service arrangements or delivery schedules.

Whether you decide on an above-ground or underground propane tank, know that the pros at SWVA can make selection, installation and maintenance of your tank easy. And we’ll provide reliable propane delivery services, too. Contact us for more information today.