After a long Connecticut winter, the first signs of spring are always welcome. While you’re focused on yard cleanup and planning your first cookout, it’s also the perfect time to give your outdoor propane tank a little attention. Winter weather is tough on everything, and proactively preparing your tank before the heavy spring rains arrive is an essential step in maintaining safety and extending the life of your equipment.
At Levco, we are dedicated to excellence at every degree, and that includes providing our Fairfield and New Haven County neighbors with easy-to-follow safety tips. Taking just a few minutes now can prevent headaches and expensive issues later in the year.
Clear the Area and Check for Damage
The first step is a simple visual inspection. Your tank needs plenty of clear space for safe access and to prevent potential damage.
Remove Debris: Check around the base of the tank and the gas lines. Snow, ice, leaves, and winter debris can accumulate around the tank, potentially holding moisture against the metal. Clear all this away.
Trim Foliage: As the season shifts, new growth begins. Ensure no shrubs, bushes, or tall grass are growing right up against the tank or concealing its connections. Propane tanks should have at least 10 feet of clearance from sources of ignition and a clear path for servicing.
Inspect Visually: Look closely at the tank, its connections, and the gauge. If you spot any signs of wear, deep rust, loose connections, or physical damage, contact us immediately at (203) 533-8249. Never attempt repairs yourself.
Protect Against the Elements
Spring showers can quickly saturate the ground, and humidity follows. Taking steps now will help protect the metal tank from corrosion.
Check the Paint: A tank’s specialized exterior paint is its first defense against rust and corrosion. If you notice any large areas of peeling paint or exposed metal, it's time to talk to us about repainting options. A healthy coat of reflective, light-colored paint keeps the tank protected and helps it regulate internal temperature.
Ensure Proper Drainage: Look around the base of the tank to make sure water drains away naturally. If the ground around your tank is consistently muddy or collects standing water, it can accelerate rust and compromise the tank pad over time.
Schedule Your Spring Check-Up
Even if your furnace worked perfectly all winter, spring is an ideal time for a professional check-up and to assess your delivery needs.
Review Your Gauge: While you might be using less propane now, keeping your tank above 20% helps prevent issues related to condensation and rust formation inside the tank. If you're near that level, request a delivery.
Trust the Experts: While self-checks are useful, a certified Levco technician can spot subtle issues that you might miss. We can check the pressure regulator, lines, and tank integrity to ensure everything is operating safely and efficiently before your summer usage begins.
At Levco, we take pride in being a reliable, family-owned partner to our Connecticut communities. Preparing your tank now means you’re ready to enjoy all the versatility propane offers, safely and without interruption, through the beautiful spring and summer months ahead.