🔥 Texas Propane Directory

Propane is one of the safest fuels available when handled properly — but improper storage creates real risks. A few simple rules keep your family safe, protect your tank from damage, and ensure your propane is ready when you need it.

The Golden Rules of Propane Storage

• Always store outdoors — never inside a home, garage, basement, or enclosed vehicle
• Store upright — tanks must stand vertically to keep the pressure relief valve above the liquid propane
• Keep away from heat sources — minimum 10 feet from grills, furnaces, water heaters, and open flames
• Keep the valve closed — turn clockwise until fully closed when not in use
• Keep the cap on — the plastic safety cap protects the valve from dirt and accidental contact

Why You Can't Store Propane Indoors

Propane is heavier than air. If a valve were to develop a slow leak while stored in a basement or garage, propane gas would pool near the floor and accumulate until it reached an ignition source — a water heater pilot light, a furnace igniter, or even a light switch spark. This is why every fire code prohibits storing propane cylinders inside occupied structures.

"Outside" means detached from the home and in an area with natural ventilation. A covered porch or open-sided shed is acceptable. A sealed, attached garage is not.

Temperature Limits

Propane tanks are designed to handle a wide temperature range, but there are limits:

In Texas and New Mexico summers, direct sun on a dark-painted tank can push surface temperatures above 120°F even on a 95°F day. Keep your tanks shaded — under a patio cover, in a ventilated tank box, or on the shaded side of the house.

Long-Term Storage

If you're storing a tank for the off-season (winter for grillers, summer for heater owners):

• It's fine to store a partially full or full tank — propane doesn't degrade over time
• Check the valve for tightness before storing; apply soapy water and look for bubbles
• Keep the safety cap on and store upright on a flat, stable surface
• Inspect the tank and connections at the start of each season before using
• Do not store near road salt, fertilizers, or chemicals that accelerate corrosion

What Not to Do

• ❌ Don't store in a hot car — temperatures inside a parked car can exceed 130°F
• ❌ Don't store near electrical panels or outlets
• ❌ Don't stack tanks on top of each other
• ❌ Don't store a tank with a known leak — take it to a dealer immediately
• ❌ Don't use a tank that's been in a fire — have it inspected by a certified dealer before use
• ❌ Don't paint over the date stamp or regulatory markings

When to Retire a Tank

Propane cylinders have a service life. You should retire a tank if:

• It's more than 12 years past its manufacture date and hasn't been recertified
• There are significant rust spots, especially near the base or valve collar
• The valve is stuck, damaged, or won't close fully
• It's been in a fire or sustained a major impact
• It fails a leak test after tightening all connections

Old cylinders can be dropped off at propane dealers, hazardous waste collection events, or exchange program locations that accept worn tanks. Never put a propane tank in household trash or recycling.

Find a Propane Dealer Near You

If you need to have a tank inspected, recertified, or replaced, our directory can help you find a local propane dealer. Browse locations in Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Austin, Albuquerque, and more — or use the propane locations map.

Also see: How to Refill a Propane Tank and What Size Propane Tank Do I Need?