Guidelines to be aware of

propane tank Willow Springs, NC Homeowners who use propane and have a propane tank on their properties can rest assured that they are helping to keep themselves, their loved ones and their homes safe. That is because propane itself has a reputation for being incredibly safe.

Part of what makes the fuel so safe is the fact that there are fairly strict guides and regulations when it comes to using it. While it may come as a surprise to some people, one of those regulations is in regards to a propane tank’s paint job.

What’s the deal with painting your propane tank?

If, for whatever reason, you are not happy with the natural color of your propane tank and feel like painting it, feel free to do so. However, you can only use certain colors and certain types of paint as a safety precaution.

As instructed by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 58, you should only use light colors such as white, silver or a light gray if you are going to paint your propane tank. That is, unless you live in an exceptionally cold area.

Using a dark paint color on your tank increases the chances of the tank absorbing heat, which can potentially make the fuel inside expand to a dangerous degree. When gas expands too much your tank’s safely valve can open, giving fuel the chance to escape. This can cause a gas leak and, in extreme situations, a gas leak can lead to a fire.

You can usually find paint that is designated for painting a propane tank at a standard hardware store. You can also use metal paint that protects against rust, spray paint or paint rollers.

Additional safety precautions for homeowners with propane tanks

Now you know how you can paint your propane tank in a way that will help ensure your safety.

Of course there is more to know regarding safety and your propane tank, including what to do in the event of a propane leak.

If you think you are at risk of a propane leak (which will smell like rotten eggs) you should:

Put out any potential sources of ignition such as candles and cigarettes, stop using any cell phones, appliances and light switches and then evacuate the area immediately.
If it is safe enough to do so, close the supply valve on your propane tank. This is usually located under the tank’s dome cover.
When you are a safe distance away from the source of the gas leak, contact your propane provider as well as emergency services.
Do not return to the site of the leak until a service technician or an emergency personnel has given you the okay to do so.

When you need a new propane tank come to K.B. Johnson

K.B. Johnson Oil & Gas can help both home and business owners here in North Carolina help find the propane tank that will work best for you. We offer propane tank services throughout Wake, Johnston, Harnett, Eastern Lee and Eastern Chatham Counties. Our customers can either purchase or lease a tank from us.

Contact K.B. Johnson today to hear more about our selection of propane tanks as well as our propane delivery services.