Are buried unused propane tanks safe?

Why are underground propane tanks a problem?

Propane is highly flammable, an explosion could occur with a deteriorated tank or tank lines when an ignition source is present.   Note propane is a hazardous substance, which is not appealing to be stored in an abandoned vessel on any site.   Everything has a life span and metal in the ground rusts (rust never sleeps) so every tank by that measure must fail.   With abandoned propane tanks owners have no idea what the tank is constructed of and the lifespan or warranty. There are no warning alarms that the tank is failing.

Propane tanks are also an attractive nuance (there is a reason a fence is required around swimming pools because pools are a hazard and an attractive nuisance). Since underground propane tanks are extremely dangerous and flammable, full or empty, you should proceed with extreme caution. Many properties have abandoned inground propane tanks, which occurred when the tank was removed from service. Rarely or should I say really never is the tank empty as it is nearly impossible to time change of fuel source to the point that you burn off all propane. In short whatever appliance that runs on propane is likely needed and nobody is going to let the propane run out and then call to get the new gas service installed, which could take weeks. In addition, the empty gauge on a propane tank typically means 12% to 15% full.  

Why would someone abandon a propane tank?

Because it costs money to remove the liability associated with these tanks and owners defer this to something they will get to. You have to understand if you stop using propane you are converting to another fuel source which means spending money. Propane tank gets cut from the budget.

Abandoned propane tanks commonly become an issue when a property is being sold and the buyer becomes aware of the tank.     Propane is a hazardous substance and no buyer wants to buy a property with a hazardous storage tank they have no intention of utilizing the tank.

Curren has been dealing with tanks for over 25 years, we commonly say the people we know are retiring we know no one that was ever involved with propane (sales or service) that would buy a property with an abandoned propane tank. There are stories of situations gone bad with propane tanks, that are not going to be discussed, just know the danger is real and abandoned propane tanks should not be downplayed.

Now propane tanks can be properly abandoned, by faring off the remaining propane and opening the tank and filling with an inert foam.   Of course the tank can also be flared, valve bung opened, the tank removed from the ground and transported off site and the excavation backfilled. This is of course with obtaining local permits and providing a report of closure.

Propane Tank Closure

Is inhaling propane harmful?

Normally odorless, propane gas is infused with chemicals to give it a foul smell so it can be detected when a leak is present. Inhaling propane is dangerous, leading to hypoxia which is low levels of oxygen in your body tissues. It causes symptoms like confusion, restlessness, difficulty breathing, rapid heart rate, and bluish skin or even death. Some warning signs of illness caused by breathing in the gas include a burning sensation in the nose, coughing, dizziness or lightheadedness, headache, and weakness.

If you want expert advice, you hire experts. With over 25 years of experience and thousands upon thousands of completed projects, Curren Environmental is the professional you can rely upon.

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