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More than 10% of households in the United States use propane as their fuel source. There are many uses and benefits to propane and if you are considering making the switch, you will need to choose between an above-ground or underground tank.

Can’t decide between the two? We’re here to help. Here is a comparison of the pros and cons of underground and above-ground propane tanks.

Propane Tanks

Propane is a hydrocarbon gas liquefied through pressure. Propane gas is a clean-burning fuel that is non-toxic. This makes it a great choice for most households as it means there’s less to worry about in case a leak goes unnoticed for a while.

Uses of Propane

You can use propane gas at home, in farming, business, and in different industries. You can use it:

  • As fuel gas for fireplace
  • As fuel for barbecue grills
  • As a backup electrical generator
  • For pest control
  • To power up farm equipment
  • To power up irrigation pumps
  • Livestock house heating
  • Heating greenhouses
  • Power equipment like forklifts and electric welders
  • Vehicle fuel

Propane tank sizes vary from 20 pounds to 1000-gallon tanks. If you’re looking to use propane for your home, 50 gallons of small propane tanks work.

There are two types of propane tanks; underground and above-ground propane tanks. Each has its own advantages and limitations. Let’s dwell more into that in the section below.

Advantages of Above Ground Propane Tank

Above-ground propane tanks are less expensive. This is because you’ll only be paying for the tank itself, which varies depending on the size you want for your household.

The most important advantage of the above-ground propane tank is its accessibility. Since the tank is above ground, the installation process will take less amount of time. This also makes it easy to refill or check for the amount of propane gas left.

What’s great about above-ground propane tanks is that there will be a smaller cost for installation and long-term use.

Because your propane supplier can access it with ease, propane tank maintenance fees will also be cheaper, not to mention it’ll be easier for them to do so, too.

As for the safety of above-ground propane tanks, your geographic location plays a key role.

All you need to do is place these tanks in a secure location and you’ll guarantee their safety. Having them installed in a high place is ideal since it protects them against disasters such as flooding.

It’s also easy to secure them in place. Anchoring cables do well in preventing these tanks from moving around in the event of an earthquake or hurricane. In regards to the former, it’s best to place them on a solid foundation to prevent further disasters.

Drawbacks of Above Ground Propane Tanks

The main disadvantage of getting an above-ground tank is that it can be an eyesore. A large propane tank outside may destroy the beauty of your outdoor garden.

Above-ground propane tanks also take up a lot of space in your property, which you could instead use for other recreational luxuries, like pools or gazebos. It could also become a challenge when you’re doing maintenance for your property. It could get in the way of the kids playing or your yard work.

Another factor is its vulnerability to humans. Above-ground tanks are usually targeted for vandalism. Further, if you live near a road, possible vehicle accidents endanger the propane tank.

Advantages of Underground Propane Tank

Have an issue with the visual appeal of above-ground tanks? Then consider underground tanks. You get to hide the tank and get more access to your property.

The best benefit of underground propane tanks is that they’re temperature controlled. This is because they are less exposed to extreme heat or winter cold.

Extreme temperatures can impact the propane in the tank, and being underground protects the fuel from the effects of the environment.

If a leak were to occur, an underground tank is safer. The propane gas will escape into the soil or local water. This is better than having the fuel leak in the air, which could cause a fire.

It’s worth noting that even if the gas leaks into the soil or local water, it won’t harm it in any way. As mentioned above, propane is a non-toxic fuel option, and is also insoluble in water.

Disadvantages of Underground Propane Tank

The physical propane tank will cost the same regardless of what type you choose. The extra cost comes with the installation of the tank.

When you opt for an underground tank, calculate the cost for excavation, labor, and anodes.

Tank excavation requires getting contractors to make sure that you have a firm foundation. They also ensure the security of the tank in its location.

This task requires extra workers and equipment, increasing the initial investments you need to make to be able to use the tank.

It’s also important to place sacrificial anodes around the propane tank. These prevent the tank from corroding while it’s buried underground. Since you’ll have no way of telling how the tank is faring, these anodes are necessary for monitoring the tank and fuel chemistry.

There’s also the issue of preparing your property for excavation. This is time-consuming and can cost you more since you’ll need to secure permits from the local government. Here is a rundown on the things to take note of when you opt to buy an underground propane tank:

  • Get proper permits before excavation
  • Have experts conduct arrangements and safety checks before excavation
  • If your home has a septic tank, contact a septic company to dig the hole for the underground propane tank

While it may be more expensive upfront, remember that most of your initial expenses only happen once when getting an underground propane tank. Once you get over that, it can prove to be the better option.

Which Propane Tank Is Right for You?

Getting a propane tank for your home need not be a chore. Decide between above ground and underground tanks by taking a look at the guide above.

Get your household a propane tank and reap the benefits of propane today!

After comparing the pros and cons of the above-ground and underground propane tank, have you decided which to get? If so, go ahead and place an order now. Contact us and let us know how we can be of service.