Underground Propane Tanks

Many homeowners prefer not to see their propane tank on their property. The common solution is the installation of an underground propane tank. Today, many propane companies offer professional installation of underground propane tanks. Underground propane tanks are specifically designed for underground use and generally range from 250 to 1,000 gallon capacities.

During new home construction, the best time to plan an underground propane tank installation is during the design phase. In the design phase, your local propane company representative will work closely with you and your contractor/architect. As noted in the aboveground tank section above, it makes sense to include your propane tank in your building plans for approval at the same time your residential building permit is obtained. This generally saves both time and money as a separate propane building permit may be required at a later date.

In the design phase, your local propane service representative will suggest a location on your property to install your underground propane tank. The location considerations include required spacing from structures as per local fire/building codes, the propane gas-line installation, terrain considerations for drainage as well as filling access for the propane delivery truck. Other issues to be addressed during your design phase include leasing or purchasing your propane tank and determining the party that is responsible for propane gas line trenching and excavation work at the tank site. These site preparation expenses are typically paid by the homeowner. In most cases, since your building contractor will have a backhoe/trenching equipment on site to build your home, the same building contractor will typically provide the best price for trenching and excavation services. At the time of the underground propane tank installation, your propane supplier and your contractor will work together on timing and the various technical issues involving your underground propane tank.

If a homeowner wishes to install an underground propane tank at a home without existing propane service, the process is generally more time consuming and expensive. The first step is to contact your propane supplier to inquire about the local approval process and the cost to install an underground propane tank. The next step is identifying a local contractor for trenching and excavation. Your propane supplier and contractor will then work together to coordinate the installation of your new underground propane tank.

Your propane supplier is your best resource to provide advice and answer your questions regarding leasing or owning your propane tank.