Is It Bad To Turn a Propane Tank On Its Side?

It’s not recommended to turn a propane tank on its side. When the tank is positioned horizontally, liquid propane could enter the pressure release valve or the service valve, which are designed only for gas, not liquid.

This misalignment could lead to a surge of liquid propane reaching the connected equipment, potentially causing malfunction or damage due to improper pressure regulation.

The typical pressure within a propane tank is around 100-200 pounds per square inch (psi), and most appliances are designed to receive gas at much lower pressures (about 0.5 psi). Therefore, maintaining the tank in an upright position ensures that only propane gas—and not liquid—exits the tank, keeping the system within safe operating parameters.

Continuing from there, if liquid propane were to escape the tank due to improper positioning, it could also cause the safety relief valve to activate prematurely or not function correctly. The safety relief valve is a critical feature designed to release propane gas if internal pressure exceeds safe levels, typically around 375 psi.

When the tank is on its side, this valve may not be able to vent gas effectively, leading to an increased risk of overpressure and potentially a hazardous situation.

Additionally, propane tanks have specific labeling and orientations that must be adhered to. These labels provide important information, including how the tank should be positioned. Ignoring these instructions can void warranties and lead to non-compliance with safety standards, which are set by industry bodies such as the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the Propane Education & Research Council.

Read related article: Do You Turn Off Propane Tank First? (Or The Appliance)

Why Propane Tanks Should Stay Upright

Propane tanks are a common sight in households and businesses, often used for heating, cooking, or powering certain equipment. These tanks are specifically designed to be used in an upright position for several important reasons related to their construction and function.

Design and Functionality of Propane Tanks

Propane tanks store propane in liquid form, under high pressure. While the liquid is stored at the bottom, the space above is filled with propane gas. The tank’s design includes a service valve at the top, which controls the release of gas, and a pressure relief valve, which serves as a safety feature to prevent too much pressure from building up inside the tank.

When a propane tank is upright, the gas can be drawn off from the top of the tank safely and consistently. This design ensures that only propane gas, and not liquid, reaches your appliances. The appliances connected to the propane tank—like a barbecue grill or a home heating system—are designed to burn propane gas, not liquid propane.

Risks of Turning a Propane Tank On Its Side

When a propane tank is turned on its side, several risks emerge:

1. Liquid Propane in the Valve: The biggest risk of tilting a propane tank is that liquid propane might flow into the service valve or the appliance itself. Since these are not designed to handle liquid propane, which is much denser and heavier than gas, this can lead to malfunction or severe damage to the connected equipment.
2. Overpressure: If liquid propane enters the system, it can cause excessive pressure build-ups. Unlike gas, which can compress and expand somewhat predictably, liquid propane expands significantly when it warms up. This expansion can lead to dangerously high pressures that could result in leaks or even the tank bursting if the pressure relief valve fails or is unable to handle the surge.
3. Improper Functioning of the Safety Valve: The safety relief valve, designed to release gas if the pressure inside the tank gets too high, may not function correctly if the tank is not upright. This valve’s effectiveness is compromised when submerged in or exposed to liquid propane, potentially leading to a failure in releasing gas which can prevent pressure from normalizing.

Keeping a propane tank upright is not just a best practice but a critical safety measure. The orientation ensures that the tank operates efficiently, safely, and within the safety regulations prescribed for these devices. Ignoring this could not only damage your appliances but also pose significant safety risks.

Technical Considerations

Propane tanks are under a lot of pressure – literally. Let’s break down how these tanks work and why keeping them upright is so crucial.

Understanding Pressure Inside Propane Tanks

Inside a propane tank, the pressure is typically between 100 and 200 pounds per square inch (psi). This high pressure keeps the propane in liquid form despite its natural inclination to be a gas at room temperature. Now, compare this to the pressure needs of most appliances that use propane, like a grill or a home heater, which require the propane delivered at a much lower pressure, usually around 0.5 psi. There’s a big difference between what’s inside the tank and what your appliances can handle.

Role of the Pressure Release Valve

The pressure release valve, or safety relief valve, is a critical part of the tank designed to keep you safe. It acts like a safety cap, releasing propane gas if the pressure inside the tank gets too high, preventing the tank from bursting. This valve is calibrated to open only when necessary, such as during unusually high pressure situations.

How the Valve Works and Its Compromises

When a propane tank is upright, the pressure release valve is positioned at the top where it can properly monitor the gas phase of propane. If the tank is on its side, liquid propane might reach this valve. Liquid propane doesn’t compress like gas does, so if it escapes, it doesn’t just puff out like a cloud of gas; it rushes out forcefully, which can be dangerous and is much harder to control.

If liquid reaches this valve and starts leaking out, not only is it unsafe, but it also compromises the effectiveness of the valve. The valve might not be able to close properly once opened by liquid pressure, leading to continuous leakage or failure to function in an actual overpressure situation.

Keeping the tank upright ensures that the valve is exposed only to gas and can operate as designed, maintaining safety and functionality. It’s a simple measure that plays a significant role in keeping the use of propane tanks safe.

Regulations and Standards

When it comes to handling propane tanks, there are strict guidelines and safety standards set by authoritative bodies, such as the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). These guidelines are designed to ensure that propane is used safely in homes and businesses. Here’s how these standards relate to keeping propane tanks upright and what could happen if these guidelines are not followed.

Safety Standards and Upright Positioning

The NFPA and other safety organizations specify that propane tanks should be kept upright. This guideline isn’t just a suggestion—it’s based on how safety features on the tanks, such as the pressure release valve, are designed to function. Keeping the tank upright ensures that the propane is released as a gas, not a liquid, which is essential for the safe operation of connected appliances and for preventing accidents.

Consequences of Ignoring Safety Guidelines

Ignoring these safety guidelines can lead to several serious issues:

1. Voided Warranties: Most propane tanks come with a manufacturer’s warranty that covers defects and certain damages. However, these warranties often require that the tank be used in accordance with safety guidelines, including keeping it upright. Using the tank in an unapproved manner, like laying it on its side, can void this warranty.
2. Safety Hazards: Using a propane tank in a position other than upright can create significant risks:
   • Leakage: Liquid propane could leak through the safety valve if it’s not sitting upright, creating a fire hazard.
   • Improper Pressure Release: The pressure release valve may not operate correctly if covered by liquid propane, leading to potential overpressure and even a tank explosion.
   • Damage to Appliances: Appliances designed to use propane gas can be damaged by liquid propane, leading to malfunction and safety risks.

Following the regulations and keeping your propane tank upright isn’t just about compliance; it’s about maintaining safety and ensuring that all equipment works as it should. Ignoring these rules not only risks accidents and equipment damage but also legal liabilities and regulatory penalties if safety standards are not met.

To Make a Conclusion

Turning a propane tank on its side is definitely a bad idea. The way propane tanks are built, they’re meant to stay upright to ensure they work safely and effectively. When placed on their sides, the tanks can cause all sorts of problems, from liquid propane getting into parts where only gas should go, to serious safety hazards like leaks or even explosions.

Plus, you could end up voiding the warranty on the tank and dealing with damaged appliances. To keep things safe and keep your equipment in good working order, it’s always best to follow the guidelines and keep your propane tank upright.