July 12, 2022
So, you’ve made the choice to use propane in your home? Smart decision – propane is a versatile, safe and cost-effective energy source. And preparing for your installation is quick and easy.
A basic installation takes only a couple of hours and can be booked within a few days, depending on the complexity, weather and our technician or Certified Partner’s availability. Your basic install package includes the materials to install your tank, tank bases/blocks, gas line required to install the tank (up to 10 feet from where the line enters the house), fittings to hook up to the gas line, and travel up to 80 kilometres each way.
Our experts have created the following preparation checklist to help make the process of installing your propane tank smooth and seamless.
- Ready your indoor appliances.
Make sure all your propane appliances are fully installed and vented, and a gas line has been installed to the exterior wall. Ensure all interior drywall housing the appliance is installed and the first coat of primer is applied. Once your appliances are installed, ensure your contactor’s pressure test tag is visible on all propane appliances.
If you live in British Columbia, you can install appliances after your propane tank installation. Your gas-fitter will complete the final connection.
All interior work is the responsibility of the customer. If you need assistance preparing your home or business, a local Certified Partner can install, repair, and service your propane appliances.
- Clear a path.
Clear your driveway and ensure pathways have been cleared at least 4 ft. wide for a tank mover and bulk truck to get to the tank location. The hose on a bulk truck can reach up to 80 ft. from where the truck is parked. If there are any obstacles that may cause a delay to your installation, such as overhead wires, fences or snow, let us know ahead of time. Larger tanks may need additional clearance for crane trucks to get close to the final tank location.
Always keep a clear path to and around your propane tank for safe, on-time service and delivery. Click here for winter delivery tips.
- Prepare the ground.
The area where your tank will go should have gravel, cement or a firm ground base and be no more than 75 ft. from where the delivery truck will be parked. The ground must be level and adhere to specific clearances depending on the size of tank you need.
How far from a home or building does a propane tank need to be installed?
For a 420-lb cylinder or vertical-style tank — our smallest permanent tank designed for auxiliary heating for water heaters, fireplaces, pools and heaters — the clearance must be a minimum of 3 feet away from windows and doors and 10 feet away from any sources of ignition and air intakes. This type of tank can be placed against a building.
For a 500 to 1,000 USWG horizontal-style tank — the clearance must be a minimum of 10 feet away from your home, any building or structure, the property line, windows and doors, and any sources of ignition and air intakes, including heat pumps and air conditioners.
Click here to find out what propane tank size will work best for your home.
- Complete the trenching.
Trenching needs to be 18” deep or 24” deep if under a driveway, with no right angles. Ensure the trench runs from the tank location to the gas line at the exterior wall. To stay safe and avoid hydro lines, contact your local utilities before you dig. If you need help with trenching, a Superior Propane service representative can help you find someone in your area.
- Make sure you are home.
Our technicians will be sharing tips and instructions, so it’s a good idea to be there during your installation. At the very least, we’ll need an adult with signing authority for your home to be present and sign the installation inspection form. - Schedule your tank installation.
Once the outside of your home or building is prepared, call 1-87SUPERIOR (1-877-873-7467) to schedule your tank installation. After the installation, the Technician will complete a final system check and test the propane appliances inside your home or building.
