U-Haul Propane Safety & Security

Store Your Propane Tank Outside

You should never bring your propane tank indoors. All usage, inspections, storage, and refills should be done outside.

Keep Your Propane Tank Upright

An upright position will limit the chances of damage or leaks. We recommend the EZGO Tank Stabilizer or the Tankfoot to secure your tank during use and storage, and Tank Ties to secure your tank during transport.

Check for Leaks

Wipe or spray your tank with a soapy water solution to identify any leaks. If there is a leak, then bubbles will start to form. If you see bubbles, turn off the tank valve and disconnect the appliances. Wait for a few minutes, then reconnect the tank and test for leaks again. If bubbles continue to form, have your tank inspected at U-Haul.

Stay Aware

Propane is naturally odorless, so a rotten egg smell is added to alert people to leaks. If you notice this smell, then turn off the tank valve, disconnect any appliances, move the tank away from any open flames, and have the tank inspected by U-Haul.

Be Cautious

Never smoke nor light an open flame around propane.

Do Not Leave Your Propane Tank In Your Car

Leaving your propane tank inside of an enclosed vehicle will cause the pressure relief valve to open and release propane into the space. If this happens, you should immediately remove the tank from your vehicle and place it in a shaded area to cool. If the relief valve continues to emit propane, call your local fire department.

Empty New Tanks Before Use

Air gets trapped inside of a propane tank during its manufacturing process. If this air isn’t removed from the tank before filling, then it will both dilute the rotten egg smell of the safety additive and increase the chance of a hazardous situation. Fortunately, all empty propane tanks sold at U-Haul are purged ahead of sale.

Have Your Tank Requalified

Propane tanks older than 12 years must be requalified by a certified professional before being filled. After requalification, your propane tank will be good for another 5 years before needing to be requalified once again.

Please Note: U-Haul does not requalify tanks, but propane suppliers like AmeriGas, Ferrellgas, and Suburban Propane can.

Ensure That Your Tank Is Equipped With an OPD Valve

Propane tanks that are 40 lbs or smaller must be equipped with an Overfill Protection Device (OPD valve) in order to be filled. Horizontal tanks (ex. forklift tanks) and portable tanks larger than 40 lbs generally do not have OPD valves.