Top Factors to Consider Before Burying a Propane Tank

July 31, 2025

Underground Propane Tank Installation Services in South Florida

Thinking about installing a buried propane tank on your property? Whether you’re building a new home or upgrading your energy systems, burying a propane tank offers a clean, low-visibility solution for long-term fuel storage. But before you break ground, there are a few essential factors to evaluate—from installation logistics to ongoing safety and cost considerations.

Here’s what to know before moving forward with an in-ground propane tank system.

Table of Contents

Important Things to Consider Before Burying a Propane Tank

Underground propane tanks can be a great investment, but only when properly planned. Below are the top seven considerations to weigh before scheduling your installation.

1. Your Needs

Start by identifying how much propane you actually use. Do you power multiple systems, such as a gas stove, pool heater, or backup generator? If so, you’ll need a larger tank (typically 500 to 1,000 gallons) to avoid frequent refueling.

Tank size should reflect:

Number of propane appliances
Frequency of use
Climate (colder areas require more fuel storage)
Generator or whole-home backup system demand

Knowing your energy needs will help you and your technician choose the right tank size and avoid unnecessary installation upgrades down the road.

2. Aesthetics

One of the biggest perks of a buried propane tank is that it’s out of sight. Unlike above-ground models, in-ground tanks are hidden beneath your yard, enhancing your landscaping and curb appeal.

You’ll only see a small dome on the surface, which allows for maintenance and refills. If visual appearance is a priority—especially for front yards, gardens, or pool areas—a buried tank may be the better fit.

3. Safety Issues

Propane is a safe and highly regulated fuel, but underground tanks do require specific safety measures:

Tanks must be buried at the correct depth and with corrosion-resistant coatings.
All systems need proper venting and pressure regulation.
The location must comply with setback distances from structures and utilities.
Annual inspections are recommended for long-term integrity.

Be sure to hire a licensed expert who understands local permitting and code requirements. Our team provides both indoor gas installation and outdoor gas installation services to ensure complete system safety.

4. Cost

Installing an underground propane tank costs more upfront than an above-ground option due to the additional expenses of excavation, permitting, and longer labor hours. However, many homeowners find the benefits outweigh the cost.

Cost factors include:

Tank size and material
Soil conditions and digging complexity
Local permitting fees
Add-ons like protective liners or concrete pads

Ask for a clear, line-item quote before installation so you can compare pricing and plan for long-term maintenance, such as gas appliance hookup or fuel delivery.

5. Installation Time

Burying a propane tank isn’t a one-day project. Installation involves several stages:

Site assessment and utility marking
Excavation and soil prep
Tank placement and line hookups
Inspections and backfilling

Depending on weather conditions, permits, and the complexity of your project, the entire process can take anywhere from a few days to over a week. Planning ahead can help avoid delays, especially if you’re coordinating propane with a backup generator replacement or home construction.

6. Location

Where you bury your propane tank matters; choosing the wrong spot can create long-term headaches or even violate code.

Key location guidelines:

Must be accessible by propane delivery trucks
Should be placed away from tree roots, retaining walls, and other underground utilities
Needs to meet minimum clearance distances from buildings, driveways, and property lines
Should avoid areas prone to flooding or soil erosion

A certified installer will help determine the best layout for both safety and efficiency. This is especially important when connecting the tank to indoor or outdoor gas systems.

7. Choose a Trustworthy Team

This isn’t a DIY job. Improper installation can lead to leaks, corrosion, or long-term property damage. That’s why it’s critical to hire a trusted propane professional who:

Is licensed and insured in your area, and has extensive experience
Follows NFPA and local building codes
Offers warranties on equipment and workmanship
Provides maintenance, inspection, and repair services

In South Florida, homeowners trust Reliable Power Systems for safe, code-compliant underground propane tank installation services backed by years of local experience.

Underground Propane Tank Sizes

Once you’ve decided on an in-ground installation, the next step is choosing the right tank size. Most residential underground propane tanks fall into one of three categories:

250-gallon tank – Ideal for homes using propane for a few appliances (e.g., water heater, fireplace)
500-gallon tank – Best for average-sized homes using propane for heating, cooking, or small generators
1,000-gallon tank – Recommended for large homes or properties using propane for multiple systems, including generator repair and whole-home energy

Each tank type comes with depth and clearance requirements, which your installer will calculate during the site evaluation.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Underground Propane Tanks

Before committing to a buried propane tank, it’s important to understand both the advantages and the potential trade-offs.

Benefits:

Aesthetically Pleasing: Keeps your yard clutter-free with only a small dome visible above ground.
Protected from Weather: Underground tanks are insulated from extreme heat, wind, and other elements that can affect above-ground tanks.
Long-Term Property Value: A clean, hidden energy system can boost your home’s appeal to buyers.

Drawbacks:

Higher Upfront Cost: Excavation, permits, and labor make buried tanks more expensive to install.
Maintenance Access: While rare, underground leaks or issues can be harder to detect and fix.
Soil Limitations: Some properties may not have the space, access, or drainage necessary for proper underground placement.

If you’re unsure whether a buried tank is right for your property, speak with a professional. They can walk you through all options, including safety evaluations and compatibility with your current systems.

Underground Propane Tank Installation and Maintenance Services

When you’re ready to move forward with a buried propane tank, trust a team that handles every detail—from design to ongoing maintenance. At Reliable Power Systems, we offer full-service underground propane tank installation tailored to your property, usage needs, and long-term energy goals.

Our services include: