According to the US Energy Information Administration, more than 10% of households in the United States rely on propane as their fuel source. Whether building a new home that will use propane or making the switch to propane, you will need to choose between an above ground or underground tank. Understanding the pros and cons of each can help you make a decision about which is right for you.

Propane is a hydrocarbon gas that is liquified through pressure. Propane gas is a non-toxic, clean-burning fuel that is an excellent choice for households. More than at-home use, propane can be used in farming, business, and different industries. Propane can be used for:

• Pest control
• Power up farm equipment
• Power up irrigation pumps
• Livestock house heating
• Heating greenhouses
• Power equipment, such as forklifts and electric welders
• Fuel gas for fireplace
• Fuel for barbeque grills
• A backup electrical generator
• Vehicle fuel

Propane tank sizes vary from 20 pounds to 1,000-gallon tanks. The size difference is quite significant. Yet, many homes can get by with 50-gallon tanks.

Above Ground Tanks

The most significant disadvantage to an above ground propane tank is that it can be an eyesore. A large propane tank is difficult to hide, and it can interrupt the beauty of your lawn’s landscape. However, above ground propane tanks have their advantages.

1. Above ground tanks are less expensive.
2. They are easily accessible to refill or check the amount of propane gas inside the tank.
3. They incur lower installation and maintenance fees.
4. They are easy to install and secure in place.

Underground Tanks

For homeowners who must abide by HOA design standards or who do not want to see an above ground tank, the biggest advantage is obvious: an underground tank is hidden and unseen. Another benefit to an underground tank is that they are temperature controlled because they are less exposed to extreme heat and cold.

Aside from their notable advantages, underground tanks do have disadvantages.

1. Underground tanks will cost more because of the installation necessary.

Before an underground tank can be installed, you will need to account for the cost of excavation, labor, and anodes. All of this work requires extra workers and equipment, which will increase the initial investment cost for your underground propane tank.

1. Before installation, you will have to “prepare your property for excavation” per government policies. Waiting for certified permits is time-consuming.
2. If your home has a septic system, you will have to contact a septic company to dig the hole for the underground propane tank. This cost will be on you.
3. An underground tank is less accessible. Thus, it is harder to check the amount of fuel inside the tank. It is also more difficult to refill.

Both above ground and underground propane tanks have their advantages and disadvantages. In the end, underground tanks are initially more expensive due to the upfront costs of installation. However, once those costs are out of the way, underground tanks are generally the better option for most homeowners.

Quality Propane, Inc. is a family-owned and operated company. We provide value-added service first and foremost to clients in Charlotte, North Carolina, and the surrounding areas. We offer propane stoves, propane heaters, and much more for commercial, residential, agricultural, and industrial clients throughout the Piedmont area of North Carolina. Our locally owned and operated propane company was founded with a focus on being the type of company that can take a commodity product business and turn it into a value-added service company.

Call us today for all of your propane gas needs.