Easy Storage Solutions From A to Z

Gas Grills and Propane Tanks

As in: The giant grill pushed up against the house. And the spare propane tank you tiptoe past.

The fix: 
Disconnect the propane tank and wheel your gas grill into the garage. While your gas grill will take a cold-weather hiatus, the propane tank must stay outside year-round (propane is impervious to heat or cold). “It’s against the fire code to place a propane tank larger than one pound in an enclosed area,” says Michael Caldarera, vice president of regulatory and technical services for the National Propane Gas Association. “It’s possible for a leak in a tank to cause an explosion.” This flammable gas must be kept at least five feet from your house, according to the fire code.

After detaching the tank, test it for leaks. “Close the valve, then sponge the valve and the nozzle [where it attaches to the grill] with soapy water,” says Caldarera. “If the liquid foams or bubbles, check that the valve connection is tight. If it is, you probably have a leak. Call your dealer for disposal instructions.”