After three heatwaves already this summer, it’s fair to say we’ve all become used to keeping an eye on the weather forecast. Although temperatures are expected to ease briefly, forecasters believe warmer-than-average conditions are likely to return before long.
While most of us are focused on keeping our homes and families comfortable, it’s also worth taking a few minutes to give you installation a seasonal check. Bulk LPG storage tanks are built to cope with the UK’s changing climate, including prolonged spells of hot weather. However, a few simple maintenance checks now can help ensure your LPG supply continues running safely and efficiently throughout the summer.
Start with a quick walk around your tank
Summer is the perfect time to spend a few minutes checking your LPG installation. A quick walk around your tank while you’re mowing the lawn or weeding the flower beds is often all it takes to spot anything that needs attention.
As gardens flourish and outdoor spaces get more use, it’s easy for long grass, overgrown shrubs, or stored garden equipment to gradually encroach on the area around your tank without you even noticing.
To keep your LPG system operating safely, make sure the space around your LPG tank remains clear of clutter and well maintained. Cut back any grass, weeds or vegetation that has grown too close, and if you’re using a weedkiller, always choose a non-chlorate-based one. Chlorate weedkillers can make dried vegetation more combustible, so they’re not suitable for use around LPG installations.
It’s also important not to use the space around your tank for storage. Garden furniture, plant pots, bicycles, bins, and other household items should be kept well away from the tank and any exposed pipework. Keeping the area clear helps maintain good ventilation and allows the tank to dissipate heat naturally during warmer weather.
While you’re checking your tank, take a moment to locate the ECV (emergency control valve). Make sure it’s clearly visible and easy to access, so you’ll know exactly where it is should you ever need to turn off your gas supply in an emergency.
Keeping the area clear isn’t just about appearance. Good ventilation helps your LPG installation operate as intended, while easy access allows our delivery drivers and engineers to work safely whenever they visit.
Why warm weather isn’t usually a problem
One of the questions we’re often asked during hot weather is whether high temperatures affect LPG tanks.
The simple answer is yes – but exactly as they’re designed to do.
LPG, (liquified petroleum gas,) naturally expands as it warms. This is a normal part of how LPG behaves and is one of the reasons why LPG bulk storage tanks are never filled to their maximum capacity. Tanks are typically filled to a maximum of 85%, leaving enough space inside for the LPG to expand safely as temperatures rise.
Your bulk LPG tank is built with this expansion in mind and includes a range of important safety features to help manage changes in pressure. These features are designed to automatically maintain safe operating conditions, meaning your LPG system can continue to work reliably even when the UK experiences a heatwave.
Your tank has built-in safety features
Your LPG system is designed with multiple safety features to help protect your home and keep your energy supply running safely, whatever the weather brings. During periods of very hot weather, it’s useful to understand how these safety devices work and what to do if they ever activate.
As temperatures rise, the LPG inside your bulk storage tank naturally expands, which can cause the pressure within the tank to increase. To manage this safely, every bulk LPG tank is fitted with a pressure relief valve (PRV). This important safety device is designed to automatically release a small amount of gas if the pressure inside the tank reaches a level where it needs to be reduced.
The PRV is there as a protective measure and is designed to operate safely and without any action from you. While it’s uncommon, during periods of extreme heat you may occasionally hear a brief release of gas as the valve does its job and helps maintain safe pressure levels within the tank.
If you notice your PRV has activated, it’s important to keep a safe distance from the LPG tank. Do not touch, cover or attempt to reset the valve yourself, but contact your supplier on their emergency number for advice and guidance.
Most LPG installations are also fitted with an UPSO (Under Pressure Shut Off) and an OPSO (Over Pressure Shut Off) valve, which are designed to detect faults in the system, for instance if the gas pressure rises above or falls below a pre-set limit. The OPSO automatically shuts off the gas supply if the pressure exceeds a safe level and can also indicate a more serious problem. Never attempt to reset the OPSO. This should only be done by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
At Robinsons Gas, your safety is our priority. Our LPG systems are designed with your protection in mind but knowing how these safety features work gives you extra confidence and peace of mind.
Take a few minutes to check your LPG pipework
Your LPG system is made up of more than just your storage tank. The pipework that connects your tank to your home plays an essential role in delivering a safe and reliable supply of fuel, and it’s important to keep it in good condition throughout the year.
LPG pipework is designed to withstand the changing UK weather, from freezing winter temperatures to the warmer conditions we experience during the summer months. However, during periods of prolonged hot weather, above-ground pipework can become extremely warm to the touch as it’s exposed to direct sunlight and higher temperatures.
While this is normal and your installation is designed to cope with these conditions, taking a few minutes to check your LPG pipework can help spot any issues early and ensure your system continues to operate safely.
When carrying out a visual check, look out for any signs of accidental damage or wear and tear such as dents, cracks or anything that may have impacted the pipework, and loose brackets, supports or fixings.
Know what normal looks like
Your tank may feel warm on a sunny day. That’s expected.
You may hear occasional sounds as the system operates – that’s also normal.
What isn’t normal is if you smell gas, hear an unusual hissing sound, notice dead or dying vegetation in the surrounding area, or suspect there may be a leak.
If you notice anything unusual, don’t ignore it, and act quickly. If it is safe to do so, turn off the gas supply at the tank, move away from the area, avoid any flames or sources of ignition, and contact your supplier immediately for advice.
Simple ways to keep cool during a heatwave
Managing your LPG supply is only part of coping with a heatwave. Keeping your home cool can make a significant difference to your comfort.
Some simple ways to reduce indoor temperatures include:
- Closing curtains or blinds on windows that receive direct sunlight
- Opening windows early in the morning or later in the evening when outdoor temperatures are lower, and keeping them closed during the height of the day to keep hot air out
- Creating airflow by opening windows on opposite sides of your home
- Wearing lightweight clothing and drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
If you use a fan, placing a bowl of ice in front of the airflow can help create a cool breeze without increasing energy use significantly.
Have a question about your LPG supply?
Whether you have a question about your LPG tank, need advice during hot weather or simply want reassurance that everything is operating as it should, we’re here to help.
Our knowledgeable customer service team works alongside our own in-house engineering team, giving you access to expert advice and technical support whenever you need it.
If you have any concerns about your LPG installation, we’re only a phone call away.
Get in touch on 01377 238177.