We are often asked how long propane can be stored before it goes bad. The simple answer is propane can last for decades. As a matter of fact, it is one of the most storage-friendly, stable and resilient energy sources around. With no expiration date, propane won’t degrade or lose its potency over time, so its shelf life is extremely long. To be clear on the term “shelf life”, it is defined as “the length of time a commodity may be stored without becoming unfit for use, consumption, or sale” (Wikipedia). Unlike diesel’s one-year shelf life and gasoline’s three- to six-month shelf life, propane can be stored indefinitely so it is highly effective and convenient for both residential and commercial sectors, and the ideal partner in emergency preparedness plans.
You’re in great hands with propane since propane cannot degrade. Residential uses include, but aren’t limited to home heat, fueling appliances, powering generators, pool heat, outdoor living, gardening, barbecues and grills, and more. Commercial uses are plentiful. Just think agriculture, building and construction, restaurants, forklift, autogas, BBQ exchange, and industry/manufacturing.
Moreover, the cylinders which propane is stored also have an extremely long shelf life. This is why propane cylinders are required to be recertified periodically by a qualified propane professional. Getting 30 or 40 years out of a stored propane tank is quite feasible when cylinder maintenance is properly adhered to.
A few examples of how propane beats other fuels hands down in convenience and longevity are home heat, portable cylinders used for BBQ and gardening/landscaping, space heat, forklift, autogas and emergency preparedness.
Oil-fired heating systems are large, dirty beasts that take up valuable real estate and require annual maintenance. The heating oil itself can become unsafe if it has been stored for too long. What is “too long”? Think 18 months or less, and that all depends on how well it’s been stored to begin with.
BBQ cylinders are commonplace. They’re portable, convenient, easily refillable and storable. When stored correctly, they can stay put for years and don’t require change outs or additives.
Emergency preparedness can mean propane in portable, small cylinders up to and including 1,000 gallon ones. Items like space heat and generators supported by diesel or gasoline are smelly, can create messy leaks and stains, and must be changed out regularly. But not propane! Its indefinite shelf life makes it a perfect fuel for portable use or robust standby generator systems that power everything in a home.
With all the convenience, versatility and peace of mind benefits, It’s no wonder residences and businesses love propane. You can learn more about all the great things propane can do for you by visiting our Residential and Commercial pages. We’ve got you covered at Paraco, fueling your every day.