Underground Propane Tank Trench Site & Excavation Process

April 20, 2021 – , ,

A basic propane tank trench and excavation process prepares for the actual propane installation and takes only a couple of hours. It can usually be booked within 7-10 days, depending on the complexity, weather and technician availability. A basic propane tank installation package will include the materials to install your tank, tank bases/blocks, gas line required to install the tank, fittings to hook up to the gas line, and regulators.

  • Preparing Your Indoor Appliances: If Paraco is not installing your indoor appliances, make sure all your propane appliances are fully installed and vented.  If Paraco is not converting your indoor appliances to be used with propane, make sure they are converted.
  • Clear A Path:  Make sure there is a clear path – at least 4 feet wide – for a tank mover and bulk truck to access the location. The hose on a bulk truck can reach up to 50 feet from where the truck is parked. If there are any obstacles that may cause a delay to the installation such as overhead wires, let us know ahead of time so we can help and plan around them. Additional clearance may be needed for crane trucks to get close to the final tank location. This will depend on the propane tank size.
  • Preparing the Ground: This is the trench site – where your underground propane tank will go. It should have a concrete pad to provide a firm base. The ground must be level and adhere to specific clearances, depending on the size of tank you need.
  • 420-lb or Smaller Cylinder or Vertical-Style Cylinders:  Designed for auxiliary heating like water heaters, fireplaces, pools and spa heaters — the clearance must be at least 3 feet away from windows and doors and 10 feet away from any sources of ignition and air intakes. This type of tank can be placed against a building.
  • Horizontal-Style Cylinders: Ideal for residential heating. The clearance must be at least 10 feet from your home, any building or structure, the property line, windows and doors, and any sources of ignition and air intakes; like heat pumps and air conditioners.
  • Complete the trenching:  Trenching must be 18” deep or 24” deep if under a driveway, with no right angles. Be sure to complete trenching before the installation. To stay safe and avoid damage to other utility lines, contact your local utilities before starting any excavation.
  • Make sure you’re home:  We strongly encourage you to be home during the installation. Our technicians will be sharing tips and instructions with you. And we’ll need an adult with signing authority to be present and sign the installation inspection form.

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