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[mgw44]

So, are there any guidelines as to how close I can locate a wood boiler to a 500 gallon propane tank?  I haven't been able to find anything yet.  I have a space issue but I don't want to cause unnecessary risk.  The boiler is not a pressurized system so I would expect it doesn't have to be too far away.  Any suggestions?

mgw

[willieG]

i would suggest you call your propane company or your home insurance and pose the question. I don know the distance changes with the size of the tank in my neck of the woods (ontario canada) i think it would be best to get the info (or direction where to obtain it) from your insurance company or your propane dealer (and ask for a copy in print to save in case of ever a claim)

[Ridgekid]

Most OWB Manufacturers put a "safe distance" plate on the outside of the unit stating mininum distance. In your case you may want to consider "what if" you develop a propane leak factor. We don't know exactly what your limited space consists of, buy keep in mind fire and gas fumes don't mix.

And of course WilleG brings out good points too.

[mgw44]

I haven't yet considered a propane leak.  Great point.  The propane tank will be down wind (prevailing wind) of the wood boiler.  I'm thinking they should be at least 50 feet away but that is just a wild guess.

[RSI]

Mine is about 15 feet away. The gas company never said anything about it.

[willieG]

i did read a members quote on here that said he had called his insurance company and the propane company he dealt with and they both said 10 feet but each  insurance company and propane dealer could very well have their own rules and regulations..i say call and be covered (and likely safe)

[mgw44]

Insurance didn't have a policy.  The propane company advised 25 feet.  It didn't seem to be a big deal to either of them.

[Neal]

mine is probably 50' away down wind.  I didn't want it too close and I wanted easy access for my propane company.  So it is seprated by a driveway plus a few feet on either side of that as well.  I didn't check with the propane company but I made them aware I was putting a wood furnace in. 

[juddspaintballs]

A propane leak isn't much of a concern since propane is heavier than air and will sink to the ground.  The danger area of an OWB is the chimney and loading door, which are both usually at least 12" off of the ground.  Don't put your tank and OWB in a pit and you'll be safe.  The OWB isn't likely to overheat the tank to the point the burst disc fails even if the entire OWB became engulfed in flames. 

The risk is extremely low, which is why the propane company probably doesn't even care.  They are probably only quoting 25' like they would for any structure on the property--based on some requirement someone has placed on them. 


But do what your insurance and gas company says.