Don’t Let Poor Fuel Storage Turn Your Generator Into a Safety Hazard – Essential Guidelines for Denton County Property Owners

When severe weather strikes Denton County, your backup generator becomes a lifeline for maintaining power to essential systems. However, improper fuel storage can transform this critical safety equipment into a dangerous liability. Understanding the specific requirements for propane and natural gas storage ensures your generator system operates safely while protecting your property and family.

Understanding Fuel Storage Regulations in Denton County

Denton County property owners must comply with multiple layers of safety regulations when storing generator fuels. The Fire Marshal’s Office conducts inspections on commercial businesses as well as high hazard operations and fire protection systems in the unincorporated areas of Denton County, Texas per International Fire Code 2015 edition and amendments as outlined in the Denton County Fire Code. The Fire Code is intended to meet the minimum standards and requirements to reduce the risk of loss in property and life and provide the citizens with safe environments to live, work, and play.

Texas state law also provides specific protections for homeowners installing standby generators. Generators must be powered by natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas, diesel fuel, biodiesel fuel, or hydrogen, and all liquefied petroleum gas fuel line connections must be installed in accordance with rules and standards promulgated and adopted by the Railroad Commission of Texas and other applicable governmental health, safety, electrical, and building codes.

Propane Storage Safety Requirements

Propane storage for residential generators requires strict adherence to NFPA 58 standards. NFPA 58: Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code provides minimum safety requirements for all liquefied petroleum gas (propane) installations, from small cylinders installed at residences to large bulk storage facilities. The code includes minimum requirements for safe handling during LP gas transfer, including operator qualifications, maximum filling quantity in containers, and pre-transfer inspections to ensure containers are fit for continued service.

Critical propane storage guidelines include:

• Propane tanks should be stored in well-ventilated areas, upright and secure, and away from ignition sources
• Storage areas need to be ventilated, clean and dry, with indoor temperatures not exceeding 100°F (38°C)
• Propane tanks and connections should be properly maintained and inspected for leaks or damage, as propane is stored under pressure requiring proper storage and handling procedures
• A distance of 20 ft. is required between liquid fuel storage areas and liquified petroleum gas (propane) storage areas

Natural Gas System Considerations

Natural gas systems offer distinct advantages for generator installations, particularly regarding storage safety. Despite their use of utility-supplied natural gas, Generac Bi-Fuel generators meet the on-site fuel requirements for emergency systems as referenced in NEC700 and NFPA 110. With less diesel fuel required to be stored on-site, permitting also becomes easier.

Natural gas eliminates many storage concerns because fuel is delivered directly through utility lines rather than stored on-property. This approach reduces fire hazards, eliminates fuel degradation issues, and simplifies maintenance requirements.

Professional Installation Requirements

Generator fuel systems require professional installation to ensure compliance with safety codes. Licensed professionals should install standby propane generators due to the fuel’s pressurized nature. Both types require compliance with safety standards set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

For property owners considering generator installation Denton County, TX, working with experienced professionals ensures proper fuel system design and installation. Carroll Service Co has served the DFW and Mid-Cities area for over 25 years, providing expert generator installations that meet all local safety requirements.

Safety Distance and Clearance Requirements

Proper spacing between fuel storage and other structures is critical for safety. Each individual container shall be located with respect to the nearest important building or group of buildings in accordance with established minimum distance requirements, while a distance of 10 ft. or greater must be maintained between any stored fuels and any combustible materials or sources of ignition, with a safety area of 10 ft. around stored fuel marked as off limits.

Maintenance and Inspection Protocols

Regular maintenance prevents fuel storage systems from becoming safety hazards. Tanks shall be sized so that fuel is consumed within the storage life or provisions shall be made to remediate fuel that is stale or contaminated. A fuel quality test shall be performed at least annually using appropriate ASTM standards.

Professional inspections should include checking for leaks, verifying proper ventilation, confirming adequate clearances, and testing safety systems. Regularly inspect fuel lines, connections, and tanks for leaks, and address any issues promptly.

Working with Qualified Professionals

Carroll Service Co understands the complexities of generator fuel storage safety in Denton County. The company has been the DFW and Mid-Cities area’s trusted electrical contractor for over 25 years, is locally owned and fully licensed, and every electrician carries current Texas licensing and insurance so your property stays fully protected throughout the project.

As an established electrical contractor serving families and business owners in Tarrant County, their team of electricians is dedicated to customer service and high-quality workmanship. These values help guarantee customer satisfaction. Their expertise ensures your generator fuel storage system meets all safety requirements while providing reliable backup power when you need it most.

Proper fuel storage is essential for generator safety and effectiveness. By following established guidelines and working with qualified professionals, Denton County property owners can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a properly installed and maintained backup power system.