Painting propane tank black

[Spanke]

I am contemplating painting my propane tank black.
This will match with my overall exterior color scheme of my renovation.

Has anyone ever pained their tank black?

I understand that the tank in direct sunlight will make the tank very hot, but I have a white insulated cover that I can place over the tank in the rare case that the tank is exposed to direct sunlight for any length of time.

Any input pros/cons would be greatly appreciated.

Spanke

[glamourpets]

I can't speak of the impact of the black paint on the tank itself. In theory, the safety should release and vent the tank if the pressure is getting too high (from heat).

Around here, most of the propane sales are offered in a "tank exchange" type arrangement. I don't know if they would exchange a black tank. This is something to consider, I think. Have you considered a black vinyl/leather sleeve? Or perhaps mounting a black cargo box on the tongue?

[Roy in TO]

Originally Posted by Spanke

I have a white insulated cover that I can place over the tank

Why not just paint the cover black?

[Darwin Maring]

Roy, You're a genius.

A simple answer and you can still TRADE your white tank at an exchange place should the need arise.

[Spanke]

Originally Posted by glamourpets

I can't speak of the impact of the black paint on the tank itself. In theory, the safety should release and vent the tank if the pressure is getting too high (from heat).

Around here, most of the propane sales are offered in a "tank exchange" type arrangement. I don't know if they would exchange a black tank. This is something to consider, I think. Have you considered a black vinyl/leather sleeve? Or perhaps mounting a black cargo box on the tongue?

I wouldn't have to exchange, there are a bunch of places close to my house that I can get my own tank refilled.

I've looked around for a black cover, can't find one.

Cargo box is not an option with my current setup.

Thanks for the input!

Spanke

[Spanke]

Originally Posted by Roy in TO

Why not just paint the cover black?

HMMMMMM.... Not a bad idea!

Can vinyl be painted and not have it flake off?

I've seen plastic spray paint in the stores, but have no experience with it.

Spanke

[Spanke]

Originally Posted by Roy in TO

Why not just paint the cover black?

The cover that I have is not hard shell. It is one of those squishy insulated vinyl types.

[RogerDat]

Over the years I recall having seen a black propane tank or two. And small 1 lb disposable propane tanks are darkish green and I have left those out on a table in the sun.

I say go for it just don't park next to me the first time or two you have it out on a hot sunny day ok?

[Bob Miller]

SEM makes a wide variety of spray paints designed for use on vinyl and other upholstery materials. I have used it extensively on vinyl walls in RV's I have restored with exellent results. Here is a link: SEM Products :: Home

[cpaharley2008]

Short answer is NO, you can not paint your tank a non reflective color
Propane Tank Colors and The Effect on Pressure

[Ian G.]

I found your question and this thread interesting so I did some research.
There are lots of warnings with good explanations of why propane tanks should be painted in a light reflective color. It all comes down to heat absorption and the potential pressures that could be created.

There also appears to be legislation contained within the NFPA 52 on tank color. There are also warnings that each state can enact it's own laws that exceed the National legislation.

I am no expert but my interpretation to this is some places may not refill your tank if empty, also insurance may be void if there was a fire (we all know insurance looks for a reason not to pay)

[Spanke]

[/ATTACH]

Originally Posted by cpaharley2008

Short answer is NO, you can not paint your tank a non reflective color
Propane Tank Colors and The Effect on Pressure

Thanks jim.

That article has convinced me my idea of painting the tank black is not a good idea!

I guess I'm back to finding a black single 20# cylinder cover, (which is proving difficult), painting the white cover I have black with SEM paint (Thanks Bob), or buying some black vinyl and making one from scratch.

Here's a picture of what I looking for:


If anyone has knows where I could find one it would be most helpful.

Thanks

Spanke

[cpaharley2008]

Here you go-
http://www.rvwholesalers.com/catalog...FYNM4Aod6iYAFg

[cpaharley2008]

another one
Amazon.com: TC-30LB 30lb Ventilated Propane Tank Cover: Patio, Lawn & Garden

[Raz]

I asked the local seamstress how hard would it be to make a cover for a propane tank and she responded "easy". I then asked about using vinyl and she thinks a home machine might not be able to handle the material. Before you buy the material best consult your local seamstress.

Four new Trilliums left California with tank covers. Ours was the first stop in Syracuse, N.Y. Only one cover was left. Attachment might be necessary.Raz

[Roy in TO]

Originally Posted by Spanke

I've looked around for a black cover, can't find one.

Cargo box is not an option with my current setup.

I'm wondering if you could not dye your vinyl cover?

Can you post a picture of your current setup? It is difficult to see from your avatar.

[Roy in TO]

OK, I found you some. It will cost $50 + shipping.
j2-tech | eBay

Or you could thing big box store. Measure your tank, go down to your local big box store and think outside the box. What would fit over your tank? A small garbage can, a planter, a square tool box ... walk around with tape in hand.

Your typical office water cooler jug might fit if you cut the bottom off and slit it up one side. It is a little smaller in diameter but the "spring" in size difference might just hold it in place. The Krylon paints work great. One of my neighbours did their plastic patio chairs 3 years ago and they still look better than new.

Somebody must make one in black already look at the picture on the bottom of this page:
http://www.popupportal.com/index.php?topic=30420.0

And you may want to look at this thread:
http://www.fiberglassrv.com/forums/f...ers-50275.html

[Spanke]

Thanks for all the replies, thoughts and advise.

I going to take the suggestion from RAZ and hire my local seamstress, who also happens to share a bed with me to boot!

My wife is pretty good with a sewing machine. Have already bought the fabric and hopefully can have a custom cover soon. Will post pics when complete.



Spanke

[Roy in TO]

Isn't Indiana one of those states that has low minimum wages and can avoid unions?
Looking forwards the result.

[RogerDat]

Originally Posted by Roy in TO

Isn't Indiana one of those states that has low minimum wages and can avoid unions?
Looking forwards the result.

At the point of sharing a bed I'm not sure one is doing a great job of avoiding unions.