Regulators installed on an underground propane tank are subject to different precautionary measures for proper protection, safety and continuous operation. Concerning all propane tank installations, regulator safety and protection is of the utmost importance.
But when dealing with underground installations, regulator installation takes on a new set of standards and additional safeguards. According to NFPA 58, “the discharge of the regulator vent shall be above the highest probable water level”.
Underground Tanks and Underground Regulators
The term “underground regulator” may be a bit misleading as the regulator is not buried in the same manner as the propane tank.
The regulator sits in an underground dome or shroud where it is protected from the surrounding earth and back fill. Under ordinary circumstances, the tank shroud (housing) and lid will provide adequate protection for the regulator.
However, if the propane tank is buried in a location where water collects, added protection will be necessary. For instance, if the propane tank has been buried in a location where the water level may even temporarily rise above the level of the vent, additional regulator protection must be provided even if drainage seems sufficient.
Tanks that are buried where drainage is sufficient do not always need additional regulator and vent protection but as previously mentioned, the regulator vent discharge must be above the highest probable water level. Any regulator that has been underwater for any length of time needs to be replaced as soon as possible.
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