Whenever you’re working with a propane tank, safety should be the first thing on your mind. Since this gas is flammable, it only takes one mistake to create numerous potential problems.
Whether you’re on an RV or trying to grill in the backyard, the first step to using your fuel is to open the valve.
Propane tanks use a manual valve with fine threads that opens and closes based on your operations. When closed, you receive a tighter fit.
This valve doesn’t provide a throttling mechanism. Although it seems like you’re sending less fuel, the gas continues to flow even when a flame isn’t present.
How Much Should I Open the Valve on the Propane Tank?
The propane tank valve should be kept 100% open whenever the fuel is being used. Today’s tanks use a double sealing design, which means they’re either open or closed, but never in-between those two states. A partial turn increases the chance of having a gas leak, which could eventually cause combustion.
Most propane tanks come with four valve types. Here is a closer look at each one.
| Propane Valve Type | What This Propane Valve Does |
| POL Valve | This valve is one of the oldest on the market today. It’s named after the company that invented it, putting the threads inside the connector, and requiring a wrench to connect it. They release gas without additional connections. You must screw a plug into the valve to prevent the propane from escaping. |
| OPD Valve | OPD stands for “overfill protection device.” It has three lobes that work with a safety valve to ensure you receive a safe flow of propane whenever there’s work to do. |
| ACME Valve | This quick-closing coupling valve is bigger than other options, but it also comes with a safety valve you and turn by hand to let the propane flow. It looks a lot like an OPD, but it uses a handwheel for its controls. |
| Ball Valve | Some propane tanks use a similar valve to what you’ll see on water lines or gas pipes in the home. They’re typically made of brass, providing a simple lever for you to turn. When the unit is in the off position, you’ll get zero gas to your grill, fireplace, or any other application. |
Most valves are based on the tank size they support. What works for a 20-gallon tank might be unsuitable for a 100-gallon unit hooked up to a fireplace.
Some tank manufacturers have specifications to follow when installing a replacement valve. You’ll want to review all instructions before proceeding.
The tank should be empty before you attempt to install a new valve. If you’re just wondering how to position it when using something, always turn the valve all the way open to ensure the propane flows as expected.
How to Use a Propane Tank Safely
Small propane cylinders are portable, convenient, and affordable. It’s much easier to use them for numerous applications when you want to do some grilling, manage your fireplace, or even power an RV appliance than the larger tanks meant for permanent or semi-permanent installation.
It’s crucial to remember that small cylinders can still be hazardous when they aren’t correctly handled, used, or stored.
If you keep these safety tips in mind when you’re opening the valve on a cylinder or tank, you’ll reduce the risk of having problems develop.
| Safety Tip Category | Best Safety Tips to Consider When Using Propane Cylinders |
| Propane Storage | Keep all propane cylinders outside the home. Never keep them in an enclosed area, including basements, garages, or sheds.Propane should be kept in a cool place. Don’t expose the cylinders to temperatures above 120°F (49°C).All propane tanks and cylinders should be kept away from open flames, spark-producing tools, cigars, cigarettes, or candles. Any type of fire can generate combustion. |
| Propane Leaks | Leaking propane smells like dead animals, skunk spray, or rotten eggs. Turn the valve off if you detect these odors around a cylinder or hear a hissing noise from the tank.Leave the area immediately if you suspect a propane leak. Call 911 or your fire department after reaching a space spot.Do not restart a propane tank or cylinder after you suspect a leak until after a qualified technician inspects the unit. Test all propane cylinders and tanks for leaks after an extended period of non-use. |
| Propane Transportation | Propane tanks and cylinders should always be transported in an upright position. When transported on their sides, they can shift or roll, creating a higher risk of potential damage.Turn the valve to the off position and close it with a plug when using a POL valve. Take this step even if you know the cylinder is empty.Only transport propane containers in well-ventilated areas of a vehicle. Remove it immediately after arriving at your destination. Leaving it in a hot car causes the gas to expand, which could create combustion. |
| Propane Refills | Propane cylinders should have an overfill protection device. If too much gas goes into the tank, there might not be enough room for it to expand. That issue can lead to combustion.Never use a propane cylinder or tank that has obvious signs of damage or scarring from a fire. Contact your local propane provider to dispose of unusable cylinders or tanks. |
What Happens If My Propane Valve Is Leaking?
The easiest way to detect a gas leak from a propane tank or cylinder is to add a leak detector solution to where the valve and regulator outlet connect. Rectorseal Better Bubble Leak Locator does an excellent job showing you where the problem occurs while providing a non-corrosive, biodegradable product.
You can also use soapy water to detect propane leaks. After applying the 50/50 soap-water solution, look to see where bubbles start forming on the product.
Once you have a gas leak confirmed, here are the next steps to follow.
- Put out any open flames. Don’t turn on any household appliances or light switches. Anything with a battery, including your phone, should not be engaged because the slightest spark could trigger an explosion.
- Shut off the main gas supply valve on the tank, but only if you are able. This step is more for those that use propane as the primary fuel for their heating and cooling needs.
- Evacuate the building or area, opening windows if exiting your RV or home. That helps some of the built-up gas to escape, reducing the risk of combustion. Don’t stop to pack anything because breathing in the gas makes it hard to breathe.
- Contact emergency services.
- Stay away from the area until you receive confirmation that the leak has stopped. It’s tempting to go back into the home, but wait until the fire department, propane supplier, or local utility company gives you the go-ahead to return.
- Schedule a tank or cylinder inspection at your earliest convenience. If you’re renting the container from a service provider, it should be replaced for you when providing emergency services during and after a leak.
It helps to have a routine propane gas tank inspection for semi-permanent and permanent installations to ensure that everyone can stay safe.
FAQ About Managing Propane Tanks
Although propane is an affordable and convenient way to meet multiple needs, it also requires some proactive attention to ensure it’s used correctly. Here are some of the frequently asked questions to consider when looking at this option for the first time.
How Can I Use Propane?
Propane is helpful in numerous ways. You’ll find it at home as the fuel for water heaters, home appliances, fireplaces, and pool heaters.
Business uses for propane include fueling vehicles, space heating, powering a forklift, and agricultural heating.
The 1990 Clean Air Act calls propane a clean-burning fuel, but it requires cold temperatures to remain in a liquid state. The boiling point is -44°F.
What Are Ways to Safely Turn on a Propane Tank?
The best way to use a propane cylinder or tank is to turn the valve all the way on for use. When you’ve finished with it, turn it all the way off.
Some installations regulate propane use for on-demand needs. You would leave those tanks operational.
It helps to wear protective clothing when handling propane cylinders and tanks, including thick gloves and eyewear, to ensure that you stay safe.
The contents can be under a lot of pressure, which means unexpected results can sometimes occur.
Can I Paint My Propane Tank?
Only specific paint products are usable on propane tanks. They must include a rust inhibitor and be made for metal services. The National Fire Protection Association specifies that it must be a light and reflective color.
Does a Propane Tank Leak as It Gets Older?
A propane cylinder or tank shouldn’t leak as it ages. Although corrosion and damage can cause this problem, the equipment is built to last over the lifetime recommended by the manufacturer.
The issue that happens with many portable cylinders involves overuse. When a propane valve remains open after the supply is gone, leaks can occur when the tank gets refilled.
How Do I Fix a Leaking Propane Tank Valve?
If you suspect that your valve is leaking, contact the local propane company to tell them this information. Allow professionals to resolve the issue. You might be given instructions, including turning the valve to the closed position. Each situation is unique, so you’ll want to refer to the on-site evaluation.
Should I Be Using Propane for My Needs?
Propane, or liquefied petroleum gas, increases energy security by providing economic, on-site fueling, and portable applications. It is non-toxic, insoluble in water, and won’t pool or leave a residue. About 90% of what gets produced each year globally originates in the United States.
When it’s time to do some grilling outside, I turn to my Char-Broil Performance Stainless Steel Grill. It uses the classic setup where the flame emits from the top, like a stove burner, to give you an even cooking surface.
When I crank the valve all the way open on my propane tank, the electric igniter delivers a consistent response.
It’s fast and reliable, providing 425 square inches of cooking surface to enjoy. Two side shelves offer extra prep space or storage.
The design uses porcelain-coated cast-iron grates to ensure you receive those beautiful char marks that can only come from a grill.
It takes some time to assemble, but it’s worth the investment. The main burner delivers 36,000 BTU.
If you use propane correctly, it is a fantastic resource! Remember to open the valve all the way to ensure you get the best results.