How to Tell if You Need to Refill or Replace Your Propane Tank
Whether you are a BBQ enthusiast or a warm weather barbecuer, never wonder when to refill or replace your propane tank again with these helpful tips and tricks. Never fret over mid-BBQ propane mishaps and discover crucial tips to gauge fuel levels, ensuring safety. Keep reading to BBQ hassle-free and avoid unexpected interruptions to your next culinary creation with some simple and essential grill maintenance.
How To Tell If You Need A Refill
There are a few ways to tell if you need to refill your propane tank. Rather than running out of propane in the middle of BBQing – been there, done that - you should check your fuel levels before you start cooking. You don’t need to do this if you filled the tank a couple weeks ago and have only cooked a few steaks and burgers. However, if you’ve done a few roasts and barbecued every night for a week, you will want to check.
Did you know that you will get more propane into a cylinder when the air around the tank is cooler? You don’t want freezing temperatures, but a nice temperate day vs. days that are 86°F (30°C) will provide better filling conditions.
Check by Weight:
This method can be inaccurate if you are just picking up the tank itself and testing the weight by how heavy it feels. Although you can get answers that are a little bit more accurate if you weigh the propane tank on a scale. Generally the regular propane tanks you see at gas stations and hardware stores are the “20 lb.” tanks. The tare weight (empty weight) of a cylinder is approximately 17 lbs. / 8 kgs. They hold roughly 20 lbs. / 9 kgs. of propane when filled. To figure out how much propane you have left in your tank, weigh the tank and subtract the tare weight. You can find the tare weight of your propane cylinder on the handle of the tank.
The Water Test:
Do you need to know if you have enough propane to cook dinner tonight? Fill a cup with hot tap water and pour it down the side of the thank in question. Feel the side of the tank. It will be cold to the touch where there is propane. The top of the cold indicates where on the tank your propane level starts.
Napoleon recommends - every time you change/reinstall your propane tank - that you double-check the seal on the propane tank for cracks and breaks or missing pieces before fitting the regulator back on and then perform a leak test.
Do you Need to Replace your Tank?
You may not realize it, but your propane tank has an expiration date on it. It is between 10 and 12 years from the date of manufacture as seen on the handle of the tank – near where you find the tare weight. This depends on the legislations where you live. Tanks may be re-qualified by licensed professionals this adds about five years to a propane tank’s lifespan before it needs to be re-qualified again.
Remember:
A propane tank that is expired, dented, or rusty should not be refilled.
Old/empty propane tanks will have residual propane in them and need to be disposed of at hazardous waste collection sites.
Do not throw old propane tanks into your household garbage or recycling. This goes for the portable propane cylinders as well.
People Also Asked
How Do I Know if I Need a New Propane Tank?
When determining whether you need a new propane tank, inspect the tank for visible signs of damage or corrosion. Look for rust, dents, or bulges, which may indicate structural weaknesses. You should also, check for leaks by conducting a simple soapy water test on the connections and valves. Finally, ensure the tank's valve operates smoothly without any difficulty, as a malfunctioning valve could indicate underlying issues that mean you should probably replace the tank.
Is it Better to Refill or Exchange Propane Tanks?
When deciding between refilling or exchanging a propane tank, consider factors such as cost, convenience, and tank condition. Refilling is often the cheaper option per gallon compared to tank exchange services. It also allows you to retain ownership of your tank, potentially avoiding issues with older or damaged exchange tanks. However, tank exchange is generally more convenient, especially if you don't have a refill station nearby. Ultimately, the choice depends on your preferences and specific circumstances.
How Do I Know If My Propane Tank is Still Good?
First, check the tank's expiration date which is usually stamped on the collar or handle. If the tank has exceeded its expiration date, it may no longer be safe for use and should be replaced. Additionally, inspect the tank for any visible signs of damage, such as rust, dents, or bulges which indicate structural weaknesses.
How Do I Know if My Propane Tank can be Refilled?
Ensuring that your propane tank can be refilled involves checking its condition and ensuring it meets safety standards. Firstly, make sure the tank is not past its expiration date, as refilling expired tanks may be prohibited or unsafe. You also need to inspect the tank for any rust, dents, or bulges. Damaged tanks should not be refilled. Finally, check the tank's valve to ensure it operates smoothly and without any difficulty. A malfunctioning valve could pose a safety hazard during the refilling process and may require repairs or replacement before refilling the tank.
Using propane is a convenient way to power your Napoleon Grill. As part of your regular grill maintenance, inspecting and changing your grill’s propane tank is an important part of that. Knowing how much propane you have left is vital to avoiding the embarrassment of getting a refill in the middle of cooking. Tell us your propane stories by sharing on our social pages like Facebook and Instagram, using the hashtags #PropaneBBQ and #NapoleonGrill.