Propane Tank Troubleshooting

Propane Tank Leaking

Not only is leaking one of the most prevalent issues that can affect a propane tank, but it is also one of the most dangerous. Propane is highly flammable, and if left unchecked, it can lead to fires or explosions. Furthermore, individuals who unknowingly inhale propane gas for an extended period may get dizzy, nauseous, or experience life-threatening side effects. For these reasons, propane manufacturers add a distinct smell to propane, comparable to a skunk or rotten eggs, to help you detect it as soon as possible. If you notice this smell or suspect a propane leak, follow these steps:

• Check for leaks: Inspect the tank for visible signs of leakage.
• Perform the soapy water test: Mix water with a small amount of dish soap and apply it to the connections and valves of the tank. If bubbles form, it indicates a leak.
• Reduce fire risks: Put out any open flames as soon as a leak is detected. Avoid turning any switches, activating appliances, or doing anything that could cause a spark. Make sure you know how to use a fire extinguisher just in case.
• Shut off the gas supply: Turn off the gas supply to the tank to stop the flow of propane.
• Replace the tank: Once the area is cleared out and it is safe to do so, replace the tank. If the propane tank or equipment is professionally installed, call a maintenance technician to replace or repair it.

Propane Tank Hissing

If you notice a hissing sound coming from your propane tank, the most likely reason is gas escaping from the tank. While this could indicate a leak, pressure imbalances and faulty valves could also cause the sound. For the health and safety of you, your staff, and your patrons, hissing propane tanks should be dealt with promptly.

• Pressure imbalance: Certain conditions can cause the pressure in your tank to get too high or too low. To avoid this, make sure the tank isn't left out in extreme heat for extended periods, as this can cause the gas inside to expand. Never overfill your tank, and ensure the tank you use is compatible with your equipment.
• Leak: A damaged propane tank or improper connection can result in a leak. Leaking tanks should be replaced or repaired promptly to prevent more serious issues.
• Faulty valve: If the release valve is obstructed by debris, not closed correctly, or is damaged or worn down, it will not regulate pressure as it should, causing the hissing sound. Malfunctioning release valves should be repaired, and you might need a new tank if the issue persists.

Propane Tank Regulator Freezing

In cold conditions, your propane tank regulator is prone to freezing, which can disrupt the flow of gas from the tank to your equipment. This issue is especially prevalent in propane-powered patio heaters or outdoor fireplaces. If you want to use your outdoor space during the winter, a freezing regulator is something you should plan for.

• Keep your tank dry: Your tank should be located in a dry, covered location that won't be exposed to rain or snow. Moisture can freeze overnight or if the temperature drops too low, affecting the regulator and other components of the tank.
• Thaw the regulator: If your regulator does freeze, start by disconnecting the tank and turning it to the off position. Using warm water, gently remove any ice or frost from the tank. Avoid using an open flame or a lighter, as this could prove dangerous in the event of an unknown gas leak.

Propane Tank Handle Stuck

If your propane tank's handle is stuck open, gas will continue to flow until it is closed, potentially causing safety concerns. On the other hand, if the handle is stuck closed, you will not be able to operate your equipment, disrupting your operation. If after attempting these troubleshooting steps the handle remains stuck, seek assistance from a professional service technician or consider replacing the tank to ensure the safety and functionality of your equipment.

• Apply pressure: Gently tap the handle with a hammer while applying pressure with your hands to loosen the valve. Avoid using a wrench to force the valve open, as this can damage components and cause potential gas leaks.
• Lubricate the valve: To ease the movement of the valve, use a spray-based lubricant to lubricate the threading beneath the handwheel.
• Check hoses and connections: If your propane tank is connected to equipment such as a grill, disconnect the hose from the tank and then reconnect it. Sometimes, reconnecting the hose will reset the pressure of the safety valve and release the handwheel, allowing for smoother operation.

Propane Tank Won't Light

A propane tank that won't light will hinder your ability to cook and utilize propane-powered equipment efficiently. When faced with this issue, troubleshoot the root causes promptly to restore functionality. Check the following components to identify why your propane won't light:

• Low gas: Assess the tank to ensure it is not running out of propane. If the gas level is low, take the tank to be refilled or replace it with a full tank to maintain uninterrupted operations.
• Faulty connections: A loose or damaged hose or valve allows propane to leak. Replace, repair, or reconnect the affected component to ensure a secure connection and proper propane flow.
• Closed valve: Before attempting to light your propane equipment, ensure that the valve on the tank is fully open. If the valve is closed, turn it on to allow the propane to flow and ignite your equipment successfully.
• Clogged burners: Sometimes, the issue may not lie with the propane tank itself but rather with the burners. Check that the grill burners are clean and free of any clogs or debris that could obstruct the propane flow. Regularly scrubbing the burners to remove any blockages can help resolve the lighting issue.
• Faulty igniter: If your propane equipment has a faulty ignition system, it will struggle to light the propane. Seek the assistance of a service technician to diagnose and repair the igniter.
• Worn or dirty electrodes: Corroded or debris-laden electrodes can impede the spark needed to ignite the propane. Consider replacing the worn or dirty electrodes to facilitate a reliable ignition process.
• Faulty regulator: A malfunctioning regulator can lead to propane leakage or hinder the flow of propane from the tank. Ensure that the regulator is in proper working condition to prevent issues related to gas flow and tank ignition. Regular maintenance and inspection of the regulator can help mitigate potential problems.

Rusting Propane Tank

Propane tanks are susceptible to rust if they are left outdoors or exposed to damp conditions for an extended period. Rust will compromise the integrity of the tank, so when it begins to form, take action promptly. Even a small amount of rust can indicate a more significant underlying issue that may affect the tank's structural integrity. To prevent rust-related problems, consider the following steps:

• Regular inspection: Check your propane tank for any signs of rust or corrosion. Addressing small rust spots early can prevent them from spreading and causing more significant damage.
• Proper storage: If you store your propane tank outside, keep it safe from the elements. Covering the tank can shield it from moisture and reduce the risk of rust formation.
• Elevated placement: To avoid puddles or accumulated moisture around the tank, place it on a raised surface.
• Protective coating: Apply a corrosion-resistant coating to your propane tank to create a barrier that repels water and prolongs its life.

Propane Tank FAQ

With proper maintenance and care, you can minimize issues your propane tank experiences and reduce the troubleshooting you need to perform. By understanding the most commonly asked questions about propane tanks, you can educate yourself on the topic and better understand how they work to keep them functioning correctly.

How Long Does a Propane Tank Last?

For standard freestanding propane tanks commonly used in commercial settings, the typical lifespan is 12 years before recertification. In contrast, underground propane tanks installed on your property or within your facility have a longer lifespan, typically lasting between 20 to 30 years. However, the exact duration can vary depending on factors such as the installation location and the condition of the ground or surrounding areas.

Does Propane Expire?

Unlike other power sources, propane is a stable fuel that does not degrade over time. If your tank is stored in the right conditions, it can last indefinitely or until it runs out and needs to be refilled.

Where to Buy a Propane Tank?

Smaller, freestanding propane tanks, typically used for portable grills or small-scale applications, can often be purchased at gas stations, grocery stores, or home improvement stores. These tanks are convenient for smaller businesses or outdoor events where mobility is important.

For larger, commercial-sized propane tanks designed to fuel your commercial kitchen or heating systems, it is recommended to purchase and install them through propane service professionals. These professionals have the expertise and equipment to safely handle the installation process, ensuring that the tank is properly set up and meets all safety regulations.

By familiarizing yourself with these common propane tank problems and their solutions, you can proactively troubleshoot any issues that may arise during your commercial cooking operations. Remember to prioritize safety at all times and seek professional assistance for any complex or hazardous situations.