How to Change Tanks on a Propane BBQ

While propane is a highly flammable gas, and caution must be used when dealing with tanks full of this particular gas, it is a fairly safe and straightforward process to change the tanks on your propane BBQ grill. Equipped with common sense and the owner's manual to your grill, you should be able to switch tanks in an efficient and safe manner.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Propane tank
• Owner's manual

1. Review the owner's manual to your propane grill for any additional concerns before you change tanks.

2. Change the tanks on your propane BBQ grill by closing the valve on the old tank, and carefully removing it from the bottom of the grill. Remember that propane tanks should always be stored upright, rather than on their sides.

3. Retrieve the new tank and inspect it for damage. Look for corrosion on the tank itself and damaged or bent parts on the valve and connector. Ensure that the O-ring, which is a rubber piece that fits around the connector and provides the seal, is not missing.

4. Find an appropriate location to change tanks on your propane BBQ grill. Never change tanks in an enclosed area, such as a garage or covered patio. Keep the grill away from buildings, and constantly sniff the air to detect any leaks coming from the new tank.

5. Place the new propane tank in its appropriate spot underneath your propane BBQ grill. Check to see that the tank is properly seated and secured before turning the valve. Inspect the tank one last time for any possible damage.

6. Attach the line form the propane BBQ grill to the propane tank. Twist the connector until the hose is tightly attached to the tank, with no play in the connector.

7. Turn the valve to determine whether you have connected the new propane tank properly to the gas line. You should see a little movement in the hose as the gas fills inside, but you should not hear any hissing noises from the valves or hose. If you do hear a leak, or smell the odor of propane, then turn the valve off and disconnect the tank immediately. Wait for the gas to disperse before attempting again to connect the tank.

Tips & Warnings

• Since propane is a gas that is heavier than air, it is fairly easy to tell the difference between an empty propane tank and a full one. Tip the tank slightly, and you should feel the propane shift inside the tank, almost like water.
• Propane is colorless and odorless. The smell of propane is caused by an ingredient that has been added for your safety.