How to Connect a Propane Tank

Propane is a useful, convenient and cost-effective fuel, and it has become the standard fuel used in the typical backyard barbecue grill. Most of these grills come with a 5-gallon propane tank. If you are new to grilling, or have purchased a new grill, you will need to know how to safely connect the propane tank to it so that you can begin your outdoor cooking.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Propane tank
• bowl
• dish soap

1. Make sure that your grill and propane tank are on flat and level ground to prevent the tank or grill from becoming unstable or tipping over.

2. Set the tank in the designated spot for it on your grill. The grill will have either an indentation in its base or a rack, both of which will fit the bottom of the propane tank.

3. Turn the top valve on the propane tank clockwise to ensure that it is closed. Locate the propane hose and connection fitting; it is usually dangling underneath the grill unit.

4. Take the connection fitting and place it on the threaded fitting that extends horizontally from just below the top valve of the propane tank. Turn the fitting on the hose counterclockwise to tighten it securely. Propane fittings of this type are reverse threaded.

5. Open the valve on the top of the propane tank. Drip soapy water all over and around the fittings and look for leaks, which will be evident by bubbles being formed as propane escapes. If there are no bubbles, you have connected it properly. If you have a leak, close the top valve, disconnect the fittings, and try threading them again. You probably had them cross threaded and did not form a tight seal.

References

• Managing the Temperature of Your Gas Barbecue grill

Resources

• Propane Tank Safety