How to Use 2 Propane Tanks

When cooking outdoors on a gas grill, there is nothing more frustrating than running out of propane just before you finish cooking that perfect steak. One easy solution for homeowners that is cheap, easy to install and quite effective is called an automatic changeover regulator. This component allows you to have two propane tanks hooked up simultaneously to your grill (or other device) and will automatically switch from using the first tank to the second tank without interruption when the first is empty. Then, simply refill the empty tank at your leisure and hook it back up.

Things You'll Need

• Automatic changeover regulator
• 1/4-inch ID high pressure flexible pigtail assemblies (2, desired length)
• 1/4-inch ID high pressure inverted flare pigtail assembly
• 2 large adjustable wrenches
• Clean rags
• Soapy water
• Small paintbrush

Instructions

1. Gather the three pigtail assemblies and the automatic changeover regulator (regulator) and place them on a suitable work surface. The work area should be free from dust and dirt to prevent contamination of your propane connections.

2. Insert the small end of the 1/4-inch ID high-pressure inverted flare pigtail assembly into the single opening located on the automatic changeover regulator. The single opening will be on the far end of the regulator from the dual openings. For reference, the dual opening end will also contain a flow valve indicator, which will identify which tank the propane is currently being drawn from. Tighten the connection using two adjustable wrenches, turning them in opposite directions until the connection is tight.

3. Insert the small end of one of the 1/4-inch ID high pressure flexible pigtail assemblies into one of the dual openings located on the regulator. Tighten this connection using an adjustable wrench, turning the pigtail nut clockwise to tighten it.

4. Insert the small end of the remaining 1/4-inch flexible pigtail assemblies into the remaining dual opening on the regulator.

5. Remove the plastic dust covering from the fuel cylinder valve on the first propane tank to be connected. Discard the covering. Screw the first flexible pigtail coupling leading from the regulator onto the cylinder valve. Turn it clockwise to tighten it. Hand tighten this connection only.

6. Remove the plastic dust covering from the fuel cylinder valve on the second propane tank to be connected. Discard the covering. Screw the remaining flexible pigtail coupling leading from the regulator onto the cylinder valve by hand.

7. Insert the 1/4-inch flare pigtail assembly into the propane coupling located on the grill or other device to be connected. Use your hand to tighten it.

8. Verify that the grill or other propane device being connected is turned off. Slowly turn on the first propane tank by turning the control valve counterclockwise to enable propane flow. Slowly turn on the second propane tank by turning the control valve counterclockwise to enable propane flow.

9. Immerse all propane pigtail and regulator connections with soapy water using a small paintbrush. Look for any tiny bubbles, which would signify a small gas leak. If any bubbles are present, turn off the propane and tighten the leaking connection. Retest the system using more soapy water. Take your time, and study the connections carefully. When you are satisfied there are no bubbles, the dual propane tank system is now ready for use.

Tips & Warnings

• Read the instructions for the regulator you purchase carefully, since many regulators offer different features depending on the model selected.

• Never fill a propane tank beyond 80 percent capacity, to allow for gas expansion.

References

• Marshall Gas Controls: Catalog of LP Solutions
• Weber: Liquid Propane Gas Grill Owner's Guide