Safe Handling of Propane Grill Tanks

How to Keep Summer BBQs Safe and Fun

Milder temperatures and lengthening days mean grilling season is just around the corner. That means it’s time to get the grill cleaned up and make sure you’re propane tanks are full and ready to go. And brush up on propane cylinder safety. Keep these safety tips in mind before you transport propane or light up the grill and enjoy great times outside with family, friends, and delicious food.

1. Position your grill at least six feet away from your home on sturdy and level ground.
2. Never leave the grill unattended.
3. Check all hoses and connections for leaks before operating the grill.
4. Never light a gas grill with the lid closed. Open the lid before turning on the gas at the tank. If the grill doesn’t light after a couple of clicks, turn off the burner, turn the gas off at the tank, and wait 5 or 10 minutes before attempting to light it again.
5. Keep your grill lid accessible to extinguish small flare-ups. It’s also a good idea to portable fire extinguisher or baking soda on-hand. DO NOT attempt to extinguish a grease fire with water!
6. Never attach or disconnect an LP tank or adjust fittings while the grill is operating. If you run out of gas while grilling, turn off all the burners, reconnect the new tank, and re-light. When you finish grilling, shut the gas valve and disconnect the LP couplings before storing the grill.

Most of these tips also apply if you’re using portable cylinders for patio heaters and fire pits. Make sure these devices are on level, steady surfaces, and don’t leave them unattended when lit.

Safe and Easy Tank Changes

Not sure you know how to remove your grill tank? It’s as easy as 1-2-3:

1. Make sure your grill is off, and the tank valve is closed (turn it all the way to the right, until it’s tight).
2. Unscrew the grill pressure regulator by turning it to the left.
3. Some grill models also have a restraining bolt. Just loosen it and remove the tank.

To attach the new tank, just follow the steps in reverse, 3-2-1!

Safe Moves

Transporting a portable propane cylinder? Here’s how to do it safely:

1. Transport it upright (valve on top) in a secure position to prevent rolling.
2. Close and plug the cylinder valve.
3. Place the cylinder in a well vented area inside the vehicle.
4. Don’t leave the cylinder in a hot vehicle; go straight to your propane dealer and straight home when you pick it up.
5. Don’t smoke while handling or transporting propane cylinders.

Need Propane?

Admiral makes it easy to refill your tanks at our Blountville and Greeneville locations, or exchange for our propane at multiple other locations across the Tri-Cities area.

We offer propane tank refills for a variety of sizes, including 20-pound cylinders most folks use for grills, patio heaters, and mosquito traps, up to 100- pound cylinders.

Ready to fire up the grill? Contact us to learn more about our propane refill stations today—we’ve got a convenient location near you.