What is that valve on my propane tank?
 

If you cook using a gas grill fueled by propane, you may have noticed a change in how the valve on the propane tank looks. Also, if you bought a gas grill in the last couple of years, the tank that came with the grill and the connection on the grill probably look different from what you are accustomed to seeing.

First, a description of the basics of how things were and what has changed. Then, how it may affect you when you need to get more fuel.

Safety Note: Propane tanks of any design must be transported and stored in an upright position so the pressure relief device will function properly. Laying the tank on its side in the trunk of your car is a potentially very dangerous situation.

OPD Valves

You can find cylinders with the new OPD valves at many places, including propane companies, hardware stores, and discount stores. 

Please click here for information concerning disposal of old or non-OPD-equipped cylinders.

What To Do if the Grill Won't Light

The safety devices require you to open the valve on the tank before you open the burner valve. Otherwise, all you will get is enough gas to run a pilot light. If your grill will not light, try this:

• Close the burner valve, leaving the tank valve open.
• Wait a few minutes. (You may have to wait longer if you have a long hose.)
• Go through the lighting procedure again, opening the burner valve according to your grill's instructions.

When You Exchange Your Tank

You need to be attentive if you go to a cylinder exchange cabinet to turn in your empty tank for a filled one. If you have the old-style connector on your grill, you can use both of the widely-available screw-on valves. However, if you have a new grill with the connector that needs the new external threads, be sure to get a tank with the new Acme valve. Some of the exchange cabinets offer many tank styles. Get the one you need. Remember, the Acme valve will work on both styles of grill connectors discussed so far.

You may still see some non-OPD-equipped cylinders after April 1, 2002. This is legal. As mentioned earlier, you may use and transport non-OPD cylinders after this date. But you cannot have them filled.

Safety Tips

Propane tanks make grilling easy and convenient. In most cases, grilling is a pleasant way to spend a summer evening or weekend outdoors with family and friends. There have been few problems with propane tanks in these situations, but the potential for problems exists, as it does with any source of energy. To reduce the possibility of these problems, follow these steps:

• Keep spare propane tanks away from the heat of the grill.
• Use and store propane tanks outdoors only and in an upright position so the valve is at the uppermost part of the tank.
• Never carry tanks into a house or other type of building.
• If the tank becomes corroded or loses its collar ring (the carrying handle) or its foot ring (the support ring on the bottom), replace the tank immediately.
• Do not allow young children to play with the tanks, especially the older-style, POL valve equipped tanks.

With these simple precautions, you can continue to count on your propane grill to provide a safe and convenient way to grill.