If you’re planning on showing off your grilling skills at a barbecue you’ll want to make sure your yard is in tip-top shape. While you’re cleaning the grates and making sure every part of your grill is working properly if you have a propane grill (not a gas grill) you should also take a look at the propane tank. If you can’t remember the last time you refilled it a quick check can save you a lot of trouble come grilling day.
| Channel | Publish Date | Thumbnail & View Count | Actions |
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 Chowhound | 2012-07-11 20:59:49 |  1,357,608 Views |
How to Tell How Much Propane is Left for Your Gas Grill – CHOW Tip
There are many ways to check how much propane is left but the easiest way is to use a glass full of hot water. Sprinkle it over the tank (don’t worry it’s safe) and then run your hand over the metal. You will feel a cool spot where the propane level starts. The area above it will feel warm. The line where the cool and warm areas intersect will tell you exactly how full your tank is. If this line tells you that the tank only has about 20% left then it’s time to refill.
This trick works because propane is a great heat absorber. As the heat from the water is absorbed by the propane the surface of the tank cools. The parts of the tank where there is no gas only air and vapor stay warm. Granted while this trick isn’t as accurate as a pressure gauge it’s perfect for a quick check before your next planned barbecue.
If you recently refilled your propane tank and used this trick you will definitely notice a large “hot” area at the top that is about a quarter of the tank’s capacity. Which… should mean that your new tank is slightly empty at the top. Don’t panic but it’s true: your brand new propane tank is intentionally overfilled.
