For those with a propane grill, you know just how much of a difference it can make over cooking on the stove in your kitchen. However, you’ll need to make sure you have all the supplies you need before your next family cookout or big get-together, including having enough propane on hand. Read on to find answer to commonly asked questions about propane grills and replenishing their fuel.
What Are Propane Grills?
Propane grills and natural gas grills work similarly. They each take in fuel to heat up their burners and get them ready to help you cook delicious meals. While natural gas models are attached to a home’s natural gas line, propane-fueled grills rely on propane tanks that are connected to the grill, usually underneath. Natural gas grills may eliminate the need to purchase these tanks, but their reliance on the home’s gas line limits their placement in your yard. Conversely, propane grills can be set up virtually anywhere you want, and some feature wheels for portability, which is great for camping trips and other outdoor adventures.
These grills are a common option, as they are relatively simple to use, and they heat up quickly. This means that you can get grilling sooner and spend more time with your guests. They also don’t require much cleanup, and the available grill cleaning tools make it easy to keep them ready for use.
How Do Propane Grills Work?
As mentioned above, propane grills use propane tanks to create heat. These tanks are connected to the grill’s valve regulators through a hose. The regulators feature knobs, allowing you to control the flow of propane through the hose. The hose allows the propane to enter the grill through small holes in each burner, which permits safe yet effective operation. By combining gas from the propane tank and oxygen from the air, you’ll only need a spark to create a flame. Once a spark is introduced, your burner will be lit, and your grill will have a steady flame ready for cooking.
How Do You Start a Propane Grill?
Once you’ve connected your tank to your grill, you should carry out the following steps to start your grill:
- Open your grill’s lid to prevent gas buildup.
- Open the valve at the top of the propane tank completely by turning its knob counterclockwise.
- For grills with an igniter button, turn the first burner all the way up and push the igniter. For those without an igniter button, light a fireplace match or use a lighter wand to light the initial burner.
- After the first burner is lit, ignite the other burners you wish to use, and then wait until they are fully lit.
- Shut the grill’s lid and let it heat up for approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
- Now your grill is nice and hot, so you can start cooking tasty meals for your family and friends.
Once you’re done grilling, you’ll need to ensure everything is turned off properly. First, turn all burner knobs to the “Off” position. Next, turn the valve on the propane tank clockwise until it is shut. You’ll then want to use a grill brush or scraper tool to clean the grates.
What Are Propane Tanks Made From?
These tanks can be made from steel or carbon steel and come in different sizes. Most grills are designed for use with a specific size tank, so you’ll want to read your manual first. Some portable grills use tanks as small as 3.8 lb., which are easy to transport and store. These are ideal for use at campsites, on hikes or just for a night away from home.
There are also tanks that hold up to 30 or 40 lb. of propane, which are designed for larger grilling units. It’s important to keep in mind that a standard, 20-lb. tank can provide about 25 hours of grilling time. You’ll want to make sure to check your remaining fuel level for planning a cookout to ensure you have enough, otherwise you could run out of propane before your food is fully cooked.
When Do I Know that I Need a Propane Refill?
Some simple ways to check your fuel level are:
Look at the Gauge
The easiest and most effective way to tell how much propane remains is to check the tank’s gauge. Not all tanks have a gauge, but those that do allow quick reference to keep you in the know.
Check the Weight
First, find the weight of the propane tank itself. This is called the tare weight (TW) and can usually be found on the tank. Next, place the tank on a scale and look at the current overall weight. Lastly, subtract the TW from the overall weight to see the weight of the remaining fuel.
Use Warm Water
This is a helpful trick that isn’t as accurate as the others, but it can give you a general idea of the remaining fuel level if you don’t have access to a scale. Simply pour warm water down the side of the tank and slide your hand down it. As soon as your hand hits a cool spot, you’ve found the level of propane.
What Should I Know about Tractor Supply’s Propane Refills?
Most propane tanks are purchased empty, which means you’ll need a reliable supplier to fill them with propane. That’s why we provide a propane refill service to help you prepare for your next outdoor meal. Our team will fill your tank to the maximum legal limit without any flat fee or purge fee. We even will fill tanks up to 100 lb., including tanks for RVs.
Because this service doesn’t require a minimum amount, you can bring in a nearly full tank if you want to top it off before a party. You can even use the Tractor Supply app to check in, so we know you’re here and can get right to your refill. Your tank will need to be inspected before being filled, however, to ensure there is no damage that might affect the process.
Get Grilling on Your Propane Grill Today
If you own a propane grill or are interested in buying one, we can help you get everything you need. We have a dependable propane refill service that you can rely on again and again, and we offer a wide selection of propane parts and accessories to ensure you’re ready for your next gathering. To get started, shop online or visit your local Tractor Supply store.