Knowing how to fill a propane cylinder not only allows you to act safely but also saves money.
Steps
Step 1. Check the container
Before filling a cylinder with propane, you must perform a visual inspection for damage, dents and rust. Check the nozzles to make sure they are not bent or damaged. Also check for obstructions.
Step 2. Now look at the "expiration" date of the cylinder
You can find it printed on the top of the container among other important information. If more than 20 months have passed since the date you read, then the cylinder has "expired". Call the propane dealer to replace it for you. For example, if you read: "01 98" know that the tank is expired on 02/10. If the date is followed by a letter, call your propane dealer to find out if the cylinder is still valid.
Step 3. Check the weight of the container
You should weigh it to get a credit on the gas still in it and to avoid overfilling it. To find the weight of the cylinder you have to look for the tare value stamped on it (often indicated with the letters "TW"). For example, if you read the code: "TW 9" then you know that the cylinder, when empty, weighs 9 kg. This is the average size for barbecue cylinders. In fact, domestic grills use 10 kg tanks, which means that when they are completely full they weigh 10 kg (of propane) + 9 kg (of tare) = 19 kg.
Step 4. Set the scale to the amount of propane you want
The maximum quantity of gas it can contain ("WC") is indicated on the cylinder. Check the table on the propane dispenser to convert the WC value into kilograms or cubic meters (based on how the dispenser is calibrated) or call the gas seller for more information. For example, if the cylinder shows the value "WC 95, 5" it means that the maximum amount of propane you can add is 18 kg.
Step 5. Connect the dispenser to the cylinder nozzle and open the valve to activate the gas flow
Step 6. Open the dispensing valve half a turn
You can find it on the neck of the dispenser tube. When the tank is full, you will see a stream of liquid come out of the relief valve. The same also happens when you have reached the weight set at the beginning on the vending machine. Do not overload the cylinder and wear rubber gloves to avoid frostbite.
Step 7. Close the vent valve and the cylinder valve
Check for leaks.
