Skip to Content (press ENTER)

Propane Tank Troubleshooting

Learn how to use your grill tank safely, along with quick-fixes to try if you're experiencing propane tank problems.

Common Propane Tank Issues and Fixes

How do I know if my grill tank is empty? 
An empty propane tank still has some weight to it, but if it is fairly light and has shown other signs of being empty such as no longer fueling your grill, you can try the following:
  • Detach all of the valves.
  • Gently shake the tank to see if it’s empty. 
  • If available, attach a propane grill tank gauge level indicator to your propane tank so you know when it’s time for a refill without having to guess how much propane is left in your canister!
My grill tank is full, but it isn’t working.

If your grill tank isn't working, here's a checklist of troubleshooting actions you can try:

  1. Check that the hose attachment is properly connected to the propane tank, and double-check that the screw-on valve is tightened. Some propane tanks have safety features that won’t allow gas to escape from the canister unless the hose connection is tightly secured with the gas release mechanism. 
  2. Take a look at your connector. If it’s less than an inch long, it won’t be long enough to depress the check valve inside the valve. In this case, you’ll need a new connector that’s over an inch long. 
  3. If your valve is turned all the way on, the tank may not release propane. This is a safety feature. Start over, turning the valve only once, then igniting the grill.
  4. To increase the flame, continue turning the valve in smaller increments until the flame is where you need it. 
  5. If none of these actions work, it’s possible that you have a faulty regulator, which stops the flow of propane. In this case, it’s best to get a new hose with a regulator, and try again.

If you are still having trouble with your propane grill tank and the connectors and valves seem to be operating properly, you may need to exchange your tank.

The hand wheel on my grill tank won’t turn.
    If you are having trouble turning the hand wheel on your propane grill tank, please note:
    • The hand wheel should always be turned clockwise. If you need to loosen a jammed valve, a small dab of oil should do the trick.
    • NEVER use a wrench or other tool to attempt loosening a valve. This could break the valve and result in serious injury. 

    You may wish to exchange the tank if you are unsuccessful at turning the valve.

    There’s frost on my grill tank, what should I do?

    If your propane grill tank has frost on it, please follow these instructions:

    • Disconnect the tank and turn it to the OFF position.
    • Leave it there for 15 minutes.
    • Once 15 minutes has passed, turn the hand wheel only once to try again.
    • Do not turn the hand wheel all the way—this causes frost, may break the hand wheel, and could result in injury.