Tips for safe storage of portable propane cylinders
We hope you enjoyed some epic cookouts during the warmer months in Bucks County, PA, Cape May County, NJ, and the other areas that Blue Flame proudly serves. Unfortunately, grilling season will soon be behind us as temperatures drop by the day.
Let’s discuss how you can prepare your grill’s propane cylinder for the snow and ice to come.
Can liquid propane freeze?
One of the concerns our team hears from people getting grills ready for the winter is whether the liquid propane in their grill tank can freeze. When temperatures drop well below freezing, people have issues with icing and gelling in heating oil and diesel. But you don’t need to worry about that with propane.
Propane has a freezing point of -306.4°F. For reference, the coldest temperature ever recorded in New Jersey was -47.8°F, and that was in 1904. Pennsylvania’s record was -42°F that same year. So, you don’t need to worry about the propane in your grill tank approaching freezing.
How can you get your grill tank ready for winter?
Although you don’t need to worry about your grill fuel freezing, there are some precautions you should take as winter approaches.
- Keep your cylinders outside. It’s not safe to store propane cylinders indoors.
- Close the valve. If you leave your grill outdoors over the winter, you can leave your cylinder attached, but be sure to close the valve. If you plan to bring your freestanding grill into a garage, disconnect the grill tank, close the valve and leave it outdoors.
- Protect your grill tank. Keep your propane cylinder shielded from the elements and any possible falls or blows. This will prevent denting and rust.
- Check for leaks. You can perform a simple, at-home leak test on your grill tank before storing it in the winter.
- Store it in an upright position. Ensure the grill cylinder is in a stable, level and secure position.
How should you prep your grill for winter?
The end of fall is an excellent time to clean your propane grill thoroughly. This means:
- Scouring and wiping down the grates and cooking racks.
- Cleaning the heat plates.
- Checking the burners for blockages.
- Emptying and cleaning the grease container.
- Clearing any food remnants, ash and grease from the inside of the grill.
- Wiping down parts of the grill that are dirty.
Cleaning the grill will prevent mice and other critters from being attracted to it and potentially damaging parts of it. It’s also a good idea to cover your grill during the colder months to reduce wear and tear from the elements.
Blue Flame is here for your late-season grilling needs.
Need fuel for one more Football Sunday cookout? Keep an eye out for our Lil’ Hank’s grill tank exchanges for well-maintained propane cylinders and premium fuel.
Contact Blue Flame to find the Lil’ Hank’s exchange closest to you.