Posted on 14th Sep 2019
Yes and that is an important question!
Why?
Ambient temperature affects propane pressure.
As an example, for any volume of propane inside of a propane tank when at 80 degrees Fahrenheit, the pressure is about 128 psi. If the temperature is lowered to 50 degrees Fahrenheit, the pressure is about 78 psi. If the temperature is lowered further to zero degrees Fahrenheit, then propane pressure will reduce to 24 psi.
Therefore, using propane appliances and propane tanks in colder climates can present issues that require professional assistance such as selecting the propane tank size. Additionally the wide variation in possible pressure changes is one reason why using a two stage pressure regulator is important.
Contact your local propane distributor for assistance. Additionally, some people think that pressure can be used to determine how much propane is in a tank. That is incorrect. Pressure readings do not translate into volume readings.
You can learn more interesting and helpful propane facts. Complete the two boxes below.
What can I do about a sticky percentage/volume gauge?A Propane Tank with a gauge ..can have problems? How does a gauge work? The gauge on your propane tank is driven by a shaft inside the tank with a magnetic tip that resides just under the [...]
How to check for a propane leak! Checking for propane tank leaks is easy if you have the right product. Most propane dealers or R/V stores sell a liquid product available in a spray bottle that will bubble when sprayed fittings that has a leak. Any leak will be visible by the appearance of bubbles. You may have heard about [...]
Why does my new propane tank not fill properly? All new propane tanks must be purged of air and moisture before being filled for the first time with propane. The purging process, which must be done by a trained propane service professional, requires that a small amount of propane vapor gas be injected [...]
How Long will my Propane Last? That question can be answered in two different ways. [...]
How much pressure is in my propane tank? According to the national standards publication NFPA58, a propane tank with 20 pounds (5 Gal) of gas at 70°F would have a pressure of 145 psi; at 90°F, pressure would increase to 180 psi; at 105°F, pressure continues to rise to 235 psi, and at 130°F, pressures of 315 psi would [...]
Safety Tips - What to do if you smell propane! 1. NO FLAMES OR SPARKS! Immediately put out all smoking materials and other open flames. Do not operate lights, appliances, telephones, or cell phones. Flames or sparks from these sources can trigger an explosion or a fire. Never store propane with other hazardous products! 2. LEAVE THE AREA IMMEDIATELY! Get everyone out of the building [...]
Insects are flying around my Propane Tank? Why? Insects flying around your propane tank may be an indicator of a propane leak and which should be investigated immediately. Insects are attracted to the chemical placed in your propane to give it that nasty smell. Insects may detect the leak long before you see, hear or smell it, so [...]
Where does Propane come from? The propane can be found in a mixture of gases that naturally collect above pockets of crude oil found underground. However, most propane sold today is a product of the refining process of crude oil. Become a member of our newsletter and learn more. We provide brief but informative information.
Why has Ice formed on my Propane Regulator? Moisture inside of a propane tank is most likely the problem. Water vapor will condense and freeze as it travels through the regulator. This freezing action will block the flow of propane and your appliances will not work.How can this be fixed? Contact your propane delivery company and request that they [...]