Why Is My Grill Tank Hissing?
How to troubleshoot propane grill issues
Grilling with a propane grill adds a level of ease to your outdoor cooking. However, that does not mean that you won’t have to occasionally troubleshoot certain issues that arise when you are trying to whip up those burgers, hot dogs and steaks. One issue that you may find yourself facing is a hissing sound coming from your grill tank.
Possible grill tank hissing causes
A hissing sound coming from your grill tank (which can otherwise be referred to as a propane cylinder) is probably a sign that your tank is relieving pressure buildup through its pressure relief valve. If you notice this sound, shut off your grill, disconnect your grill tank from your grill and take it to a well-ventilated area until the pressure has finished emptying out.
The hissing usually automatically stops once enough pressure has been released. However, if the sound continues for a while, your propane cylinder may have a leak.
You can check for leaks by mixing water with dish soap and then spraying this mixture onto your propane cylinder valve, grill hose and regulator. After you spray, open the cylinder valve to check for bubbles (bubbles indicate a leak). Close the valve, re-tighten all connections and then reopen the valve to see if there are still bubbles inside. If you still notice bubbles, you may need to replace your cylinder, hose or regulator.
Other grill issues
Again, grilling with propane makes your life easier in a lot of ways. But every now and then you may find that your grill isn’t lighting properly. If you are certain that there is enough fuel in your grill tank and you are running into this issue it could be because:
- A propane valve that is supposed to be open is actually closed.
- Your burners are blocked or clogged.
- Your igniter either needs new batteries or needs to be replaced or repaired.
- The tubes that your propane moves through to reach the burners are clogged.
Sometimes your grill doesn’t work because there isn’t enough fuel in the propane cylinder. But how can you be sure?
Some grills come with a scale in their storage compartment that tells you how much propane is left in the grill tank. But if yours doesn’t and you need to check on your propane supply you can:
- Buy a tank gauge and install it on your grill tank.
- Find your cylinder’s tare weight (TW), which is how much it weighs when empty, and water capacity (WC). These numbers should both be marked on your tank. Put your grill tank on a scale, subtract the TW number and divide what you get by the WC. Your result is the percentage of propane that is still in your grill tank.
- Pour hot water over your propane cylinder and use your hands to feel for a cool spot. This cool spot indicates how full your tank is.
Rucci Oil can help you have a seamless grilling season
When you need propane for your grill tank Rucci Oil can help. For added convenience we even offer a Smart Exchange program. With this service you can just contact us when you need a new propane cylinder, leave your old cylinder in a safe spot on your Staten Island or Brooklyn property and then we collect that old cylinder as we deliver a new one.
Contact Rucci Oil today and let us know how we can help with your grill related propane needs.