How to Refill Propane Tanks at Home

Propane tanks have various different uses. They are most commonly used in homes for gas grills and recreational vehicles. For smaller grills and other camping gear, small, disposable propane tanks are often used for fuel. When you are done using these disposable tanks, you would generally throw them away and purchase a new one. However, if you have a larger propane tank like most gas grills or trailers use, you can refill them yourself instead of purchasing new ones.

Propane tank
Disposable propane tank
Propane tank refill adapter

Instructions

- 1
  Connect the propane refill adapter to the two propane tanks. Make sure that the adapter is sealed tightly to both of the tanks to avoid leaks. Propane found in these tanks is usually in liquid form and can freeze the skin if it comes into contact.
- 2
  Open the valves on both tanks. Propane tanks are pressurized and the propane from the fuller tank will move into the empty tank. Always monitor the level of propane in the tank you are filling to ensure that you do not overfill the tank. It usually helps to keep the tank you are filling lower than the full tank since propane typically sinks.
- 3
  Release the pressue valve pin slowly to ensure that the propane tank will fill completely. Be careful when doing this because it can cause the tank to overfill if you are not carefully monitoring the tank levels.
- 4
  Check for leaks caused by the refill process. Once you have filled the empty tank and closed the valves, apply soapy water to the tops of both propane tanks. Watch for bubbles. Bubbles will indicate a leak, which will need to be sealed.

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