Cylinder Care & Handling

When connecting a regulator and hose to a propane cylinder, the customer should do the following:

• Read and follow all appliance manufacturer’s instructions.
• Use only in compliance with applicable codes.
• Prior to connection of the regulator to the cylinder valve, close valves on pilot lights and appliance burners.
• Determine connection type:
  POL Type: If the regulator has an outside threaded coupling nut, the nut has left-handed threads and must be wrench tightened, counter clockwise.
  Quick Disconnect: If the regulator has a plug-in connection, pull the valve sleeve back, insert fully and release valve sleeve.
  QCC Type: If the cylinder has large outside threads, tighten the inside threaded regulator coupling nut by turning clockwise.
• Upon connection, make certain that the regulator vent is pointed down, and away from ignition sources.
• DO NOT check for gas leaks with a match or open flame.
• Apply a soapy solution at areas of threaded joints/connections, pressure relief valve, vent, and any other point where gas could possibly leak. Open cylinder valve. If bubbles appear, close valve and have a service technician make needed repairs. Also, check appliance valves and connections to make sure they do not leak before lighting appliance.
• Light appliance(s) following manufacturer’s instructions.
• When appliance(s) is not in use, keep cylinder valve closed.
• Store cylinder outside and keep cool (under 130 degrees Fahrenheit).

Storing Cylinders

• Always keep cylinders standing upright.
• Store cylinders outdoors away from sources of ignition and in a place where they will not be exposed to high temperatures.
• Never store or use a propane cylinder in your home or any other enclosed space, such as a garage, basement, or shed.
• Keep cylinders away from heat.

Transporting Cylinders

• After filling, take cylinders directly home.
• Keep cylinders upright and secure.
• Keep cylinder valve closed when not in use or when empty.
• Put a cap or plug in the cylinder valve outlet, unless it is a quick-connect type of cylinder valve.
• Keep your vehicle ventilated.
• Never leave cylinders in a vehicle except when transporting.

Cylinder Requalification

Poorly maintained, rusted, damaged, or old cylinders may need requalification before filling, or may need to be taken out of service. Federal regulations and NFPA 58 require periodic requalification of all small propane (DOT) cylinders. Do not use or have any cylinder due for requalification filled until it has been properly inspected and requalified and the requalification date stamped on it. In the United States, any cylinder over 12 years old must be re-certified before it can be filled. Have your propane cylinder filled by a trained and certified propane professional.

Cylinder Repair

Do not attempt to repair your cylinder, cylinder valve, regulator, or appliance. Call your propane gas supplier.

General Cylinder Safety

• DO NOT use the propane gas cylinder if it shows signs of dents, gouges, bulges, fire, damage, corrosion, leakage, excessive rust, or other forms of visible external damage. Call us for further instructions.
• Do not smoke or have open flames within 25 feet of any L. P. gas cylinder.
• Make sure to read all warning labels attached to the cylinder.
• Make sure your propane cylinder is equipped with an OPD valve. The unique triangular shape of the valve’s hand wheel and the letters “OPD” can identify OPD cylinders. Cylinders with a round or star-shaped hand wheel are obsolete.
• Do not attempt to repair a damaged propane cylinder yourself. Return the damaged cylinder to a qualified propane supplier for repairs or disposal.
• Cylinder coating must be a heat reflective color. Alabama requires white or aluminum.
• Never allow a cylinder to be overfilled.
• Keep out of the reach of children.