Dumb Question - Mini Propane Tank

Status
Not open for further replies.

effowe

Diamond Member
Nov 1, 2004
6,012
18
81
I recently purchased a small space heater that accepts those miniature propane tanks that are used with camping equipment etc.

Example:
propane_tanks2.jpg


I screwed the tank into the heater, but the question is, is it safe to just unscrew it before it's empty? I've always dealt with normal size tanks with shutoff valves, so I'm not quite sure.

Thanks
 

Howard

Lifer
Oct 14, 1999
47,982
10
81
What you need to do is to ignite the leaking vapors during the disconnection of the cylinder, in order to prevent contamination of the environment.
 

effowe

Diamond Member
Nov 1, 2004
6,012
18
81
Thanks for the answers.

Howard: I don't want to end up with a situation like Paladin has in his Avatar :p
 

BoomerD

No Lifer
Feb 26, 2006
65,626
14,013
146
You're not using that propane fired portable space heater INDOORS, I hope.

You know, they do put off carbon monoxide...and with poor ventilation...or the wrong heater, they can kill you fairly quickly.
 

zinfamous

No Lifer
Jul 12, 2006
111,583
30,835
146
you're not using that propane fired portable space heater indoors, i hope.

You know, they do put off carbon monoxide...and with poor ventilation...or the wrong heater, they can kill you fairly quickly.

OP? ...effowe?


.....RIP.

:(
 

Muse

Lifer
Jul 11, 2001
39,952
9,632
136
They automatically seal when disengaged. I've used them for many years. Never an issue. I have a propane stove, workroom torch.
 

Scarpozzi

Lifer
Jun 13, 2000
26,391
1,780
126
Yeah...one way valve. It'll leak for a split second until the tank pressure can close the valve....little or no risk.
 

TonyG

Platinum Member
Feb 12, 2000
2,021
2
81
Well, they are supposed to seal when closed, but i have seen several decide to leak after being removed. If you can't hear it hiss after removal you should be good to go. Did you get one of the indoor rated, catalytic type heaters to minimize the carbon monoxide output?
I have mainly seen the leaking issue when used with propane torches, but that is about the only thing I use those tanks for, well other than intentionally rupturing the tank to produce a fireball.
 

effowe

Diamond Member
Nov 1, 2004
6,012
18
81
I removed the tank with no issues. I was using it in a poorly ventilated garage and was aware of the risks. Either way, thanks for the replies.
 
Status
Not open for further replies.