How to Light a Propane Torch
Propane torches are among the most useful tools to have around the house. They have several applications including soldering, bubbling up old paint for removal and loosening rusted pipes and bolts. They are relatively inexpensive and, while certain safety precautions should be followed when dealing with an open flame, easy to use.
Items Needed:
- Gloves
- Matches, lighter or sparking striker
- Torch body and propane tank
- Wear gloves for protection when dealing with an open flame. Work in a well-ventilated room.
- Remove the plastic cap on the small propane tank. Screw the torch body with regulator tightly onto the top of the tank
- Turn the torch end of the tool away from you and gently turn the regulator dial on the torch body so that it is open halfway. You will hear the sound of escaping gas.
- Holding the torch in one hand, use the other to ignite the gas. A sparking striker tool is the safest method of lighting the torch. It consists of two handles, one stationary and the other that moves across the face of a small cup causing it to spark. If you have no sparking striker, a lighter or match will do.
- Adjust the blue flame when it ignites. Depending upon the nature of the job you will be performing, turn the regulator lower for a tight, pointed flame or higher for a more widely distributed and less hot flame.
- Be sure to turn the gas off completely by tightening the regulator when the job is finished. Set the torch in such a way that it can cool without touching any combustible materials.