How to Test a Propane Regulator
The regulator on a propane tank should be tested annually to make sure it is operating properly. It is something you can easily do yourself by following a few simple instructions if you have access to a water column manometer.
- Take the plastic cap off the regulator on the tank and attach the manometer into the outlet test tap.
- Light all the pilots on the appliance that is operated by the tank.
- Determine how much pressure the tank is putting out by reading the manometer. Make sure the appliance is operating at full capacity before taking the reading. This will ensure you are getting an accurate reading of the pressure of the tank. To find out what the reading for your tank should be you could look on the label located on the tank. If it is not on the tank, you can contact the manufacturer to get this information or the information may be available on the manufacturer's website. The amount of pressure the tank should have depends on the size and brand of the tank.
- Take the tank to a professional if the reading on the tank is too low because it is probably due to the tank having a leak. The manometer is only used to determine if there is a problem with the tank and does not give specific details to what the problem is. Do not attempt to locate and fix the leak yourself. This is something that should be handled by someone that is trained to work on the tank.