How To Connect A 100-Lb. Propane Tank To A Gas Grill

A standard liquid propane (LP) tank used to provide gas to a backyard barbecue grill holds 4 to 5 gallons of liquid propane, but if you grill frequently, you may find yourself hauling the tank to exchange for a refill all too often. Why not upgrade to a larger tank that will allow you to go all summer long without refilling?

A 100-lb. propane gas tank holds approximately 24 gallons of liquid propane when fully fueled, or nearly five times as much gas as a standard 5-gallon bottle typically used with a gas grill. Although it obviously costs more to fill a bigger tank, there is a great advantage sinc you can grill much longer between fuel refills.

There's really no difference in how a larger tank is connected to the grill, except for the fact that a 100-pound tank is substantially taller and may require a regulator with a longer hose to reach the grill.

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Step 1

Measure the distance from the valve on the top or side of the 100-lb. tank to the gas connectors on the rear control panel of your grill, using a tape measure. Compare that distance with the length of your current regulator and hose to determine if a longer regulator hose is needed. Hardware stores and specialty grill shops carry gas grill regulators.

Step 2

Twist the valve knob on the top of the 100-pound propane tank clockwise to ensure it is closed.

Step 3

Attach the regulator to the valve on the top or side of the 100-lb. tank, turning the mounting nut or mounting knob clockwise to secure.

Step 4

Connect the hose (or hoses, if you have a two-burner grill) to the valve control stems on the back panel of your grill, using an adjustable wrench.

Step 5

Turn on the gas at the main valve on the tank and listen for any sounds of leaking. If you hear or smell any propane escaping from the connections, shut off the main valve and reconnect the regulator at all points before attempting to use the grill.