Removing or using propane in a 100 gal tank

[MN Bullhead]

I'm switching over to natural gas but my 100 gallon propane tank is still 30% full. Is there any way I can somehow transfer what is left to 20 lb or 100 lb tanks without blowing myself up lol? Currently I use the 20lb tank to transfer to the small green ones but I'm guessing the 100 gallon tank has a ton more pressure.

I hate to send the tank back to the LP company 30% full of propane I already payed for. Any ideas?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Randy in Maine]

I would call the propane company to see what kind of deal they could give you or just run my BBQ off it (for a long time).

 

[AMCguy]

They have exactly the same pressure. Pressure in the tank (regardless of size) is a function of ambient heat, not tank volume.

All you need is the appropriate transfer hose.

 

[z28toz06]

??????

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_11829_11829

 

[A_Pmech]

The propane company will probably pump out your tank and credit you at the current price if you ask them.

Alternatively, filling kits are available for installation on the liquid tap. MUCH cheaper than paying $20 for a couple gallons of gas when exchanging tanks at the gas station.

 

[spongerich]

You need to find a REALLY big balloon and a match...

 

[NUTTSGT]

Is the 100 gal tank yours or does it belong to the LP company? If it's theirs, I'd ask them about crediting to your acct and use it towards a 20lb tank fills.

 

[MN Bullhead]

Thanks for all the helpful tips (except the balloon one lol!)

I'll have to call and see if they will credit me for use on refills on my 20 pounder.

Just had the new natural gas tankless water heater installed today and I'm down to 25% left in the propane tank.

 

[dirttracker18]

They have exactly the same pressure. Pressure in the tank (regardless of size) is a function of ambient heat, not tank volume.

All you need is the appropriate transfer hose.

I would love to use my large propane tank to refill my BBQ tanks.

Where would one find such a transfer hose? Name of hose?

 

[OccupantRJ]

To refill another tank, you're gonna need to attach to a liqiud port on the 100 gallon tank, assuming one is even available, not a vapor port.

 

[sdowney717]

for a new liquid port, tip tank on its side.
using a sparkless drill motor, air pressure driven, drill a new small hole for a 1/4 inch pipe thread tap close to bottom side of tank.
as gas starts escaping, quickly tap hole and screw in 1/4 pipe thread valve.
make sure valve is open or you will have trouble screwing in the new valve.
Wear gloves as the escaping gas will be very cold and your fingers will freeze.
shut valve and hook up rubber hose you bought from autozone.

 

[sdowney717]

I bet people have done dum and dummer things before.

 

[fishheds]

If it's an upright tank you could get the LP out by inverting the tank onto its collar,but liquid is a lot nastier than vapor and is not DIY stuff.
You'd need a hose with the left hand POL adaptors too.
The gas company may charge a pickup/restock fee to wipe out your refund so,like randy says,

I would call the propane company to see what kind of deal they could give you or just run my BBQ off it (for a long time).

Get to know your Grillmaster 3000 this summer.