How to empty tank and purge properly

[KatanaPilot]

Last winter on our first outing, the furnace would stop and start repeatedly - which I eventually blamed on a poorly purged propane tank. I assume there was some moisture in the tank and the temps where we were camping were right at freezing - so ice formed and/or the regulator froze up.

Haven't had the issue since, but we haven't camped in cold weather either.

What I would like to do (and should have done immediately), is empty the tank, have it properly evacuated, purged, alcohol added (if needed) and refilled. This way I can eliminate the possibility of moisture being the culprit and ensure that there isn't moisture inside the tank causing corrosion.

I have about 1/4 of a tank left, so my plan is to run the external BBQ grill until it runs out. Any suggestions on how/where to have this tank properly serviced?

Thanks in advance.

[Bama Rambler]

Your best bet is to find an actual propane dealer not just a fill station. They will know what to check.

Hank Hill can fix you right up!

It also could be a bad flow limiter shutting it off. Did you check that out?

[KatanaPilot]

Thanks for the suggestion. I came home the next day, slept all night in the MH and the heater worked fine. The temps were well above freezing so it got me focused on freezing of the regulator or gas line - so I assumed moisture in the system.

It has worked fine since, but we have not camped in near freezing weather since the first outing.

[gasman6674]

Proper Purging Procedure:
Pressurise tank to 15 psig with VAPOR and blow it down 5 times after the 5th time add methanol, rule of thumb 1 gallon per 1000, so figure accordingly.
Most all new cylinders are vacuum purged so they can be filled immediately, unless some moron open the valve to atmosphere.

[KatanaPilot]

Originally Posted by gasman6674

Proper Purging Procedure:
Pressurise tank to 15 psig with VAPOR and blow it down 5 times after the 5th time add methanol, rule of thumb 1 gallon per 1000, so figure accordingly.
Most all new cylinders are vacuum purged so they can be filled immediately, unless some moron open the valve to atmosphere.

Great information, thanks. Now, what type of facility is best equipped and knowledgeable to do this?

[rockfordroo]

I use Ferrellgas for recertifying my tanks. You might try them.

Ferrellgas, Your Propane Gas Company - Find a Ferrellgas Location | America's Premier Propane Provider

[gasman6674]

As stated above most of the majors (Ferrellgas, Amerigas, Suburban) can purge your tank for you. Most cylinder re-fillers wont know what you are talking about.

[KatanaPilot]

Thanks much.