Let’s face it. Without a propane tank that works, your outdoor grill is just shiny yard art. That’s why it’s important to make sure your grill – and its gas supply – are in good shape and ready for barbecue time.

 Here are tips to keep you cooking along this summer.

 Stake out a safe zone. Choose the right spot for your grill away from structures, deck railings and overhangs, including trees and bushes. Outdoor grills cause an average of 10,600 home fires each year, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Avoid becoming a statistic by using your grill in a well-ventilated area.

 Check for leaks. When your garden hose springs a leak, it’s fairly obvious. Not so with the compact propane tank for your grill. Before lighting a burner, take a moment to check your cylinder for dents, damage, rust or worn areas that can cause gas to trickle out. Also take a few sniffs around the tank and grill area. Propane has an odorant added to it that smells like rotten eggs. If you detect a foul odor, do not ignite anything!

Use a leak detection solution. Lightly spray a simple solution of dish soap and water on the valve and hose to make sure they are leak-free. If you see bubbles around the connections, get the system repaired before you use it again. 

Keep a clean grill. Grease buildup fuels flame flare-ups that can easily get out of control. Avoid grill fires by cleaning your grill before each use. A quick brushing over the grates will help food cook more evenly and even taste better. 

Pay attention. Grill fires happen quickly. That’s why you need to keep an eye on the grill as you cook. If a fire flares up inside your grill, turn off the gas tank immediately. That will cut the fuel supply to the fire. Remember to leave the lid open until the flare-up burns off. 

Avoid a refill run. You aren’t going to drive far on a flat tire. That’s when a spare comes in handy. Same is true with fuel for your grill. With an extra tank on hand, you can make a quick swap and keep on cooking.

 Get what you pay for. Exchange cabinets at the nearby store may be convenient. But oftentimes you pay a flat rate for a less-than-full tank. Make sure you get a full grill tank by refilling cylinders at Franger Gas. We weigh your tank every time, so you know you pay only for the gas in your cylinder. 

Refill your grill tank 5 times with at least 15 pounds at Franger Gas and get up to 20 pounds FREE with your next refill.

Remember – size matters. Get the right tank that fits your needs. Steel cylinders from Franger Gas range in size from 5 to 100 pounds.