Propane properties in severe cold

[beer batter]

Planning on heading out in the permanent this weekend. I know one of my propane tanks (30 pound) is only about 1/3 full. Severe cold has an adverse effect on the flow of propane. I think it gets worse as the tanks empty, is that true? Forecast where I'm going calls for 20 degree below 0. Those are flat out dangerous temps if something were to break down with the propane flow.

Anyone know the properties of propane and what do you do to keep things flowing as best as possible in those cold temps?

[Eric Wettschreck]

I'm not remembering tech school and the actual degrees that propane boils. However, for all of us going out this weekend I seriously advise having a FULL tank. This will keep tank pressure higher and gas flow will be easier. Wrapping a dark blanket or tarp to adsorb light around the tank will help.

Or, against a lot of peoples advice, bring the tank inside and keep it warm.

[Jeremy airjer W]

-44 degrees F.

[Crow Hunter]

It is also a good idea to keep a spare propane regulator and a spare thermocouple for your heater in your perm. If either of these items fail on you in severe weather, you can fix it right then. Good insurance for less than a 20 dollar bill.

[LMITOUT]

My furnace quit last weekend at 2am while sleeping....got cold in there pretty quick with that wind we had. There was no mechanical malfunction though, just ran a tank dry. oops! Switched over to the new tank and zipped up the sleeping bag.

[Zzapp]

Check out this super-informative post from theMille Lacs forum:

Freezing Propane

Thanks for the straight p**p, Federline!