BBQ gas bottle checklist before the weekend
A quick checklist to make sure your BBQ gas bottle is ready before friends arrive: level, connection, leaks and a backup plan.
Two days before
Check how much gas is left. Read a compatible sensor, or follow the supplier’s permitted thermal-check method using warm, never boiling, water. For weighing, before moving a portable bottle, turn off the appliance, close the bottle valve and disconnect according to the supplier’s instructions. Keep it upright, use scales rated for its full weight and subtract the tare in matching units, allowing for accessories not included in the tare. Do not lift a connected bottle or attempt to weigh a heavy installed cylinder yourself. If it looks low, swap or refill now, not on the day.
Check the bottle
Look at the test date on the collar, and check for heavy dents, rust or a damaged valve. Keep the bottle upright, outdoors and away from heat.
Check the hose and regulator
Look for cracks, stiffness or kinks in the hose. With the BBQ controls off and bottle valve closed, connect the regulator according to its instructions; some fittings are hand-tightened and others need a suitable spanner.
Leak test
Leak-test outdoors, with the BBQ controls off, only using the manufacturer’s recommended solution and procedure. Growing bubbles indicate a leak: close the valve only if safe and do not use the BBQ. Do not release gas to depressurise or attempt unauthorised repairs. Ask the supplier or a licensed gasfitter about damaged parts or persistent leaks. For an uncontrolled leak, leave and phone for help from a safe distance, away from the leak. Never use a flame to check.
On the day
Open the hood before lighting, and close the bottle valve when you finish cooking.
A WiseTank Bluetooth sensor (A$79) under a steel bottle lets you see the level in the TANK IOT app instead of guessing. It does not suit aluminium or composite bottles.